Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) offers a delightful and diverse buffet dining scene, with a strong focus on coastal flavours and family-friendly, value-for-money experiences. The city’s buffet options range from elegant hotel settings with magnificent ocean views to cozy, down-to-earth local favourites . Whether you are looking for an extensive breakfast spread, a traditional Sunday lunch carvery, or an Italian-inspired feast, Port Elizabeth’s buffet restaurants provide generous portions and welcoming atmospheres for all occasions.
Top 25 Buffet Restaurants in Port Elizabeth
1. The Bayside Pantry
Located inside the luxurious Boardwalk Hotel and Casino, The Bayside Pantry is a top-tier buffet restaurant offering an incredible spread of over 50 different dishes. The menu features a wide variety of South African favourites including meat, salads, fish dishes, and pasta, with a special Wednesday buffet priced at R195 including drinks and dessert, and a Sunday spread ranging from R300 to R350. Guests praise the amazing food selection, tasty salads, and great desserts, though some have noted occasional inconsistency in food quality and service.
2. The Crest Restaurant
Situated at The Beach Hotel, The Crest Restaurant offers a traditional dining experience with a sumptuous breakfast buffet served daily and tantalizing carvery buffets for dinner . Guests can enjoy a different menu selection every day, with high-quality cuisine served in an elegant setting featuring luxurious furnishings, classical music, and magnificent ocean views . The restaurant is also known for its delicious curry dishes and traditional Sunday lunches, with many praising the wonderful food and lovely atmosphere .
3. Villa Borghese Restaurant
Located in the heart of Port Elizabeth, Villa Borghese is a down-to-earth restaurant specializing in Italian cuisine and offering a popular Sunday buffet priced at R139 per person. The restaurant can seat approximately 80 people inside with an additional 80 in the function area near the indoor swimming pool, featuring a quaint bar area and value-for-money dining. Guests appreciate the friendly service and great food options for events, though some reviewers have raised concerns about cleanliness and occasional off-tasting dishes.
4. Tabú Grill Bar and Lounge
Located inside the Radisson Hotel, Tabú Grill offers a luxurious buffet experience with a grasping ocean view that is perfect for a moment of bonding with friends and family. The breakfast buffet is inspired by local and seasonal ingredients, providing a delicious and fresh start to the day while gazing at the stunning beachfront scenery. The location is ideal for those seeking both quality dining and beautiful coastal views.
5. Mike’s Kitchen
Connected to the Garden Court Kings Beach hotel, Mike’s Kitchen is renowned for its succulent grill menu and family-friendly dining with beautiful views towards Algoa Bay. The restaurant offers a tempting choice of both à la carte and buffet options, featuring famous schnitzels, steaks, seafood, and salads for memorable dining experiences. Open daily from 09h00 to 23h00, it is a great choice for families and groups looking for a hearty meal.
6. Lighthouse Restaurant
Located on the ground floor of Garden Court Kings Beach, the Lighthouse Restaurant serves a delicious buffet breakfast every morning with a selection of Continental and hot breakfast favourites. The breakfast buffet includes Full English options and a variety of hot and cold dishes, providing the perfect way to start the day before exploring the city. Open weekdays from 06h30 to 10h00 and weekends from 07h00 to 11h00, it offers excellent value for hotel guests and visitors alike.
7. Isango Gate
Isango Gate offers a serene and modern buffet setting with African Zen gardens, an open deck area, and a calming marine touch that creates a perfect refuge from the busy city. The restaurant features modern lines and style with earth tones, providing a unique dining atmosphere that combines relaxation with culinary enjoyment. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a tranquil dining experience.
8. Col’s Family Café and Play Centre
Located in the Moffett On Main Lifestyle Centre, Col’s Family Café is a locally owned, proudly South African brand offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere ideal for families with children . The café features a fantastic play area for kids and serves a variety of affordable, delicious meals with amazing service from friendly, attentive staff. With comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a fully licensed bar, it is a top choice for families looking for a relaxed meal.
9. Hello! It’s Me
Located at Boardwalk Mall in Summerstrand, Hello! It’s Me offers a great dining experience with delicious burgers, tapas, and kiddies’ pizza, along with tasty vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant boasts a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere with stunning beach views, making it the perfect spot for a family outing or casual meal. The amazing drinks and coffee options cater to everyone, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
10. Something Good Roadhouse
Situated on Marine Drive in Summerstrand, Something Good Roadhouse is a family-friendly spot known for its legendary burgers and shakes, with a deck offering stunning ocean views and regular live music . The restaurant serves delicious breakfast options and hearty meals including chicken schnitzel, wings and ribs combos, and tasty bagels, with a fun play area to keep children entertained . It is a must-visit for those seeking great food by the beach.
11. Grass Roof
Located at the corner of Seaview Road and Heron Road, Grass Roof is a cozy gem offering amazing fresh food, delicious smoothies, and perfect coffee in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant features a beautiful garden where guests can take a leisurely stroll or let the kids play, with a shop stocked with locally sourced goodies and vegetables growing on site . It is a place that celebrates community and good times with stunning views.
12. Ginger The Restaurant
Ginger is a stylish beachfront restaurant in Port Elizabeth offering a sophisticated dining experience with a menu influenced by Cape flavours. The restaurant features an open kitchen and a terrace that provides an airy atmosphere for diners, with creative dishes like camomile-cured salmon and beetroot and chocolate risotto . While the food and atmosphere are excellent, some guests have noted that service could be improved to match the restaurant’s high-end status.
13. Savages Fine Food
Savages Fine Food is a popular establishment in Port Elizabeth known for its commitment to keeping both staff and customers happy, with a menu that offers a variety of fresh and delicious options . The restaurant takes pride in the architectural history of the city and provides a sophisticated setting for breakfast or a satisfying lunch . It is a great choice for those seeking quality dining in an elegant atmosphere.
14. De Kelder
De Kelder is an old-school favourite known for its generous platters, tender calamari, and classic grilled line fish, offering a taste of traditional South African seafood dining. The restaurant is a reliable choice for those seeking classic seafood dishes in a comfortable setting. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
15. Coachman on the Bay
Coachman on the Bay is another old-school favourite offering generous seafood platters and classic grilled line fish, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant provides a nostalgic dining experience with reliable service and delicious coastal flavours. It is a great option for those seeking traditional seafood dining.
16. Ginger The Restaurant
Ginger is a stylish beachfront restaurant in Port Elizabeth offering a sophisticated dining experience with a menu influenced by Cape flavours. The restaurant features an open kitchen and a terrace that provides an airy atmosphere for diners, with creative dishes like camomile-cured salmon and beetroot and chocolate risotto. While the food and atmosphere are excellent, some guests have noted that service could be improved to match the restaurant’s high-end status.
17. Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club
The Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club offers a unique dining experience with harbour views, serving hake and chips, mussels, and shareable mixed platters in a stunning waterfront setting. The restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy fresh seafood while watching boats slide by. It is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
18. Chartroom Restaurant
Chartroom Restaurant is located near the harbour and offers a delightful dining experience with clifftop sunsets and a menu featuring hake and chips, mussels, and shareable mixed platters. The restaurant provides a perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends and family. The fresh seafood and stunning views make it a popular choice.
19. Barnacles Restaurant
Barnacles Restaurant offers a harbour dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood, including hake and chips, mussels, and shareable mixed platters. The restaurant provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying a coastal meal. It is a reliable choice for those seeking fresh seafood.
20. Shanna’s Portuguese Restaurant
Shanna’s Portuguese Restaurant offers authentic Peri-peri heat and Portuguese comfort food, from prawn combos to grilled calamari and crowd-pleasing mains. The restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes and warm hospitality, providing a taste of Portugal in Port Elizabeth . It is a must-visit for those seeking bold, spicy flavours.
21. Angelos Café at Shark Rock
Located at Shark Rock Pier in Summerstrand, Angelos Café offers a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean, serving tender ribs, juicy T-bone steak, pasta, and delicious shakes. The restaurant provides great value for money despite its prime location, with food that is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour . It is a great choice for families and couples.
22. Oceans 11
Oceans 11 is a seafood sit-down restaurant located on 6th Avenue in Walmer, offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes in a comfortable dining setting. The restaurant provides a reliable option for those seeking quality seafood in Port Elizabeth. It is a popular choice for seafood enthusiasts.
23. Humewood Hotel
The Humewood Hotel features two Halaal restaurants: The Humewood Bistro and Wok n’ Sushi, located at 33 Beach Road in Humewood, offering diverse dining options for guests and visitors. The restaurants provide a variety of cuisines including Asian-inspired dishes and traditional bistro fare. It is an excellent option for those seeking Halaal dining.
24. La Fiesta
La Fiesta is a popular spot in Port Elizabeth known for its friendly service and efficient food preparation, offering a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at great prices. The menu features fantastic Halaal food with ample seating including balcony seating with nice beach views, and the jumbo cheeseburger is highly recommended. While the place could be cleaner, the food is iconic in the local Halaal food industry.
25. Blue Waters Café
Blue Waters Café offers beachfront dining with sunset views and refined seafood plates like kingklip, prawns, and risotto, providing a polished dining experience by the sea. The café is part of the Blue Waters Hotel complex and offers a variety of fresh seafood options in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting . It is a great choice for those seeking a memorable seafood meal.
Comparison Table
| No | Restaurant Name | Location | Cuisine Type | Price Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Bayside Pantry | Boardwalk Hotel | International, South African | R195–R350 | Extensive spread, specials, over 50 dishes |
| 2 | The Crest Restaurant | The Beach Hotel | Carvery, Curry, Breakfast | Varies | Magnificent ocean views, daily menu changes |
| 3 | Villa Borghese Restaurant | Gqeberha Central | Italian | R139 (Sunday) | Popular Sunday buffet, value for money |
| 4 | Tabú Grill | Radisson Hotel | Breakfast Buffet | Varies | Luxurious setting, ocean views |
| 5 | Mike’s Kitchen | Garden Court Kings Beach | Grill, Seafood, Buffet | Varies | Family-friendly, famous schnitzels and steaks |
| 6 | Lighthouse Restaurant | Garden Court Kings Beach | Breakfast Buffet | Varies | Continental and hot breakfast favourites |
| 7 | Isango Gate | Port Elizabeth | African, Modern | Varies | Serene setting, African Zen gardens |
| 8 | Col’s Family Café | Moffett On Main | South African | Varies | Play area for kids, affordable meals |
| 9 | Hello! It’s Me | Boardwalk Mall | Burgers, Tapas, Vegetarian | Varies | Beach views, relaxed vibrant atmosphere |
| 10 | Something Good Roadhouse | Summerstrand | Burgers, Shakes, Breakfast | Varies | Ocean views, live music, play area |
| 11 | Grass Roof | Lovemore Park | Breakfast, Coffee, Smoothies | Varies | Fresh food, beautiful garden setting |
| 12 | Ginger The Restaurant | Beachfront | Seafood, Cape Flavours | Varies | Stylish, fine dining, creative dishes |
| 13 | Savages Fine Food | Port Elizabeth | Contemporary | Varies | Sophisticated, fresh options |
| 14 | De Kelder | Port Elizabeth | Seafood | Varies | Old-school favourite, generous platters |
| 15 | Coachman on the Bay | Port Elizabeth | Seafood | Varies | Classic grilled line fish, reliable choice |
| 16 | Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club | Harbour | Seafood | Varies | Harbour views, shareable platters |
| 17 | Chartroom Restaurant | Harbour | Seafood | Varies | Clifftop sunsets, fresh seafood |
| 18 | Barnacles Restaurant | Harbour | Seafood | Varies | Relaxed atmosphere, harbour dining |
| 19 | Shanna’s Portuguese Restaurant | Port Elizabeth | Portuguese | Varies | Peri-peri heat, Portuguese comfort food |
| 20 | Angelos Café | Shark Rock Pier | Seafood, Steaks | Varies | Pier views, affordable, family-friendly |
| 21 | Oceans 11 | Walmer | Seafood | Varies | Comfortable dining, seafood focus |
| 22 | Humewood Hotel | Humewood | Halaal, Asian, Bistro | Varies | Two Halaal restaurants on site |
| 23 | La Fiesta | Humewood | Halaal | Varies | Friendly service, beach views |
| 24 | Blue Waters Café | Beachfront | Seafood | Varies | Polished dining, sunset views |
Tips for Choosing a Buffet
Start by reading recent reviews, as customer experiences with food quality and service can vary significantly among these restaurants.
For a premium, extensive buffet experience, The Bayside Pantry offers over 50 dishes with specials on Wednesdays and Sundays.
For a traditional Sunday lunch, Villa Borghese and The Crest are popular local favourites with great value. Consider the atmosphere you are looking for; Tabú Grill and The Crest offer stunning ocean views, while Villa Borghese provides a more intimate, family-style setting.
Always call ahead for popular spots, especially on Sundays, as they can be busy with large groups and families.
Closing
Port Elizabeth offers a surprising variety of buffet dining experiences, from world-class hotel spreads like The Bayside Pantry to cozy local gems like Villa Borghese and Mike’s Kitchen. The city’s coastal location ensures fresh seafood features prominently in many buffets, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent destination for relaxed meals with loved ones.
By doing a little research and following the tips above, you can easily find a buffet that suits your taste and budget, ensuring a memorable dining experience in this beautiful coastal city. Note that all information, including prices and opening hours, is subject to change, so it is essential to verify current details directly with each restaurant.