Bean & Olive Cafe, Port Alfred, Eastern Cape
Sumptuous pastries, wonderful prices, an amazing setting and excellent service set the Bean and Olive Café apart from other Port Alfred restaurants and cafés.
I chanced upon Bean and Olive Café on a recent visit to Port Alfred. Having had the privilege of eating at a number of eateries, I should say I am not easily impressed, but this gem made a lasting impression on me and my friends.
If you are ever in this part of the world, I can definitely recommend you grab a Beaver Pie at the Bean and Olive in Port Alfred.
On entering the premises, I was immediately captivated by the rustic, yet homely feel of the café. Each of their wooden tables is uniquely made and adds its own character to the overall feel.
An old gin bottle is placed on each table along with the table number – added creativity which was a pleasant touch. Patrons can choose to either sit inside or by their outside area.
What’s on the menu at Bean & Olive?
I asked the waiter what their special was for the day, and he emphatically said that it’s their pies. I was somewhat surprised, but I took his advice and ordered a Lamb and Mint Pie with gravy on the side. As soon as I dug into the pie, I instantaneously realised what all the hype around Beaver Pies was about.
It’s not often that a pie is both filling and extremely tasty. The pastry was perfectly made and the minty lamb flavour was incredible. It is evident that this establishment sources quality ingredients. My friends were equally impressed with their orders.
Still, this establishment is more than just a speciality pie café. Visitors can choose from their selection of pastries, breakfasts, pasta and pub grubs.
A good cup of coffee can be enjoyed here as well. Their bar area, where you can enjoy craft beers and speciality gins, is kept separate from the dining area with the use of a divider.
The Bean and Olive is located along the R72 and is the ideal pit-stop along with the neighbouring petrol station. I would encourage those travelling from Port Elizabeth to East London along the R72 to stop by, sit back and relax at the Bean and Olive.
The Kowie River is also only a few minutes away if you need to stretch your legs.
While chatting with the new owners, Glenn and Linda, it was clear that they have big things planned for this establishment. Having opened the Bean and Olive in May, they took over Beavers in the process.
They understand that their patrons are drawn to the restaurant by their well-renowned Beaver Pies, great prices, friendly service as well as their ideal location. The Bean and Olive team truly believe in quality service – the kind that is served with a smile.
Since we were in Port Alfred for two days, Glenn and Linda invited us to a braai at their house that evening. My impression was of a warm and welcoming couple with a great passion for hospitality.
Needless to say, I am already looking forward to tasting more of their famous pie and will be stopping over at Bean and Olive Café whenever I am on the R72 again.
Top Reasons for Visiting the Bean and Olive Café:
- Top-quality beaver pies
- Perfect location- situated on the R72 and next to a petrol station
- Friendly service
- Family-friendly establishment
The Bean and Olive is located on 78 Southwell Rd, Port Alfred. To make a reservation, call them on 046 624 3733 or email dunlop@tiscali.co.za. Find them on Google Maps by clicking here.
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