Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa
1. Chicken Sosatie
Grilled marinated chicken pieces on skewers, a traditional South African braai (barbecue) favorite. Try it at The Settlers Monument.
- Authentic Experience: Experience a taste of traditional South African cuisine
- Unique Flavor Profile: Savor the combination of spices and flavors unique to Chicken Sosatie
- Great for Socializing: Ideal for sharing with friends or family while enjoying a braai gathering
2. Xhosa Bread (Injelelo)
Fluffy maize meal bread, a staple food in Xhosa culture. Visit the local Xhosa village for an authentic experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about the Xhosa culture through their traditional food
- Tasty and Filling: Enjoy the hearty, savory flavor of Injelelo
- Shared Meal: Sharing bread is a symbol of unity and friendship among the Xhosa people
3. Bunny Chow
A Durban-style fast food dish consisting of half a loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with curry. Find it at The Daily Dish.
- Spicy Delight: Experience the unique blend of spices in Bunny Chow
- Convenient Meal: Ideal for quick, filling meal on-the-go
- Culinary Heritage: Explore the history and evolution of this South African street food
4. Snoek on the Braai
Grilled Cape Snoek fish, a local delicacy. Visit Beaconhills Beach for the perfect setting.
- Seaside Experience: Savor the freshness of Snoek on the beach
- Cooked to Perfection: Enjoy the tender, smoky flavor of the grilled fish
- Seafood Delight: Indulge in a classic South African seafood dish
5. Fish and Chips at the Beach
Traditional British-style fish and chips on East London's beaches. Enjoy it at Kasiekie's.
- Beachside Dining: Relax and unwind with a tasty meal by the sea
- Classic Comfort Food: Savor the classic flavors of fish and chips
- Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy friendly service with a warm, inviting environment
6. Coconut Prawns at The Rafters
Succulent prawns in a creamy coconut sauce. Enjoy them at the charming Rafters Restaurant.
- Unique Dish: Experience the combination of sweet and spicy flavors
- Romantic Atmosphere: Ideal for a romantic dinner or special occasion
- Creative Cuisine: Indulge in innovative South African fusion dishes
7. Bobotie Pie at The Kitchen
A traditional spiced meat pie with a creamy custard topping. Enjoy it at The Kitchen Restaurant.
- Authentic Taste: Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of Bobotie
- Cozy Environment: Enjoy a warm, welcoming dining experience
- Comfort Food: Ideal for a comforting, filling meal
8. Lamb Shawarma at Shish-Kebab
Tender lamb marinated in Middle Eastern spices. Try it at Shish-Kebab Restaurant.
- Exotic Flavor: Experience the exotic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine
- Quick Meal Option: Ideal for a quick, satisfying meal
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience in East London
9. Peri-Peri Chicken at Nando's
Spicy grilled chicken marinated in a unique blend of African spices. Visit Nando's for the perfect meal.
- Spicy Adventure: Experience the fiery heat and tangy flavors of Peri-Peri
- Fast Casual Dining: Ideal for a quick, casual dining experience
- Variety of Flavors: Customize your Peri-Peri chicken with various levels of spiciness
10. Malay Curry at The Curry Shack
Rich and flavorful curries inspired by Malay cuisine. Enjoy it at The Curry Shack.
- Cultural Cuisine: Experience the rich flavors of Malay cuisine
- Comforting Meal: Ideal for a comforting, filling meal
- Wide Variety: Choose from various curries to suit your taste preferences
11. Ribs at The Pig and Whistle
Tender pork ribs smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce. Enjoy them at The Pig and Whistle.
- Satisfying Meal: Ideal for a hearty, filling meal
- Great Atmosphere: Enjoy the lively, welcoming atmosphere of The Pig and Whistle
- Barbecue Delight: Experience the smoky flavor of barbecued ribs
12. Boerewors Roll at The Boat House
A traditional South African sausage rolled in a warm roll with sauce. Enjoy it at The Boat House.
- Traditional Taste: Experience the rich, savory flavors of Boerewors
- Quick Meal Option: Ideal for a quick, satisfying meal
- Scenic Setting: Enjoy the picturesque setting of The Boat House by the water
13. Sushi at Sushi King
Fresh sushi rolls made with local and imported ingredients. Visit Sushi King for the perfect seafood dish.
- Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the freshness of locally-sourced seafood
- Creative Dishes: Indulge in innovative sushi rolls and dishes
- Casual Dining: Ideal for a relaxed, casual dining experience
14. Ital Vegetarian at I-Thrive
Nutritious vegetarian dishes inspired by the Rastafari movement. Visit I-Thrive for a healthy meal.
- Healthy Option: Enjoy a nutrient-rich, vegetarian meal
- Unique Cuisine: Experience the flavors and culinary traditions of the Rastafari movement
- Conscious Dining: Support sustainable, conscious dining practices
15. Breakfast at The Coffee Shack
A hearty breakfast with a variety of options. Visit The Coffee Shack for the perfect start to your day.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for a comforting, filling breakfast
- Wide Variety: Choose from various breakfast options to suit your taste preferences
- Friendly Service: Enjoy friendly, welcoming service at The Coffee Shack