What Food To Try in Port Elizabeth and Food Prices

Full Breakfast - Volle Ontbyte - A hearty plate featuring eggs, boerewors (spiced sausage), bacon, and baked beans, often served with toast. Locals enjoy this filling meal at breakfast joints or cafés, fueling their day ahead.

Vetkoek - Fat Cake - Deep-fried bread dough stuffed with savory minced meat or sweet fillings like jam, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft inside. You'll find these delights in street markets, perfect for a quick lunch on the go.

Bobotie - South African Casserole - A flavorful dish made with spiced minced meat baked with a custard topping, often served with yellow rice and chutney. It’s a typical dinner choice, especially on Sundays when families gather around the table.

Chakalaka - Spicy Vegetable Relish - A robust mix of peppers, tomatoes, and carrots, spiced with curry, often served as a side or main dish. This local specialty is beloved at braais (barbecues), showcasing vibrant flavors of African cuisine.

Potjie - Three-Layered Stew - A slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables layered in a traditional cast-iron pot, usually enjoyed with rice or bread. You'll notice this is often made during gatherings, requiring patience and care in preparation.

Kingklip - Local Fish Dish - Tender, flaky white fish usually grilled or pan-fried, served with lemon butter sauce. Best enjoyed during the warmer months, especially at beachside restaurants where locals savor the fresh catch of the day.

Mashonisa - Instant Oats with Savory Twist - A local variation serving oats with flavorful meats and spices, combining breakfast and lunch into a warm dish. It's commonly found during the colder months, providing comfort in chilly weather.

Potato Salad - A Family Gathering Staple - Creamy potatoes mixed with local spices and mayonnaise, often served as a side dish during festive occasions. This dish reflects the communal essence of South African dining, bringing families together.

Rooibos Tea - Rooibos (herbal tea) - Naturally caffeine-free, this red herbal tea is made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant, and it's often enjoyed with a splash of milk or a hint of honey. Locals sip it throughout the day, especially during cozy afternoons when the sun dips low, making it a perfect companion for some light reading or a chat.

Ice Cold Fruit Juice - Varsity Juice (fresh local juice) - A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, like mango, guava, and orange, usually served over ice to combat the hot summer days. You’ll often find it at beach stalls, where people relax after a day by the sea, taking it in with a relaxing vibe.

Castle Lager - Castle Lager (local beer) - This crisp lager is brewed using South African malt, hops, and corn, making it easy-drinking and refreshing. It’s a crowd-pleaser at barbecues, especially on weekends when friends gather in the sun—just be careful not to confuse it with the darker brews like Black Label!

Koek & Bietjie - Koek & Bietjie (sweet cookie treat) - A delightful, crumbly biscuit filled with a rich date mixture, these treats are a must-have at family gatherings and festive occasions. They’re often served with tea or coffee during afternoon visits, allowing for a sweet little break from the hustle and bustle.

Melktert - Melktert (milk tart) - A delicious dessert made from a creamy milk-based filling in a crisp pastry shell, often sprinkled with cinnamon. Typically enjoyed during family celebrations or casual dinners alike, it represents the warmth of local flavors; word of warning: don’t be surprised if you want seconds!