Almost Orange Restaurant

The purpose of a restaurant review is simple. All you need to know, is wether it is worth your money and time. This makes this particular review an easy one to write. The answer is simple. Go.

Silver Orange Bistro is situated just around the corner from the Hartebeespoort Dam. A nice and easy drive from Johannesburg, over some hills, scenic for us Joburgers. Both Silver Orange Bistro and Almost Orange are on an orange orchard, the family farm of chef Leon Nel. It is easy to imagine yourself somewhere in Europe or just ‘elsewhere’ whilst eating surrounded by these gorgeous groves. The Nels moved onto the farm 49 years ago. Interestingly Leon’s grandmother ran the Nel Dairy in Linden, Johannesburg, delivering milk in bottles to Johannesburg suburbs. Seeing the Nel milk bottle on display is very nostalgic for those of us who grew up in the 70’s and 80’s.

The Bistro is open all week, and serves beautifully presented but hearty food, set in a Portuguese inspired veranda when warm, or farm antiques and a fireplace for winters.

Almost Orange is a few metres away amongst the orange trees. Most of the tables are outside under the trees. So relaxing. Make an afternoon of it. It is perfect for long tables of friends, ready to spend a few hours catching up. There is however a no child policy, to keep things relaxed. Platters laden with food are available, and it varies from Mediterranean, to fish and cured meats. For Leon it is important to know where his produce comes from, and having had the Bistro for 16 years, he has built up a suppliers list for only the finest fish, oysters, Italian style salamis, hams and other cured meat. The bread, always a test for a restaurant, is divine.

The wine list is award winning. The Portuguese wines are especially delicious. Highly recommended. There is is also an extensive selections of gins, perfect for weekend lunches.

Bookings are essential, Almost Orange is only open on the weekends, and generally fully booked.

For more details look at their website: www.silverorangebistro.co.za

Chef and Owner Leon Nel