By Prashirwin Naidu

Food, food, and more food — that was all on my mind as we made our way to the much-loved Silver Orange Bistro. Tucked away on the historic Altyd Mooi citrus farm in Hartbeespoort, this restaurant has been a firm favourite since 2004. Over the years, it has built a reputation as a culinary destination, offering an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere where farm-fresh ingredients meet South African creativity. From the moment you arrive, surrounded by citrus groves and country charm, you know you’re in for something special.

I arrived hungry, and the thought of a hearty meal had me almost giddy. The set menu, though simple at first glance, carried layers of flavour that surprised and delighted. The starter was a bulgar wheat salad, colourful with fresh vegetables. Each forkful was crisp and bright, lifted with a hint of lemon. It felt light, almost like a song to the soul — a gentle prelude to what was still to come.

The main course was a perfectly prepared beef steak, seared on the outside and juicy within. Lightly salted to allow the natural flavour to shine, it was paired with a garnish of fresh rocket for colour and peppery bite. The star of the plate, however, was the mushroom sauce — creamy, rich and indulgent, wrapping around the steak and elevating it into true comfort food.

By dessert, I was caught between longing and limitation. The famed sorbet scoops
promised the perfect refreshing finale, but my full stomach forced me to bow out. Instead, I ended with a calming cup of tea, imagining the cool, citrus-kissed sweetness of what I had missed.

Dining at Silver Orange Bistro, I left both satisfied and smiling. This isn’t just a
restaurant; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last bite. Rooted in family
passion and carried forward with flair, it has rightly become a Hartbeespoort institution. Silver Orange, I’ll be back.