If you’ve ever made the trip from Cape Town to Elgin in the Overberg, chances are you stopped off at Peregrine Farm Stall for a leg stretch and to stock up on farm-fresh bread, pastries, jams and other home-made treats.
This evergreen pit stop has been in business for more than 50 years, but its half-century celebrations were cut short last year when a fire seriously damaged its long-standing restaurant, which was subsequently closed.
It’s been nearly a year since that sad night, but Overbergers and N2 road-trippers will be happy to hear that the farm stall’s restaurant is back in business (insert appropriate phoenix metaphor here).
‘The fire was a devastating blow, but it gave us an opportunity to take a look at where we were and prepare to take Peregrine into the next 50 years,’ says co-owner Justin Burls. ‘We’ve drawn on the amazing design and craftsmanship talent in the area to completely reinvent the space, and we’re thrilled with the outcome.’
The reinvented space is something like a meeting of an old-school apple barn and 21st century design. The spruce-and-glass structure combines with a screed floor, Hoi P’loy lighting and chalkboard menus to take this previously homely haunt from bumpkin to pumpin’.
You’ll still find old-fashioned favourites on the menu, from burgers and toasties to the classic Peregrine venison pie (with recipes dating back decades), but these now find themselves alongside hipster delights such as Origin coffee and Everson’s Cider.
Completing the farm feel is the collection of vintage tractors in the parking area, perfect for a farm-themed photo op.
OF NOTE
Where N2 highway between Grabouw and Elgin
Trading hours The farm stall is open from 7:30 am to 6 pm, but please note that the café’s kitchen closes at 5 pm.
Contact +27 21 848 9011, www.peregrinefarmstall.co.za
Photography Daniela Zondagh