African Relish - Recreational Cooking School, Restaurant, Accommodation & Venue in Prince Albert, Great Karoo, Western Cape

African Relish Cooking School with its cottages was established in Prince Albert, Great Karoo, South Africa twelve years ago as a recreational cooking school tourism product for culinary travellers and food lovers. With the surge in culinary tourism, we believe that South Africa, with all it has to offer in the realm of food culture and traditional cuisine, should also provide an original foodie experience for both the local and international market. The culinary hub of African Relish now offers a well stocked delicatessen and restaurant. The school is a member of the WFTA (World Food Tourism Association).

African Relish is the love child of Cape Town entrepreneurs Philip and Lisa Key. Their love of food and travel found its expression in a Karoo cooking school that explores the culinary and cultural heritage of South Africa. Set in the beautiful foodie destination of Prince Albert, their passion-project attracts local and international guests to experience their signature brand of hospitality and tourism.

We draw on the rich and diverse local knowledge founded on hundreds of years of food traditions and explore the edible landscape. Our courses include a varied and exciting programme of cultural and leisure activities in and around Prince Albert. The entire area is steeped in history and is one of the most significant archaeological and paleontological regions in the world. Guests will take part in fruit or vegetable pickling and preserving, cheese making, bread baking, sausage making and all that is fun and fascinating in the culinary experience.

Our popular cookbook is the ultimate take-home treat for visitors to the African Relish Cooking School. For just R275, it is a wonderful memento with food stories and memories from Prince Albert.

The book is filled with the very best tried and tested Karoo recipes from a decade in the African Relish kitchen. Click HERE to order your copy or send it as a gift.

African Relish Cooking Courses 

African Relish runs two basic cooking course types throughout the year. The Anytime cooking class such as Karoo Classics or Vegetarian are half or full day classes. Most classes are easy to book at short notice. 

Scheduled courses fall on particular dates along with Masterclass weekends with invited chefs such as Chris Erasmus, Nina Timm and Gordon Wright. Classes can also be part of longer culinary and special interest retreats like our popular Cycle tour or Yoga retreat.

All classes use local and seasonal produce of the area. Recently introduced is the Foodie Tour in our bright yellow Tuk Tuk. Join a small group for a friendly and exclusive guided tour of the artisanal food producers, to meet the makers and gather produce for a class.

African Relish Restaurant

The Chef’s Café is open from Tuesday to Saturday 09:00 – 21:00. Monday 09:00 – 16:00. We offer simple, fresh meals with seasonal and local ingredients. Our verandah is the best place in Prince Albert to enjoy early morning coffee, cake and easy breakfast. We offer a healthy lunch option and wholesome menu for dinner. The day can end sipping cocktails or a craft beer. We are fully licensed.

Guests can enjoy the enclosed verandah with views of the garden and olive grove. The seasonal menu includes Karoo lamb or venison, pasta dishes, salads with fresh figs, pomegranates and local vegetables. There are even some cheeky, indulgent desserts.

The Deli at African Relish

Come and browse the shelves of the newly opened deli. Specialised teas, Terbodore coffee, a selection of healthy pastas, breads, butters, preserves and condiments plus our own bottled sauces and relishes along with sweets and wine. Products such as Orbs, Savon soap, Masterstock, Fynbos Fine Foods, Nomu and Pasta Regalo. Ask about our gift bags and vouchers.

Opening times are for the African Relish Deli, Monday 09:00 to 16:00. Tuesday to Saturday 09:00 to 21:00.

Accommodation at African Relish

Accommodation is provided in our own and select Prince Albert guesthouses that offer restful bedrooms, air-conditioning, heating and spacious garden privacy. Our accommodation consists of handpicked and renovated cottages in this charming Karoo town. With traditional irrigation canals running along the streets, this combination of well-appointed and comfortable living space coupled with the sound of trickling water is a haven in which to unwind. The swimming pool at the main venue is available for guests.

Bedding configurations can be double or single. All cottages have self-catering facilities for the times when this is preferable. * Please enquire for further details.

• Wedding Venues:  African Relish offers space for an intimate wedding where food is the highlight of the function. Our cooking school team and chef will plan a special menu for your special day.

• Conference Venues: We can accommodate up to 30 pax for a conference facility plus cater for all meals and accommodation.

• Family friendly: We do cater for babies and children as well as pets by special arrangement.

• Romantic: Come and enjoy a romantic cooking class for 2 in our honeymoon suite for that special romantic getaway.

Please contact the team at African Relish directly for bookings & enquiries.

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