Spontaneous Easter Escape at Riverside Sun Wine Cellar
Why This Spot is Perfect for a Last-Minute Getaway
Stuck in a routine? A long weekend is the perfect excuse for a sudden trip. I ditched the usual spots and took a quick shuttle from Southern Sun Gardencourt to Vanderbijlpark to test out a 24-hour Easter holiday vibe at Riverside Sun’s hidden Wine Cellar. The main question: would the food actually slap?
The Vibe: A Secret Hideout
Tucked away near the hotel’s pool area, the Wine Cellar is a quiet escape you might miss if you don’t ask. It’s worth the journey to the Vaal for a more relaxed, intimate feel compared to bustling restaurants.
The Wine Experience: Sip & Learn
A resident sommelier leads the tasting, pairing local wines with each course. The standout? The Stellenzicht chardonnay—a total crowd-pleaser. The wines are carefully matched with the food served at the lapa (that’s an outdoor dining area) right outside the cellar.
Food That Hits Different
Starters: Asian Salad Vibes
Kick-off is an Asian salad—super trendy right now. It comes in a crispy spring roll basket with seared togarashi strips, pepper mix, ginger soya, and a kick of Thai sweet chilli. Fresh and full of flavour.
Mains: Salmon Wins, But Options for All
The menu keeps it simple but executed well:
- For fish lovers: Grilled herb-crusted Norwegian salmon on Pommes Anna (fancy thin potato layers), with string beans and a lemon beurre blanc sauce. My top pick—moist, rich, and perfectly seasoned.
- For red meat fans: A lamb loin chop, cooked to order.
- For plant-based eaters: A duo of lentils with wild mushroom gratin, topped with parmesan. Hearty and satisfying.
Dessert: Sweet Finish
Red wine lovers get a treat: a double-decker mousse layered with meringue pearls and a berry sauce. Sweet, tangy, and not too heavy.
The Not-So-Hot Part
Comfort-food fine dining is huge, but this menu plays it safe. It’s packed with current favourites (like the Asian salad and salmon), but there’s not much room for creative twists. If you’re looking for wild, experimental dishes, this might feel a bit predictable.
How to Book Your Spot
Reservations are a must. Book through their events portal online or call 016 982 7300.
Quick Details
- Where: Riverside Sun Wine Cellar, Vanderbijlpark
- What: Wine pairing dinner in a secluded cellar setting
- Best for: A relaxed date night, small group hangout, or family treat
Final Verdict
For a spontaneous Easter break, Riverside Sun’s Wine Cellar delivers a chill atmosphere, solid wine pairings, and reliable, tasty food—especially that salmon. It’s not the most adventurous menu, but it’s a great excuse to unplug, unwind, and enjoy a proper meal without the fuss. If you need a quick reset from the daily grind, this hidden spot is a solid pick.
• Thango Ntwasa was a guest at the Riverside Sun.
