Pear Tree eatery is quirky-cool: vegans + vegetarians will love it

Pear Tree is filled with unexpected surprises, from vegan delights to signature kombucha cocktails 

Last updated: Tuesday, 9 May 2023

On the strip of the Hermanus Waterfront lies a little bistro, blending in between other cafes and shops. Beyond the cobblestone pathway and spekboom, you’ll discover a treasure trove of inventive dishes, from brisket tacos to a pear panna cotta dessert. Pear Tree serves a remarkable range of curious and healthy dishes, all in a casual fine dining style. Plus, it has an excellent view overlooking Walker Bay.  

There’s a wonderful, connected, friendly vibe at this restaurant. Image: Pear Tree 

FIND OUT HOW IT GOT ITS NAME

When chef and restaurateur Petri Hendriksz found work in the UK, he also found colleagues who simply couldn’t pronounce his name. They nicknamed him “Pear Tree”.

When he came back to South Africa and found the perfect venue to build his dream restaurant in Hermanus, the moniker was the perfect fit. And so, in 2015, Pear Tree was born. He took the theme even further with his signature dessert, the Pear Panna Cotta.

All Petri’s restaurants have an interesting story, including his other restaurant, Hermanus favourite and steampunk steakhouse, Char’d Grill & Wine Bar. 

Pear Tree’s famous Pear Panna Cotta dessert. Image: Pear Tree 

EAT FOOD THAT LOOKS LIKE ART 

The menu is carefully curated to accommodate every guest – whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, a major meat lover or just plain picky. The small plates range from sushi calamari (salmon sushi stuffed in a calamari) and chicken lollipops to sticky rice balls and brisket tacos, which are perfect for sharing. You’ll also find Poke Bowls with hake, salmon or burnt cauliflower, sticky pork belly ribs, nacho burgers and and and…

Pear Tree has a variety of dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options. Image: Pear Tree 

Perhaps the most impressive of all are the MasterChef-level desserts – that’s how good these look. The Big Bang, made with charcoal aquafaba (liquid from chickpeas), coconut choc brownie and citrus ice cream, is a real piece of art, and requires some work, too. To crack it open, you have to pick it up and drop it on the plate and watch it splatter. Plus, it’s entirely vegan.

The brownie dish is 100% vegan. Image: Pear Tree

WINE + DINE WHILE WHALE WATCHING

Hermanus is South Africa’s whale-watching capital. The outside seating at Pear Tree is ideal for looking out over the bay, where you’re almost certain to see whales in season. Treat yourself to oysters topped with cucumber margarita snow or try the other fresh seafood, along with a glass of bubbly.

You can sit inside or out, where there are views of the sea and the vibe is great. Image: Pear Tree 

TASTE LOCAL GIN AND CRAFT BEER

The bar menu is a great collection, with a selective gin, beer, and the wine list that features hidden gems, such as Spookfontein wine from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Try a local brew on tap, like the popular Old Harbour Lager. Pear Tree’s cocktails and mocktails come with a twist; some are based on fresh kombucha, super refreshing and great for gut health.

The wine and cocktail menu focuses on using ingredients from local craft producers. Image: Pear Tree 

WHEN + WHERE TO GO  

Pear Tree Bistro is open: Daily from 10.30am - 9pm
Find them: Shop 2, Hermanus Waterfront
Contact them on: 028 313 1224, info@pear-tree.co.za, Instagram: @peartreehermanus

By Lara van Zyl

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DISCOVER MORE IN HERMANUS

Check out another Hermanus favourite, Char’d Grill.

Have the best beach day at Milk on the Beach.

Or pop down to the colourful Waffle Shack.

Discover Cape Town’s best healthy eateries. 

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