Old Austria

Originally started in 1972, the present owners Peter and Francois Raymer relocated the restaurant to its present site in November 1999. Situated in a beautifully restored building which was once a rectory, the attractive facade leads into a series of interleading rooms which have been carefully renovated to preserve the original Victorian character. Tastefully furnished with a few well chosen pieces of furniture to complement the attractive light fittings and high ceilings, the overall effect is elegant and charming. A grand piano and a glamorous bar area add the finishing touches to the upmarket décor.

It is with good reason that Old Austria is one of Port Elizabeth’s favourite restaurants amongst local diners. According to Peter it is quite unique in that the nucleus of the menu has remained unchanged for thirty years! Seafood is certainly the strong point of the menu and Old Austria has an excellent reputation when it comes to serving fresh fish, which Peter buys directly from the boats. For starters try the deliciously creamy Seafood Pancake, or wafer-thin Springbok Carpaccio both of which are firm favourites with regular diners and are guaranteed to impress. Prawns are very popular too, as are the latest additions to the menu – the Seafood Pasta which is a medley of seafood in a Mediterranean sauce served with tagliatelle, or the delicately flavoured Seafood Curry served with fragrant Basmati rice.

On the traditional side, the menu retains favourite Austrian dishes such as the popular Schnitzels, German Pot Roast with red cabbage and spatzle, and the delicious Zuricher Geschnetzeltes – sliced veal and onion with a creamy white sauce served with rosti, all of which are Chef’s recommendations. Sauces are generally rich with plenty of butter and cream, and Peter makes his own stock with no artificial ingredients. The dessert menu offers something for everyone, including an excellent Apple Strudel, and a heavenly homemade ice-cream made with nuts, honey and peanut butter – need we say more?