about

Our story

“The most reliable path to glory is base brute effort.” – Leigh Newman

our journey

In the beginning…

From our popular vegan food stall at Wild Oats Market to our Vegan Kitchen Restaurant & Deli in the Mall, we presented delicious vegan meals to mainstream Knysna.

Our niche enterprise was growing swiftly and required us to reinvent our brand to accommodate all streams of dietary requirements.

Our speciality is delicious home-style cooking for all dietary requirements, with a focus on sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, with each plate lovingly crafted & beautifully presented.

In October 2019  we opened, Oak Leaf Café, our restaurant located in the pristine Belvidere Estate in Knysna.

Oak Leaf Café Team

the Oak Leaf team

the Oak Leaf magic…

What makes us unique

Our people

We are a team of excellent focused individuals all pulling in the same direction. We find the best people and we keep them… we are a happy family.

Our passion

Sandy and I are 2 perfectly synced halves that make a whole… both talented in different areas, both equally passionate about our business and both driven to succeed.

Our ingredients

We put a lot of time and effort into sourcing the best and most ethical quality ingredients and it shines through in every cup of coffee and in every meal that we serve.

Our variety

You are spoiled for choice – we offer an abundance of vegan & vegetarian meals, plenty of chicken and meat dishes, we cater for any food intolerance and our pastries, cakes & treats will make your heart sing!

Love for our community

We have created a warm & welcoming safe place within our community, where our customers feel at home, visit with friends and family, where we know their names and remember their preferences.

our people

Meet the team

Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Leeanne & Sandy

Leeanne & Sandy

Manager | Executive Chef
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Zae, Sous Chef

Zae

Sous Chef
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Vanessa - Chef de Partie

Vanessa

Chef de Partie
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Kyra - Chef de Partie

Kyra

Chef de Partie
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Christelle- Assistant Manageress

Christelle

Assistant Manager
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Nono - Barista

Nono

Barista
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - SaOak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Jade - waitress

Jade

Waitress
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Sania - Front of house

Sania

Front of House
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Christelle - Waitress

Agnes

Cleaner
Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Gordon - Grounds Keeper

Gordon

Grounds Keeper
client love

What our customers say…

“High-quality food & service”

“Always a cheerful welcome at Oak Leaf Cafe. If the sun is shining, wonderful to enjoy their delicious eats outside. Always a cozy reception inside in wintry weather. Consistent high-quality food and service must be attributed to this little gem.”

Peter Unite

“Each visit is a treat”

“Our meals are always fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented – standards are never compromised which is a credit to Sandy and her fabulous team in the kitchen. As an owner-run family business, great meals and friendly service is guaranteed – whether a resident of Belvidere or a visitor to the area.”

Steve, Kate & Hannah Buchanan

“The perfect cappuccino”

“It’s a place where we can enjoy the luxury of a perfect cappuccino served with delectable freshly baked scones and cakes as well as hearty brunches. We salute you Leeanne, Sandy and your wonderful staff for bringing the Oak Leaf Café to Belvidere.”

June Melrose

Oak Leaf Restaurant Knysna Exterior
Steak Frites
Oak Leaf Restaurant Knysna

Join us for brunch!

We invite you to come and experience our hospitality, great coffee and delicious food!

Oak Leaf Knysna Restaurant - Garden Route