Fodor's Expert Review Gramadoelas at the Market Theatre

Crossing the threshold here is like stepping into a strange old museum: African artifacts and mirrors litter the huge room. Established in 1967, Gramadoelas has hosted an impressive list of guests including Nelson Mandela, Elton John, the Queen of England, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and many others. The restaurant specializes in South African fare, but does have a few dishes from farther north in the continent. Try umngqusho (beans and whole corn) or, if you're feeling adventurous, mogodu (unbleached ox tripe) or masonja (mopane worms, or large, edible caterpillars). Traditional Cape Malay dishes include lamb bredie (lamb casserole in a tomato sauce) and bobotie (a spicy casserole of minced lamb with savory custard topping). Meat lovers will like the selection of game meats such as the kudu (antelope) panfried with dried fruit and spices. The popular buffet is available Tues.–Sat. evenings for R250.