Picture: Supplied
Dining out with a toddler is no small feat. As parents, we quickly learn that not all restaurants are designed with families in mind. That’s why family-friendly establishments are a game-changer when you have a little one in tow.
As a seafood lover, I truly appreciate that Ocean Basket is one of those rare gems—a place where you can enjoy quality seafood in a relaxed, welcoming environment without feeling like your child is an inconvenience.
I recently dined at Ocean Basket in Blouberg, one of the best locations to enjoy a meal with a stunning backdrop of the ocean and Table Mountain. The experience was even more special because I was with my husband and our almost two-year-old daughter. From the moment we arrived, I appreciated the restaurant’s warm and casual atmosphere. The staff was accommodating, helping us settle in comfortably—a huge plus when dining with a toddler who has a mind of her own.
Of course, the highlight of the evening was the food. I indulged in the Perfect Catch Platter, a generous spread featuring a selection of seafood cooked to perfection. From the tender calamari to the juicy prawns and perfectly grilled fish, every bite was fresh and flavorful. The portion size was just right for sharing, making it an ideal family meal for R299. However, I must confess—I didn’t share! Instead, I opted to top up my prawns to satisfy my craving fully.
My husband, on the other hand, is a die-hard fan of Kingklip, so that was his go-to meal. His dish was beautifully grilled and with a choice of being served with chips, rice, or a side salad, he went with chips at a price of R175. The way he finished his meal in no time was proof that it hit the spot perfectly.
Ocean Basket’s sushi menu is another highlight, especially for a sushi lover like me. After I gave birth, sushi was one of the first meals I requested—just to show how high my love for it ranks! This time, I went with the Two-Way Platter, which includes:
- 3 pieces of salmon roses
- 6 pieces of creamy prawn futomaki
- 8 pieces of rainbow rolls
- 8 pieces of fried prawn California rolls
Priced at R335, it was worth every bite. Their sushi imagery alone is enough to make any seafood lover’s mouth water, but the actual experience exceeded expectations. The sushi was fresh, beautifully presented, and had just the right balance of flavors. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a casual fan, there’s something for everyone.
As parents, we’re always on the lookout for restaurants where we don’t have to choose between great food and a kid-friendly experience. Ocean Basket strikes that balance effortlessly, and the best part is that we don’t have to dig deep into our pockets to enjoy a good meal.
The informal yet lively setting means we don’t feel pressured to keep our toddler unnaturally quiet, and the service is swift enough to prevent restless little ones from losing patience.
Also see: ‘My jaw is still on the floor’ – Mzansi reacts to pantsula dancers using man as skipping rope
