The Hartbeespoort farm, which belonged to Voortrekker Andries Pretorius is still a wonderous place 5 generations later. Today, Kleine Rijke is a place where creativity blooms and with its latest addition – a beautiful restaurant – it’s a day’s outing worth adding to your bucket list.
Kleine Rijke recently treated my family and I to a lovely brunch – a day ahead of their official opening last week – and there are so many reasons why I could recommend this lovely eatery and events venue. Whether you’re looking for an alternative working space, a spot for you and your friend’s long awaited coffee date, a couple’s brunch or a family lunch, the historic, yet very trendy destination is set to impress.
It’s in the (wooden) details
Kleine Rijke is famous for its beautiful wooden details, all done by 5th generation owner, Jasmyn Krynauw’s husband, David Krynauw. His talent and craftsmanship are something to be reckoned with; something you need to see for yourself. And, of course, it also offers brilliant photo opportunities for those always on the hunt for aesthetic, Instagrammable destinations.
The tables, chairs, couches, door and window frames, toilet roll holders, mirror frames and more are made by David Krynauw and makes for a unique, aesthetic experience at Kleine Rijke.
Food, fabulous food
Kleine Rijke’s chef, Lara Naudé and owner, Jasmyn have put together a menu that speaks to the space and Jasmyn’s passion for healthy, wholesome food. While the menu is limited, it still boasts ample quality choices for meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
We got to try the breakfast bowl, which is perfect for vegetarians (but they can add some crispy bacon for those who want something meaty with it). It’s a mixture of wholesome goodness and will keep you satisfied for the whole day! Trust me.
We also sampled the Eggs Benedict which looked amazing on the plate with one of the best Hollandaise sauces we’ve had in ages. (Wikus is an expert in sniffing out only the best).
The kids got to dig into a unique and very special French Toast. Jasmyn’s mother-in-law makes her own Nastergal jam in Piet Retief. Jasmyn coupled the jam with Cream Cheese and what could have been the normal French Toast with bacon and syrup, was transformed into something magical that our kids devoured.
A workspace out in the open
Apart from the lovely tables and chairs inside the restaurant that offer plug points for those keen on working in this aesthetic environment, Kleine Rijke now also offers a workspace which you can rent for the day. Dubbed the Office Pod, David Krynauw’s cleverly designed workspace, set amidst grasslands and offering a view across the Hartbeespoort Dam, offers the perfect out-of-the-city workspace.
You can book the space at R450 for half a day or R900 for a full day and let the creative juices flow!
Exclusive shopping experience
Jasmyn has also launched a little shop adjacent to the restaurant, stocking all kinds of unique, quality items. From cloths and linen to the most beautiful clothing items and shoes – you’ll have a wonderful shopping experience here too.
READ: Proudly South African Sleepwear
Kleine Rijke farm life
And, in the end, Kleine Rijke’s history is engraved in the details. With it having been in the family for five generations, they live it; breathe it. The history might not be evident in the day-to-day running of things, but Jasmyn has ensured that certain elements stick. Like their delicious Milktart. And the fact that it’s still home. Her parents still live in the homestead on the farm and when you look across the parking lot, you’ll spot the stables where their horses had been kept when Jasmyn was little.
The large patio lined with pot plants, overlooking outstretched fields and the Hartbeespoort Dam, also brings the feeling of home – especially when the dogs come running across the beautiful lawn in front. Here, kids can run free while you indulge in a morning coffee.
Head out to Kleine Rijke for an experience different to the run of the mill coffee shops. It’s a breath of fresh air. Literally.
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