The drive from Cape Town to Knysna is pleasant and scenic, but there are a limited number of good food stops along the route. However, if you time it correctly, you’ll be able to stop at a delightful coffee shop in Robertson for breakfast or a light lunch. The trip is just under 160km or about two hours through the late morning traffic.

Grand Café has always been a favourite and never disappoints. It has recently moved to a more prominent position on the main road, next to Robertson Antiques, but the menu still boasts the legendary farm chicken pie and beef lasagne, served with salad and a memorable parsley dressing.

The owner, Rodney, also bakes his own bread and offers his free range eggs for sale. I recently tasted them when I ordered “bubble & squeak” (potato cakes with poached eggs and bacon) and they were deliciously fresh and a brilliant deep yolky colour.

Also on the menu are hearty bean soup, Spanish tortilla, phyllo parcel, and Italian meatballs and tomato with tagliatelle. Various specials are offered daily.

If you just want a good cup of coffee or tea and something sweet, I recommend the scones served with homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream.

Grand Café is open daily for breakfast, lunch and tea.