We recently took a dear friend to celebrate their 60th birthday in Rosendal — and what was meant to be a simple lunch turned into one of the most memorable food experiences we’ve had in ages.
The destination? Rooitamatie — a tiny, offbeat restaurant in a little red house owned by Renette Vosloo. If that name rings a bell, it should. She’s been on two South African TV shows and is known for her creative flair and food that feels like something out of a memory you wish you had.
The “restaurant” isn’t really a restaurant in the traditional sense — it’s literally her house. One table. Four chairs. Eight guests max if you squeeze in. That’s it. And yet somehow, it feels like the most exclusive booking in town.
Rosendal itself is on the rise. These days, it’s full of creative energy and small, clever homes popping up between the dusty roads. It’s quickly becoming a go-to spot for people looking to escape the predictable. And Rooitamatie fits right in — quirky, bold, a little bit mysterious, and entirely charming.
When we arrived, Renette and her dog, met us at the door with a warmth that immediately cut through the winter chill. She’s recently relocated to Rosendal and brings a different kind of energy to the dorp — upbeat, clever, totally herself. You walk into her space and it’s like entering a living art installation: hand-crafted details, little curiosities tucked into corners, a crackling wood-burning stove, and something simmering quietly in a pot that smells like home and adventure at the same time.
The menu is set — but with generous choices. Three starters, three mains, and one dessert. Everything is made fresh, by Renette, on the day. She talks you through it all — how the dishes came to life, where the inspiration struck, and what went into making them.
My highlight? The kale and beetroot soup. Earthy, vibrant, perfectly balanced — it was unexpectedly bold and absolutely beautiful. Duck confit was one of the main course options and looked like something out of a glossy food magazine — slow-cooked, rich, and crisp in all the right places. But everything on the menu had its own quiet brilliance.
She does everything herself. Cooks, plates, hosts, clears. And she makes it look effortless.
It’s not just a meal. It’s a whole experience. It reminded me why these small towns in the Platteland are punching way above their weight. Rosendal and Ficksburg may look like little dots on a map, but don’t be fooled. There’s magic here — you just have to say yes to lunch.
And if you’re looking to turn lunch into a weekend escape, Victoria House in Ficksburg offers beautiful accommodation just 25 minutes from Rosendal — an easy drive on newly upgraded roads. We have 10 beautifully appointed rooms, delicious meals, and we’re pet friendly too. For bookings, call Gavin on 082 920 5551. We’ll gladly help arrange your stay and anything else you need to enjoy the Eastern Free State in style.
