If there’s one thing we love more than a good restaurant, it’s seeing how families across South Africa are making food-fuelled memories with their little ones in tow.
This edition of The Dineplan Social Plate focused on kid-approved venues, where the whole family can sit back and relax during the busy school holidays. We followed two family-focused creators as they used the Dineplan app to plan stress-free days out with their kids – and let’s just say, it was smiles all around.
JoyJozi 
(Rosebank, Johannesburg)
In Jozi, Buli (@buli_makhubo) was on the hunt for a school holiday outing – something the kids would enjoy, but also a chance for her to catch her breath and enjoy a proper day out. A quick browse on Dineplan with the kid-friendly filter led her to JoyJozi. Set in a leafy pocket just off Oxford Road, the Rosebank restaurant-meets-playground is built for play, wholesome food, and where little guests are top priority.
Think colourful jungle gyms, bikes, splash zones, and arts and crafts corners – it’s the kind of place tiny explorers can let their imagination run wild.
“There was so much for them to do,” says Buli, “from bike riding and painting to endless jungle gyms.” What’s more – a team of friendly child-minders are on site to help busy parents take a breather, even if it’s just for a sip of coffee.
There were caretakers ready to play with my kids when I needed their assistance – which meant I could sip my coffee while it was still hot (if you know, you know)! – Buli
The menu caters to all ages – from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers to healthy bowls and kid-approved snacks. So, whether you’re popping in for lunch or settling in for a long, lazy afternoon with the family, it’s easy to relax knowing everyone’s entertained – and leaving with full, happy bellies.
The President Hotel
(Sea Point, Cape Town)
Nestled between the slopes of Signal Hill and the Atlantic Ocean, The President Hotel in Bantry Bay isn’t just for grown-up getaways. As Elscha (@outwithkids_capetown) found out, it’s the perfect pick for a family-friendly escape that feels both close to home and like a proper holiday.
“[We] loved that it was a short drive with the kids but a full-on holiday experience,” says Elscha, who checked in with her little ones for a mini-staycation filled with plenty of fun, food, and that all-important chill time.
The incredible team at The President Hotel rolled out the red carpet for the family, who stayed in the Ocean Family Suite – a spacious, two-bedroom spot with en-suite bathrooms, TVs in every room (a win with the kids!), WiFi, and 24-hour room service, and yes – a breakfast buffet that ticks every box, from pancakes to eggs-any-way.
What stood out was all the incredible activities and amenities – especially their staff. Everyone was warm, friendly and welcoming. – Elscha
After a full day filled with adventure, tummies ultimately start rumbling, and luckily, there are a few different options to choose from at The President Hotel! Choose to pull up a seat at The Island Restaurant and let the tiny chefs join in for a pizza-making class (while Mom and Dad escape to The Senate Bar for a quick sundowner), or pop into the Botany Café for a sandwich, salad or delicious sweet treat.
From hotel stays filled with delicious food next to the Atlantic Seaboard to playground-packed lunches in Rosebank, our creators made the most out of the school holidays with their families. Whether it was soaking up sea views or watching their kids tear around jungle gyms, each experience definitely made some core memories – with great food at the centre of it all, of course.
Where should we feature next on The Dineplan Social Plate? Let us know – and don’t forget to tag us in your kid-friendly foodie outings!
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