Are you on the hunt for the best outdoor market in Hermanus, the picturesque coastal town that beckons travellers with its charm? This Saturday I visited the best outdoor market in Hermanus, one that offers not just goods but an experience.
As a seasoned explorer of Hermanus, I can tell you to look no further than the Hermanus Country Market. Whether you’re a local resident searching for hidden gems or a visitor seeking an authentic experience, this market is for you.
Keep reading for my honest review of everything we had to eat and drink. I hope my recommendations are helpful to future visitors!
Table of Contents
Sipping Our Way to Success
Our visit to the Hermanus Country Market was not just about indulging in delectable treats but also a chance to discover beverages that would perfectly complement our culinary adventure.
I’ve become quite health-conscious partner, and start my day with a glass of water mixed with a few drops of apple cider vinegar. Determined to maintain my daily routine, I brought along my flask of vinegar to the market to mix with a bottle of still water from one of the stalls. The market recently lost its liquor licence so if you were hoping for a boozy brunch, my flask trick can also be used to make your coffee Irish…
As for Craig, he is a dedicated coffee enthusiast. He firmly believes that a day without a strong, aromatic cup of black Americano is a day incomplete. On the lookout for a coffee that could match his high expectations, He quickly located the coffee stand at the market. The air was thick with the promise of bold, rich flavours as we approached the counter. However, as any coffee lover knows, reality doesn’t always align with expectations. Regrettably, the coffee he ordered turned out to be somewhat disappointing, a letdown for someone who appreciates a strong brew.
Simple and Savoury
Our day at the Hermanus Country Market was a simple, yet delightful culinary adventure. We didn’t embark on a quest for gourmet cuisine; rather, we were in search of genuine, comforting flavours. Here’s a taste of our experiences.
Craig chose a classic chicken preggo roll for lunch. Succulent, well-grilled chicken coated in a slightly spicy sauce served on a fresh roll. He couldn’t resist going back to the same stall for a second helping but this time opted for a hot dog. His meal left him satisfied and smiling.
Favouring healthier options, I ordered an omelette accompanied by a side salad. The idea was promising, but we discovered that, depending on when you visit, the bustling stalls might result in slightly hurried preparations. Unfortunately, the cheese in the omelette hadn’t melted and overall the result was a bit of a let down.
Joined by my brother, TJ, and his girlfriend, Saskia, we were able to taste a bit of their meals. TJ chose a pancake topped with smoky chorizo and caramelised onion whereas Saskia opted for a freshly baked croissant from the pastry stall. We had major order envy, both their meals were 10/10.
Satisfying Our Sweet Tooth
After indulging in our savoury treats, it was time to conquer the sweet temptations. Our dessert choices reflected the richness of South African flavours and artisanal delights.
We decided to share a delightful assortment, as trying a bit of everything seemed like the perfect sweet conclusion to our market journey. A single scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream, velvety and sweet, was our first pick. It provided a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the day, and its creamy simplicity was a welcome treat.
A gooey, indulgent chocolate brownie followed, offering a satisfying blend of rich cocoa and sweetness. Each bite felt like a warm hug, comforting and decadent.
Next on the dessert journey was a miniature milk tart, a beloved South African delicacy. The sweet custard nestled in a crumbly pastry crust, a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. Its miniature size only made it more adorable and enjoyable.
Lastly, we couldn’t resist the allure of homemade, artisan marshmallows. When I saw them on display at the stall, I originally thought they were soaps. They looked and smelled amazing! Unfortunately, they turned out to look much better than they tasted. We expected soft marshmallow fluff but instead got a crusty exterior and a mushy interior. The flavours were perfumey and unappealing. As beautiful and tempting as they look on display, I wouldn’t recommend the marshmallows.
Browse At Your Leisure
One of the charming aspects of the Hermanus Country Market is the diverse array of stalls that line its bustling walkways. From clothing, shoes, and belts to lamps, records, and books, the market is a treasure trove for enthusiasts like me, who has an unwavering passion for browsing. Craig could feel his bank card sweating in his pocket in anticipation of the damage I was about to do to his bank balance.
Wandering through the market, we couldn’t help but appreciate the opportunity to pick up some exceptional local artisan goods. This wasn’t just shopping; it was an experience that allowed us to collect special gifts to bring back home, a piece of Hermanus to share with our friends and family.
Whether you’re in search of stylish accessories, vintage records, or a good book, the Hermanus Country Market has something for everyone. It’s a reminder that the art of gifting extends beyond the item itself, capturing the spirit and essence of a place to share with loved ones.
Treasures We Took Home
In the end, we couldn’t leave without a few souvenirs and a genuine leather bag to put them all in. I spotted this chocolate brown, leather carry on at the BO.VINE stall. I’ve been looking for a replacement for the backpack which has been Craig’s travel companion for over three years. This beautiful, genuine leather bag is more than a means to transport our hand luggage, it is a classy accessory to add to Craig’s wardrobe.
Final Thoughts
To summarise, our day at the Hermanus Country Market was a delightful blend of exploration, indulgence, and the discovery of local treasures.
From indulging in tasty treats to exploring unique artisan stalls, this market offers a vibrant and charming experience. While we had our preferences and minor quirks along the way, the overall ambiance and the genuine South African hospitality made it a memorable visit.
The Hermanus Country Market is not just a market; it’s an authentic slice of the local culture and a place where you can truly feel the heartbeat of this coastal town. If you’re ever in the area, make sure to drop by and savour the flavours, sights, and sounds that make it a worthwhile stop on your journey.
