The Hat & Creek
Dine at this 4.5-star Kruger National Park gem. Enjoy delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
About The Hat & Creek
Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Kruger National Park, this popular dining spot offers a truly memorable experience. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 1200 reviews, it's clear guests appreciate the quality and ambiance. The welcoming atmosphere, often described as charming and convivial, makes it a perfect stop after a day of exploring. Diners rave about the generous portions and expertly prepared dishes, particularly the wild game options which provide a true taste of the region. Paired with a delightful selection of local wines and the option for outdoor seating, it's an ideal destination for both intimate dinners and group gatherings.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Family Friendly, Groups Welcome, Reservations
Set your restaurant preferences in your profile to see how well this restaurant matches your dining style.
Why Travelers Love The Hat
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
We arrived late after driving from JNB airport, and were warmly welcomed and seated. The restaurant was mostly full and had a charming convivial atmosphere. We enjoy gastronomic tourism, so we ordered the smoked springbok carpaccio and wild game platter that consisted of a generous sample of eland, kudu and ostrich steaks, all cooked to perfection! We selected a local South African Pinotage red wine to wash it all down - delightful! The portions were generous, but we managed to squeeze in dessert (as we all know there is a separate stomach for dessert! 😉), and we were impressed to find that they offered high-end coffees too. No meal is complete without a double espresso and a local spirit, so KWV 10yo brandy capped off a very special, and much appreciated welcome to Hoedspruit! Thank you to Ernest and Nicolette who attended to us. We will be back! The food was amazing! Really loved the t-bone stake and the carrot cake. Would definitely come back We came here on recommendation from our Host and were not disappointed. The restaurant is easy to get to in Hoedspruit plus ample parking just outside. The menu has a wide variety of food options to choose from as well a good wine and cocktails range. Overall pleasant evening and would recommend.
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Opening Hours
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Recent Reviews
John P.
November 18, 2025
We arrived late after driving from JNB airport, and were warmly welcomed and seated. The restaurant was mostly full and had a charming convivial atmosphere. We enjoy gastronomic tourism, so we ordered the smoked springbok carpaccio and wild game platter that consisted of a generous sample of eland, kudu and ostrich steaks, all cooked to perfection! We selected a local South African Pinotage red wine to wash it all down - delightful! The portions were generous, but we managed to squeeze in dessert (as we all know there is a separate stomach for dessert! 😉), and we were impressed to find that they offered high-end coffees too. No meal is complete without a double espresso and a local spirit, so KWV 10yo brandy capped off a very special, and much appreciated welcome to Hoedspruit! Thank you to Ernest and Nicolette who attended to us. We will be back!
Anca
November 18, 2025
The food was amazing! Really loved the t-bone stake and the carrot cake. Would definitely come back
Josh N.
November 12, 2025
We came here on recommendation from our Host and were not disappointed. The restaurant is easy to get to in Hoedspruit plus ample parking just outside. The menu has a wide variety of food options to choose from as well a good wine and cocktails range. Overall pleasant evening and would recommend.
gordon W.
September 29, 2025
Comes over as a smart upmarket venue but has a couple of flaws. The toilet area is the worst I have experienced in SA. A hand towel…really ?? Err…hygiene… Shambolic service. There was 13 in our party. 6 of us arrived at 6.30pm and we got our drinks AFTER THE other 7 had arrived, ordered and had their drinks. We waited almost 45 minutes for our drinks despite repeated requests. Food was fine. There is a lot of competition in the town and the H&C won’t get our custom the next time we visit.
אלון ב.
August 8, 2025
The restaurant offers a wide variety of different dishes. The main specialty is grilled and focuses on beef fillet. Beef fillet with Roquefort and figs is a perfect dish in every way
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make The Hat special
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Family Friendly
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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