In June 1795, in a show of rebellion against the Dutch East India Company, Swellendam locals declared themselves a republic. By November that year, the republic was ended when the Cape was taken over by British rule.

But this rebellion lives on in the Republic of Swellendam, a restaurant ingrained in the spirit of Swellendam independence. It offers its own spin on South African classic dishes, a rebellious local gin, and in-house chilli oil to add some spice to your life.

Republic of Swellendam: The menu

The Republic of Swellendam’s menu has a diversity that is often overlooked by visitors to Swellendam. There is a lot to look forward to on the menu, and you’ll have trouble knowing where to start.

The menu ranges from burgers to pizzas and Cape Malay curries, not even mentioning the steaks in the meat category. It also does toasted sandwiches and yummy authentic South African dishes like bobotie.

The Republic Burger is a DIY burger option on the menu. It allows you to build your own burger from a base of a naked patty and two buns. For the full menu check out their menu page on the site.

Republic of Swellendam: The drinks menu

The drinks menu is diverse and caters to all kinds of drinkers. There are beers that include staples like Black Label and Windhoek Draft. Then there are non-alcoholic options like Castle Free and Devils Peak Hero.

There are also craft beers that are showcased on a board in the venue. On the other hand, for the non-drinkers, there are milkshakes, cold drinks and water.

There is also one other option that goes hand in hand with the rebellious roots the establishment represents.

Republic of Swellendam: Rebel Gin

Capturing the true spirit of the republic, Rebel Gin is a beverage crafted and developed by what is described as “local republicans”. Rooted in South Africa, this is a classic dry gin.

You can pick up a shot or two at the Republic of Swellendam. Alternatively, you can buy a bottle (or two… or six) from the Rebel Gin online shop, and take home a piece of the republic.

The hot stuff

If you don’t want to take home the beverage of the rebellion described above, why not take home its flavour. The republic of Swellendam has an in-house Chilli Oil that is 100% natural and made with just three ingredients: Malawian chilli, canola oil, and salt.

You can order your bottle, and check out the nutritional values (because rebels still care about your well-being) by visiting the Republic of Swellendam Chilli page. alternatively, you can order in on takealot.com.



Contacts: Republic of Swellendam
Tel: +27 76 991 2123 (Hannes), +27 81 449 3459 (Janus)
Email: info@republicofswellendam.co.za
Website

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