Bringing an exciting and unforgettable restaurant and venue experience to Johannesburg.
After many transformations, River Deck Country Estate is now officially open for business. In the few short months since re-opening in November 2010; the country restaurant, conference and wedding venue has grown from strength to strength and 2011 foresees many new ventures and exciting attractions.
“The road has been a long and winding one with many obstacles – we had to look long and hard for the right people to share in this passion with us and we are confident now that with continued persistence and determination, River Deck will become one of Joburg’s leading restaurants and venues,” says Joe Theron and Patrick Meyer (new owners of River Deck).
Set amongst giant willow trees, where peacocks roam the river banks on lush, grassy slopes, a jewel unfolds to reveal River Deck Country Estate. From the main road, the winding entrance leads guests to a 24-hour secure parking area. A pleasant stroll (wheelchair friendly) steers you across a wooden footbridge to the tranquil – yet trendy – venue that offers more than just the average.
“Patrons are truly spoilt for choice,” says PR and Events Co-ordinator, Monica Ferreira. “River Deck is a sensory pleasure. It’s a multi-purpose country estate, where people can come and relax with friends, family and colleagues, whether it is for conferences or product launches to special occasions or just an intimate dinner or relaxed lunch.”
Formerly Ramkietjie, the venue recently underwent a facelift and now boasts six different venue settings.
The Old Farmhouse Restaurant is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 9am to late. This beautiful authentic building offers more than just the average restaurant – it is fine dining meets casual comforts. Guests are welcomed to an inviting atmosphere, service with a smile and outstanding food. Renowned head chef, Lungi Mpondo (ex-The Grand, Cape Town and Plett) recently joined the River Deck team. “Every effort has gone into creating the perfect menu. The restaurant has an international yet South African flavoured menu,” says Lungi.
The Wilge Room is the largest private function room – catering for up to 300 guests – ideal for magnificent wedding receptions. During the summer, generous French doors open to reveal the splendour of the river from the Deck, while in winter, an enormous fireplace provides comfort. For more modest functions, the Boma is an outdoor thatched area overlooking the river and gardens. The Hornbill and Zebra rooms offer a more intimate atmosphere.
The authentic pub on the upper deck is exceptionally inviting and guests are guaranteed to suffer from lock-down. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of meals from our new pub menu (available from 12h00 – 19h00 from Tuesdays to Sundays), while enjoying a beer or glass of wine. Patrons can also enjoy happy hour from 17h00 to 18h00.
“Every care has been taken to make sure our guests are comfortable and leave more than satisfied – no matter what kind of a function. Ons is nou reg,” says newly appointed general manager, Gerald Veltman (ex-Willoughby’s, Hyde Park).
Guests to River Deck Country Estate can look forward to exciting future developments, which include the building of several villas, a chapel and children’s playground; an organic market; and monthly entertainment by some of South Africa’s biggest acts.
