Joplins steak bar

As the name suggests, Joplins is purely and simply a true steakhouse in the real sense of the word. Unlike other so-called steakhouses, they have not diversified and started selling a whole range of other dishes on the menu. They sell and specialise in steak, only one kind of steak, although the menu does not say whether it is dry aged, wet aged, dry aged on the bone, 24 to 35 days aged, free range, grass or grain fed. But steak it is, served Portuguese style with a fried egg on top, garlic butter, proper chips (not the awful frozen kind) and a very small side salad. The steaks don't appear to be enhanced by any spicy or tangy marinades to make them taste better (or to mask the true flavour of the meat). It is a confident chef who will serve the meat unadulterated. We loved the garlic butter, as it tasted like it was made with fresh garlic, and not the bulk, ready-chopped garlic used in most restaurants.

Joplins was started quite a few years ago by Rose Botha, who only opened the restaurant a few nights a week and did all the cooking herself. In the process, Rose built up quite a cult following until she sold the restaurant last year. The new owner is certainly not a novice in the restaurant business, having owned a few restaurants in the past, most notably Blue Olive in Wilderness and the Kingfisher in George. Fortunately for all the Joplins fans, he decided to keep the winning formula that Rose had established and build on the success. New additions to the menu are boerewors, lamb chops and, believe it or not, a vegetarian quiche.

The restaurant is housed in a wooden building, in keeping with the style of Pirates Creek on whose property it stands. There are chairs and tables outside on the lawn and on the deck running around the building. Joplins is perfect for families with kids, as there is a play area for them in the garden. Inside, the

Joplins was started quite a few years ago by Rose Botha, who only opened the restaurant a few nights a week and did all the cooking herself.

tables are more suitable for adult diners, and is very cosy on a cold night when the fire has been lit.

There is also a fully stocked bar that has a small selection of craft beers. They have a reasonable wine list and you are allowed to bring your own. Every main meal is ended with a complimentary tot of vodka and condensed milk with a sprinkle of cinnamon, called a Melktertjie.

We found the tots of whisky, gin etc, to be quite pricey, which consequently made our "dessert" of Dom Pedros with double Kahluas very expensive. Service was very relaxed and laid-back, and a bit hit and miss.

There are no great views, but if you're looking for a casual decent steak, then Joplins is certainly the place to visit. 073 347 8896 / 072 263 9889

Off the N2 at Pirates Creek, Wilderness Opening hours: Tuesday - Saturday 17:30 until late