Relaxing bush restaurant great for kids and grownups alike

The Neck & Deck Restaurant is at the entrance to Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve on Kromdraai Road, Cradle of Humankind near Krugersdorp. It’s a pleasant country drive to get there, with ample parking. With two different play areas and several splash pools as well as build-your-own pizza options, this is a great venue for parents who’d like to relax in the bush without having to travel far, and enjoy great food while the kids have loads of fun. My 5-year-old squealed with delight when she spotted the giraffe-themed helter skelter (I blame too many episodes of Peppa ***) and had an absolute ball. We’d packed her swimsuit, so she was also able to have fun in the splash pools (not to worry, there is a lifeguard on duty). I ordered the Moroccan chicken cigars and venison spring rolls for the table, and the portion sizes were pretty generous – this wasn’t just a nibble. My mom and the kids all enjoyed their milkshakes, and the staff were super friendly and helpful.

The resident zebras, their friend the impala ram, the new giraffe and their neighbours the Arabian oryx and Barbary sheep all seemed to be having a good time. There was also live music which added to the relaxed ambience. (I was driving or I would definitely have ordered a white wine spritzer.)

Think Spur in the bush – but way better.