10 must-have dishes at the inventive Pear Tree

Chef’s inside scoop: Sushi calamari, Cereal Killer & more 

Last updated: Monday, 03 June 2024

Up the cobblestone pathway of this unassuming seaside restaurant (with views of Walker Bay), you’ll find inventive dishes like sushi calamari, kombucha cocktails, and Cereal Killer milkshakes to name a few. We’ve got the inside scoop: Here are 10 crowd-pleaser dishes at Pear Tree, according to the owner and chef.

Pear Tree has been a local favourite since 2015. Image: Pear Tree 

1. SUSHI CALAMARI

One of their best sellers: Salmon sushi stuffed into Patagonian calamari tubes (this species of squid is known for its tenderness and flavour). It’s served with sriracha mayo and topped with an Asian dressing. It’s ideal to snack on while looking out over the bay, where you might spot whales in season.

There’s also normal calamari, fresh oysters and poké bowls on the menu. Image: Pear Tree

2. PINK FALAFEL TACOS 

There’s plenty on the menu for vegans and vegetarians. The vegan taco is filled with falafel balls, which get their pretty pink hue from beetroot, and is paired with hummus, chimichurri and crispy onion on a soft shell taco. “It’s crunchy, saucy and soft, all at once,” says Petri Hendriksz, Pear Tree owner and restaurateur.

Pear Tree’s main focus is on innovative seafood, vegetarian & vegan food. Image: Pear Tree

3. STICKY RICE BALLS

A curious combination you might not think would work is the sticky rice balls. Traditionally a popular Chinese snack, Percy Chidakwa, the head chef, puts his own spin by serving it on a bed of chilli ragout. The balls are filled with a savoury mix of black beans, nori and sesame seeds. He says it's a great bite-sized treat for vegetarians.

Sticky rice is also known as glutinous or ‘sweet’ rice. Image: Pear Tree

4. KOMBUCHA COCKTAILS 

Pear Tree’s inventiveness extends beyond the food. Their cocktails and mocktails come with a twist, too; some are made with wild dagga kombucha like the Berry Blast and Margarita Style. 

By combining the tangy fizz of kombucha with tequila or rum, you get a drink that’s not only refreshing but also “guilt-free and great for gut health,” says Petri. 

The wine and cocktail menu focuses on using ingredients from local craft producers. Image: Pear Tree

5. GINGER & DATE MALVA

The ginger and date malva pudding puts a different spin on a classic dish. It’s a personal favourite of Percy’s, because the sweetness of the date nicely complements the sourness of the ginger. To top it off, it’s plated with salted miso ice cream and peanut brittle with a sesame snap.

Even their desserts are vegan and vegetarian-friendly. Image: Pear Tree

6. PEAR PANNA COTTA

This is their signature dish for good reason. When Petri worked in the UK, he found colleagues who couldn’t pronounce his name. They nicknamed him “Pear Tree”. 

Shaped like a pear, it’s bright green on the outside with a sweet vanilla centre, and served with pear gel and a chocolate crunch. 

Pear Tree’s famous Pear Panna Cotta dessert. Image: Pear Tree. Image: Pear Tree

7. CEREAL KILLER MILKSHAKE

Just as decadent as their desserts are the milkshakes. Your inner child will love the Cereal Killer, made with Rice Krispies and marshmallows. But the secret ingredient, says Petri, is strawberry Steri Stumpie. 

There are other flavours too, like Berry Pavlova (topped with meringue), Choc Peanut and vegan Acai Berry. 

The milkshake flavours are a big hit with kids and adults. Image: Pear Tree

 8. BURNT CAULIFLOWER, BLUE CHEESE & TRUFFLE SOUP

Percy suggests the burnt cauliflower, blue cheese and truffle soup, which comes with crunchy garlic ciabatta. Paired with a glass of gluhwein by the fireplace, it’s perfect for a chilly day.  

Pear Tree has special menu items every winter. Image: Pear Tree

9. CRISPY PAN-FRIED GNOCCHI 

These pillowy potato dumplings are pan-fried to a golden colour, creating a crispy outside with a fluffy centre. “It’s more flavourful than the typical boiled gnocchi,” says Percy, and comes with goat's cheese, roasted beets and basil in a carrot puree.

This dish forms part of their winter menu. Image: Pear Tree

10. CHICKEN AND PRAWN CURRY

“It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavours,” says Percy. The epitome of comfort food, it’s served with coconut lemongrass rice and pickled sambals for crunch. 

Petri is also behind Char’d: One of the best steakhouses in the area, with rare cuts of steak and fantastic burgers. Read more about Char’d Grill & Wine Bar.

This eatery brings something different to the table that you won’t find anywhere else. Image: Pear Tree

MORE ON PEAR TREE

Pear Tree Bistro is open: Daily, 8am to 9pm

Find them: Hermanus Waterfront | Marine Drive | Hermanus

Contact them on: 028 313 1224 | info@peartree.co.za | @peartreehermanus

By Khadeeja Adams

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