If you are looking to buy your dream home in South Africa, don’t underestimate the importance of entertainment space. Take it from one born and brought up there, it won’t be long before you have shared a cold drink with your neighbour and are on a first-name terms with your butcher. Entertaining at home is a popular leisure pursuit and it will be your turn to host in no time at all.

When you're not viewing houses and sizing up the entertainment space on offer, you’ll have the opportunity to try some of the finest restaurants in the world. Last Christmas, I spent a wonderful two weeks revisiting some favourite haunts (as well as trying some new ones) in Cape Town, Winelands and the Garden Route. Here are six not to be missed.

Ou Meel Bakery, Rivieronderend

Generously filled pies are the speciality here: try the locally sourced game pie. If you have room for dessert, then the family size milk tarts are delicious.

Butterfly Blu Restaurant, Brenton-on-Sea

Make sure you get a seat on the terrace so you can take in the magnificent view. Blu is best known for its pizzas, cooked in a traditional pizza oven imported all the way from the Croatian island of Vis.

Tapas and Oysters, Thesen Island, Knysna

A great spot for a fun night out. Order oysters and seafood and settle down to enjoy the live music and buzzing atmosphere.

Pili Pili River Bar, Breede River Lodge, Port Beaufort, Witsand

Canoe down from Buffelsbaai and stop off for Roosterkoek (a traditional bread that is grilled on a braai, or barbecue). Combine with a 15-minute head massage while you’re here.

Harbour House, Kalk Bay, Cape Town

This smart restaurant sits on a wild rock face. Grab a table by the window and enjoy the waves breaking just below you. The food is beautifully presented.

Babylonstoren, Franschhoek

A Cape Dutch farm dating back to 1692 with vineyard, hotel and restaurant in a mountain setting. The food is garden to table: try the eclectic mix of fruit, meats, pâtés and sorbets served together.

Now that you know where to eat, here are a few places where you can lay your head – in your own home.