The Stodels Garden Center in Bellville is not only a great place to shop around for new green editions to your home, it also houses (another!!!) fantastic restaurant and play area with entertainment for the whole family. We already visited the Good Thyme Cafe at Stodels Garden Center in Milnerton which we absolutely love. Now it was time, to give this one a try and we weren’t disappointed.

At the Good Thyme Café (previously called: “Green Leaf Cafe” under different ownership) children of all ages will find something entertaining to play with. The space is basically divided into two play areas. One for the younger kids who still might need a little assistance and a second large play area for kids of all ages.

The smaller area features a jumping castle, a wooden train architecture with mini slides and rocking horses.

The main play area is equipped with a maze of jungle gyms, slides, a trampoline, climbing facilities, tubes and bridges and they even set up a sand art station for those who love to become creative.

The parents can always choose a seat right next to their preferred play area and watch over the children while they are busy playing. The food menu is quite extensive and you’ll find anything from burgers to pizzas, sandwiches, light meals and breakfast. They also have a kiddies menu and (among many other things) serve delicious milkshakes and even slushies.

One of the main highlights is probably their little animal park. At the counter, you can buy an Animal Feeding Bag for R20 and spoil the cute fur friends with some salad, carrots and apples. You’ll meet Alpacas, goats, a sheep, rabbits, pigs and a horse. There is also a sweet monkey living at the premises, but you cannot feed this little fella, unfortunately.

Kiddies Birthday Parties

If your kids like to play and interact with animals, then this might be a great party spot for you. You can book the venue for birthday parties and pick between different slots on weekends (10:00 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 16:30). You can choose from three different party packages starting from R95 per child.

Parties are hosted in a designated area of the play park (not on the restaurant decks or inside the train). Capacity is capped at 15 children and 30 adults, with a little flexibility for an extra child or two if confirmed with management beforehand. The table next to the trampoline is reserved for the kids, plus 2–4 tables for décor and adult platters.

You can also bring along your own decor and birthday cake (cake fee is R75). Outside food or drinks are not permitted.