Five reasons to visit Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve’s iconic Neck & Deck Restaurant

If you are thinking about traveling, why not take a Shot Left to this stunning destination?

Just beyond the hustle of Johannesburg, right at the entrance of the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, you will find a destination where delicious food and unforgettable wildlife experiences come together. The Neck and Deck Restaurant is more than just a place to dine — it’s a full-on bushveld escape that delights every sense.

Whether you are hand-feeding Skye the giraffe or savoring wood-fired pizza with zebra and nyala strolling nearby, this one-of-a-kind spot offers a truly South African experience for visitors of all ages. From peaceful nature moments to quality time with family — or simply a meal with a view like no other — Neck and Deck has it all.

Here are five reasons why it deserves a spot on your travel list:

1. The food is worth the trip alone

Start with the menu — and don’t leave without tasting the famous wood-fired pizzas!

At The Neck and Deck, hearty, freshly prepared meals are served family-style, packed with bold South African flavours and generous portions. From sizzling steaks and crisp salads to flavourful pastas, juicy burgers, and of course, piping-hot pizzas, there’s something to satisfy every craving. There’s even a great kids’ menu, so the whole family’s covered. Plus, the on-site wine cellar offers a handpicked selection of drinks to perfectly pair with your meal.

Fun tip: Chat with the chefs — they love to get creative! Their animal-shaped pizzas (think spiders, roosters, or even warthogs!) are a hit with kids and a fun surprise for the young at heart.

2. Feed Skye the Giraffe

One of the most unforgettable — and totally Instagram-worthy — experiences at the restaurant is meeting Skye, the friendly resident giraffe. This gentle giant is especially fond of kids and loves greeting visitors. You can even buy a snack and hand-feed her straight from the deck! It’s a rare and heartwarming chance to get up close with wildlife, and a definite highlight for guests of all ages.

3. Get the full wildlife experience

Beyond meeting Skye the giraffe, diners at The Neck and Deck are treated to a full wildlife backdrop — with zebra, nyala, goats, and ostriches roaming nearby, every meal feels like a nature escape. Since the restaurant is set within the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, visitors can easily extend their trip with a self-drive or guided game drive, catch thrilling lion and wild dog feedings on weekends and public holidays, or explore the breathtaking Bothongo Wonder Cave — one of the largest natural caves in the Southern Hemisphere.

4. It’s a Kids’ haven

The Neck and Deck Restaurant is a hit with families, thanks to its excellent kids’ play area — complete with a swimming pool for sunny days and plenty of space for little ones to roam and explore. While the kids have fun, parents can unwind outdoors and soak up the relaxed bushveld atmosphere. It’s an ideal outing for families wanting a mix of adventure and downtime.

Planning a birthday? This spot is also perfect for a fun and memorable celebration!

5. Where your next event gets a wild twist

Neck & Deck Café isn’t just about great food with a view — it’s also an ideal venue for your next event. Whether you are hosting a birthday party, corporate function, family get-together, or a special celebration, this café offers a unique blend of warm hospitality and stunning bushveld scenery. With flexible spaces, attentive service, and a menu that caters to every palate, Neck & Deck Café is the perfect place to create lasting memories.

Whether you are a foodie, wildlife enthusiast, or a parent in search of the ultimate family outing, Neck and Deck combines delicious dining with the beauty of nature for an experience like no other.

Ready to experience it? Book your table now at rhinolion.co.za and follow Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve on Facebook and Instagram for more info.

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