Bellies Full At Bogenfels

Named after the great stone archway hidden in the depths of the Sperrgebiet territory, Bogenfels Restaurant is one of Luderitz’s lesser known gems. Located along the road heading out of town, the restaurant boasts a friendly ambience and simple, classic decor. Each of the meticulously laid tables is separated by partitions of deep red wall, allowing a sense of privacy whilst you eat. One of the most unique features of Bogenfels however, is it’s facilities for children; tucked away into the corner is an array of toys and games perfect for distracting the kids when Mum and Dad want to have a quiet meal.

Since February of this year Bogenfels has been under new management and offers one of the largest menus in town along with excellent and friendly service. We decided it was the perfect time to check it out!

Bacon, Cheese and Garlic Roll, N$30: A simple but very tasty starter, the Bacon, cheese and garlic roll gives you no more than the name implies. It is a decent sized to fairly big starter.

Garlic Snails with Fishermans Loaf, N$35: I first attempted to eat snails in France two years ago and, after the initial revulsion at the notion that I was munching on a plate of slimy molluscs, the garlic taste had me hooked. I am happy to say that Bogenfels’ snail dish did nothing to quell my love; the food was neither too greasy nor too garlicky whilst the bread that accompanied it, although perhaps a little dry, was perfect for mopping up the sauce.

Bogenfels Style Pork Rib, N$90: A rib usually stands or falls with the marinading, which is in this case outstanding. The rib is juicy, with a lovely sauce. At N$90 the rib offers an incredible value to money ratio, for it is certain to fill even those with a bigger appetite. The Bogenfels style pork rib gets my recommendation, when dining out at Bogenfels.

Thai Beef Salad, flame grilled beef slices, sweet Thai sauce, jalapeno peppers, lemon, cherry tomatoes and fresh mint, N$40: Since living in Namibia it is rare that I should chose a salad over a plate of meat but faced with the opportunity to sample an oriental dish I couldn’t refuse. My plate came piled high with soft, thin strips of beef, sweet cherry tomatoes and an unexpectedly large amount of onion. Although the dish wouldn’t be my regular choice I recommend it to anyone who just wants a break from a meat overdose.