The Joy of Bread Making: Ile de Pain in Knysna

Imagine going to Paris and not visiting the Eiffel Tower – crazy, right? Well, the same goes for Thesen Island in Knysna – you can’t skip a visit to Ile de Pain. It’s not just a treat, it’s also a place of history and culture. As the artisan baker, Markus Farbinger, puts it, “This place is like a living museum. We educate and inspire people here. And oh, we also enjoy some delicious food while we’re at it!”

Ile de Pain, also known as the “island of bread,” is a feast for the senses. You’re greeted with delightful sights and incredible smells as soon as you step in. It’s a lively place where people gather, chat, and indulge in wholesome goodness. But remember, Ile de Pain is not your average bakery – it’s a place of artisanal craft. Markus wants to make it clear that this is no designer store. “Our bread is serious stuff,” he says. “It’s bold, it’s robust, and it’s full of life.”

In December 2002, my friend Markus and I, renowned chef Liezie Mulder, brought our shared vision to life with the opening of ile de pain. We had met while in the States and quickly realized that we both had a passion for celebrating the art of bread making and creating delicious dishes with wholesome, fresh ingredients.

When it comes to baking the best bread, it’s not just about me. I know that true success starts with the ingredients we use. As an artisan baker, I rely on skilled millers and farmers who are just as passionate about their craft as I am.

At ile de pain, we believe in working in harmony with nature. That’s why our bread is made with all-natural ingredients and traditional techniques that have been perfected over thousands of years. We’ve taken inspiration from ancient African bread making methods to create bread that is not only delicious, but also good for you.

Some people think that bread makes you feel bloated, but that’s not always the case. The key is to choose good bread – bread that is made with care and high-quality ingredients. When you eat our bread, you’ll be nourishing your body with wholesome goodness.

So, if you’re looking for bread that is both delicious and nutritious, look no further. Our artisan bread is made with love and dedication, and we think you’ll taste the difference. Give it a try and experience the joy of good bread!

Hey there! Welcome to ile de pain, located on the picturesque Thesen Island. We’re open for breakfast and lunch, serving up honest, fun, and flavorful dishes. Our menu was designed by the talented Liezie and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

For breakfast, you’ve got to try our brioche French toast topped with a delicious berry compote and creamy mascarpone. It pairs perfectly with our refreshing mint cacao pick-me-up smoothie. It’s the ultimate morning treat!

If you join us for lunch, we highly recommend Marco’s fresh mozzarella and marinated summer vegetable salad. It’s bursting with fresh flavors and will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Another great option is our house-made pure beef burger. It’s juicy, flavorful, and simply irresistible.

Before you leave, make sure to grab a little something for later. Whether it’s a delectable pastry, some Felchin chocolate, a jar of our tangy lemon jelly, or a packet of fresh limes for just R20, we’ve got you covered.

In the words of the English poet Robert Browning, “If thou tastest a crust of bread, thou tastest all the stars and all the heavens.” And here at ile de pain, we wholeheartedly agree. Our food is more than just sustenance; it’s a glimpse into a world of culinary wonders.

Curious to know more?

Ile de pain is a lovely bakery and restaurant that serves breakfast from 08h00 to 11h00 and lunch from 11h30 to 15h00, Tuesday to Saturday. On Sundays, they have breakfast and lunch available all day, from 09h00 to 13h30.

Just a heads up, they’re closed on Mondays.

Keep in mind that the menu might change from time to time, so what you see today may not be the same tomorrow.

If you’re looking for amazing places to stay in Knysna, check out Getaway Accommodation.

If you’re looking for amazing places to stay in Knysna, check out Getaway Accommodation.