Tasty Journey at the Cape: Discover Local Eateries

In mid-December, we took you on a short trip through some South African restaurants worth visiting when spending time at the Cape.

We continue our tour with recommendations for visitors at the Cape. Just like before, we're not after Michelin stars but rather highlight places that bring joy into everyday life and, at similar quality, might cost only a fraction of what you would pay in Europe. The same applies to many of South Africa's wines, which again you will find at several attractive special prices this week!

Returning to culinary matters, we start with a slight exception to our previous everyday focus. In terms of price and availability, as well as the wish to eat simply, the restaurant “Chorus” located at Waterkloof, the well-known winery in Somerset West, falls slightly outside our featured selection. Chorus is the latest addition to the culinary empire of television chef and beloved figure, Bertus Basson, whose cooking philosophy is firmly rooted in South African cuisine.

If you are searching for molecular cuisine, you will not find it here. Instead, you are treated to dishes you've likely heard of but crafted with the finest local ingredients, carefully and creatively turned into memorable meals.

Choices range from a four-course to a six-course menu, with prices currently around 40 or 48 euros per person. A fair price considering the experience, but certainly on the higher end for locals working in South Africa.

We haven't dined here yet ourselves but have managed to get a booking for late January, and due to the raves from our close friends who experienced a great evening, we are happy to pass on this recommendation.

Olympia Café in Kalk Bay

Olympia is one of the places we've mentioned before and one that continues to entice us. Our first visit was over two decades ago, and had we not been tipped off, we would likely have missed it entirely. Many unsuspecting visitors to the charming coastal town of Kalk Bay probably have similar experiences, as far as we can tell, nothing has significantly changed here in the last 20 years. The atmosphere is laid-back and cool, featuring an eclectic mix of wooden furniture, with a hint of nostalgia reminiscent of the hippie era; Olympia does not cater to the pampered five-star tourist but aligns beautifully with the artistic, free spirit ambiance that Kalk Bay offers.

The experience begins in the bustling fishing harbour filled with vibrant fishing boats, continues with a range of unique boutiques that stray from the mainstream, and culminates in the presence of Olympia. The spot boasts its own bakery, delighting patrons with various tempting treats, and the bread served with meals is a true pleasure, especially when paired with the olive oil that’s offered at every table. But take care not to fill up too soon, as you’ll want to save room for whatever it is you’ve ordered. The open kitchen produces dishes that are truly remarkable and fresh; the mussels in white wine simply cannot be beaten, and we still regard the tuna here as the best we've ever had. It’s safe to say that the menu items written on the daily chalkboard instill joy and life.

If you're not fazed by the rustic atmosphere, you'll have a delightful time here. Just remember to arrive promptly or be prepared to wait until your name is at the top of the list for a free table, as visitors can sign up when all tables are full. Unfortunately, reservations are not accepted.

Picnic at Spier

A picnic is defined as a meal that includes carried foods, often a cheerful gathering of families or friends. One sits outdoors in beautiful nature, possibly under a shade-providing tree, children at play while adults enjoy good conversations, and everyone indulging in a relaxed afternoon. However, with the reality that many of us are thousands of kilometers away from home and lack all the necessary accessories, there are indeed offerings like those at Spier that help bridge that gap.

This very eco-conscious wine farm, with an ancient tree population, pond, and ample grassy areas, provides the ideal picturesque setting for a perfect picnic. The Spier team has lovingly crafted everything you would need to enjoy those idyllic moments.

All it takes is you and your loved ones in the spirit of vacation.

If you find yourself onsite and have the urge to indulge, check out the various menu options and see how you can book your experience.

Restaurant at Opstal

If one embarks on a journey and finds oneself hungry on the way to or from Robertson, the best course of action is to divert in Rawsonville from R101 onto Slanghoek Road and reach Opstal Wine Farm after approximately eight kilometers. Situated away from the hustle and bustle, physically located between Wellington and Worcester, owner and winemaker Attie Louw produces not only excellent wines but also runs a popular family restaurant beloved among locals. Much like we encounter in Bavaria at a local tavern, Attie's delectable wines significantly raise the bar beyond the context of the typical beer hall ambiance you may have envisioned.

Here, dining and drinks have a notable standard, and everyone except the designated driver can easily indulge in a wine-tasting experience or take advantage of the weekly specials.

This is not a place you would randomly come across, but it’s definitely worth making a small detour.

La Petite Ferme

In the past, we’ve discussed this winery located on the hills above Franschhoek. We consistently emphasized the wines themselves. However, the recently renovated restaurant is equally deserving of attention. As we always say, “We eat with our eyes,” referring not only to the dishes but also to the scenery and surrounding environment.

Located in the midst of vineyards, the views quite literally take your breath away, stretching across the impressive Franschhoek valley.

While there may be more extravagant culinary offerings in the town center, the local South African dishes and international staples served here genuinely meet higher culinary expectations.

From our perspective, it’s the best location to enjoy lunch in Franschhoek. You can check the menu options here.

Stables or Café Fleur at Vergelegen

When one realizes that perhaps the most beautiful and historic of all South African wineries belongs to “Anglo American,” a mining company with annual revenues exceeding 40 billion dollars, it makes the exceptional care of the surroundings and buildings, and the sophistication of the atmosphere, more comprehendible. This applies not only to the wines available for purchase via QR codes at special offers in the tasting room but certainly holds true for the dining options available.

Unlike other venues, you have the choice here between the family-friendly Stables Restaurant and the fine dining experience at Café Fleur. The former is bistro-style with extraordinary views of the gardens and the distant mountain range, while the latter prioritizes gourmet experiences, allowing the ambiance to remain focused on the culinary essence without the distractions of nature.

Equally, at Vergelegen, one can enjoy picturesque picnics within the historic and enchanting camphor forest – a beautiful experience!

Whatever you opt for, while in the vicinity, Vergelegen should surely be scheduled into your itinerary.

(Offers valid from: 18.01.2023 - 25.01.2023)