Delicious Culinary Journey at the Cape

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

We continue our tour with recommendations for Cape travelers. As before, we are not after the Michelin stars but rather focus on casual spots that are enjoyable in everyday life and may cost only half of what you'd pay in Europe for similar quality. The same goes for many South African wines, and, of course, this week, you’ll find several of them at attractive promotional prices.

But back to the culinary aspect, where we start with a slight exception to the everyday theme. In terms of price and availability, as well as the desire to dine daily, the restaurant “Chorus” at Waterkloof, the well-known winery in Somerset West, is slightly off the plan. Chorus is the latest addition to the culinary empire of TV chef and beloved personality Bertus Basson, whose culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in South African cuisine.

If you're looking for molecular gastronomy, you won't find it here. Instead, you get dishes that you have probably heard of, crafted with the best local ingredients that come together with care and creativity to create memorable meals.

You can choose between a four-course and a six-course menu, priced at approximately 40 or 48 euros per person, respectively. Given the quality of the experience, it's a very fair price, although on the higher side for people earning their money in South Africa.

We haven’t been there ourselves yet but have a reservation for late January, as very good friends who raved about their evening there inspire us to share this recommendation wholeheartedly.

Olympia Café in Kalk Bay

Olympia is one of the places we've mentioned in the past and one we cannot seem to get enough of. Our first visit here was over 20 years ago, and had someone not pointed it out to us then, we'd have probably walked right past it. Many unsuspecting visitors to the quaint coastal town of Kalk Bay likely have the same experience today, as we remember that nothing has changed in the last 20 years. The atmosphere is cool, relaxed, featuring mismatched wooden furniture, reminiscent of the hippie era. Olympia is not for the pampered five-star traveler but fits perfectly with the artistic, free-spirited vibe of Kalk Bay.

It starts at the vibrant fishing harbor with its colorful fishing boats, continues with a variety of small independent boutiques away from mainstream, and countless galleries. Olympia also runs its own bakery, tempting with various delicious pastries, and the bread served with meals is a delight, especially with the olive oil that’s also offered. But be careful, don’t fill up too much, as you’ll want to save room for whatever you order. The small kitchen team in the open kitchen, which looks like it belongs in a student flat, crafts dishes that are second to none and always fresh. Mussels in white wine that cannot be beaten, and till today, the best tuna we have ever eaten. What’s written black and white on the daily chalkboard brings joy to life.

So if you’re not bothered by the rustic surroundings, you’ll have a lovely time here. However, ensure you arrive on time or can wait until your name pops up at the top of the waiting list for a free table, where visitors can sign up when all are booked. Unfortunately, reservations cannot be made here.

Picnic at Spier

Picnic traditionally means a meal made with brought food and is typically a cheerful gathering of family and friends. You sit outside in beautiful nature, perhaps under a shade tree, kids play, adults enjoy good conversations, and everyone spends a relaxing afternoon. So much for the stereotype. However, since most of us are thousands of miles from home and lack the necessary picnic accessories, there are delightful offers at the Cape, such as at Spier.

This eco-conscious wine farm features ancient trees, a pond, and sprawling meadows, providing the perfect natural setting. The team at Spier has put together all you need to create those picture-perfect picnic moments.

All that's required now is you and your loved ones in a holiday mood.

If you find yourself on site, check out the various menu options and you can book your picnic here.

Restaurant at Opstal

When one travels and feels hungry or needs a break on the way from or to Robertson, the best option is to veer into Rawsonville from the R101 onto Slanghoek Road and reach Opstal Wine Farm after about eight kilometers. Far removed from the hustle and bustle, geographically nestled between Wellington and Worcester, owner and winemaker Attie Louw not only produces excellent wines but also runs a family restaurant that is quite popular among the locals. A bit like Bavaria, where families meet for homestyle meals in the “Wirtschaft.” However, Attie's delicious wines elevate the experience well above the typical beer hall atmosphere you might have imagined.

Food and drink at Attie have a distinct quality, and everyone except the designated driver can easily indulge in a wine tasting, or check out the weekly specials.

It’s not a destination you’d stumble upon randomly, but a worthwhile detour.

La Petite Ferme

We have previously reported on this traditional winery located on the slopes above Franschhoek. However, the recently renovated restaurant on the farm deserves attention as well. As we always say, “the eyes feast too,” and that not only refers to the food but also to the view and the surroundings.

In terms of surroundings, you find yourself surrounded by vineyards, and the view is literally breathtaking, stretching over the entire Franschhoek Valley.

While there may be more spectacular culinary experiences in the town center, the typical South African and international favorites served here truly appeal to higher standards.

For us, it’s the best place to enjoy lunch in Franschhoek. You can view the menu options here.

Stables or Café Fleur at Vergelegen

Knowing that perhaps the most beautiful and historic winery in South Africa belongs to “Anglo American,” a mining company with a revenue exceeding 40 billion dollars, gives you a sense of how well-maintained everything is here, how lovingly the historical trees and structures are preserved, and how much style everything has. This of course applies to the wines you can order at special rates through us in the tasting room via QR code, but also to the culinary offerings.

Unlike elsewhere, you have a choice here between the more family-friendly Stables Restaurant and the fine dining experience in the adjacent Café Fleur. While the former is conducted in bistro style with spectacular views of the gardens and the mountains behind, the latter is all about pampering true gourmets without distractions from the breathtaking natural surroundings.

At Vergelegen, you can also enjoy picnics in the historic, enchanting camphor forest—a truly beautiful experience!

Whatever you choose, when in the area, Vergelegen should be on your must-visit list.

(Offers valid from: 18.01.2023 - 25.01.2023)