Among the oldest of the “new-world” wine regions (many of the wineries have been producing vintages since the 1600s), South Africa can hold its own when it comes to producing world-class wines. What is lesser known, however, is that nestled among all these grapes are equally stellar restaurants — some independently operated and some winery owned — taking part in an epicurean evolution that is garnishing international acclaim. Several of the restaurants have been listed on the respected San Pellegrino Top 100 restaurants in the World Awards, and in the 2010 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards, the Western Cape was voted the second best food and wine destination in the world. Best of all, these medal-worthy meals can be had for a fraction of what a similar five-star dining experience would cost in North America or Europe.
So that you can spend more time eating and less time researching, here is a list of the top ten restaurants South Africa’s wine regions have to offer.
1. The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français (Franschhoek wine region): Arguably South Africa’s, if not the continent’s, most acclaimed restaurant, it has consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 restaurants and, in 2011 won The Acqua Panna Best Restaurant in the Middle East and Africa award. Headed by Margot Janse, one of the world’s most lauded female chefs, the menu is original and showcases African-inspired cuisine.
Hint: Book well in advance and be prepared to set aside 3½ hours for this gastronomic experience of a lifetime.
2. Rust en Vrede (Stellenbosch wine region): Owned by the Rust en Vrede wine estate (which is an award winner in its own right for its premium, red-only vintages) this restaurant has won universal acclaim as one of the world’s best culinary destinations. The highlight of its contemporary menu is its multi-course food and wine pairings, which wins accolades from foodies and oenophiles in equal measure.
Hint: While the entire wine list has surprisingly low mark-ups for a restaurant of its calibre, vintages from Rust en Vrede’s sister winery, Guardian, are a particularly good bargain.
3. La Colombe (Constantia wine region): Also among the world’s most well-regarded restaurants, its take on French meets Asian cuisine creates food combinations that are as much food as fantasy. Among locals it’s famous for its Winter Special Menu, which runs from May until Aug (consult restaurant for exact dates and prices) and offers a multi-course meal paired with wine for a steal.
Hint: If you miss the Winter Special, go to sister restaurant Constantia Uitsig for a more affordably tasty fine-dining experience.
4. Delaire Graff Estate (Stellenbosch wine region): Diners would be hard-pressed to say whether it’s the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains and vineyards or the exquisite food that makes this one of the area’s most popular restaurants. Despite being consistently crowded, the service is unbeatable and guests are made to feel like royalty. Can’t decide what to order? Go for whatever is being grilled on their massive outdoor bbq (or braai as it is called in Afrikaans).
Hint: Go for lunch rather than dinner to fully appreciate the unrivaled mountain scenery.
5. Waterkloof (Stellenbosch wine region): Perched high atop a hill overlooking False Bay and surrounded by mountains, the Restaurant at Waterkloof offers diners unparalleled views of the Western Cape (the winery was awarded the best architecture and landscape title in the prestigious Great Wine Capitals Best of Wine Tourism Awards 2012). Luckily, the cuisine is as commanding as the landscape.
Hint: If you don’t have time for a meal, be sure to check out the tasting room which is adjacent to the restaurant and offers the chance to take in the stellar views.
6. Tokara (Stellenbosch wine region): Yet another winery-owned restaurant as famous for its vistas as for its menu. At 400 metres above sea level, Tokara offers dramatic views of the Helshoogte Pass just outside of Stellenbosch. Completely renovated in 2010, the revamped restaurant is already receiving rave reviews and dishes are as notable for their taste as for their colourful, artistic presentation.
Hint: Bite into an authentic South African dish and order the peppered springbok, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
7. Overture (Stellenbosch wine region): Located on the Hidden Valley wine estate, Overture consistently ranks among South Africa’s top 10 restaurants. The focus is on fresh and local meat and produce and the menu is constantly changing to showcase the season’s best offerings.
Hint: Go on an empty stomach and experience the eight course tasting menu with wine pairings.
8. Reuben’s Restaurant and Bar (Franschhoek wine region): The flagship in a growing empire of restaurants, this is South African celebrity chef Reuben Riffel’s original brasserie. Elegant yet relaxed, Reuben’s emphasis is on simply prepared food with a minimum of fuss.
Hint: If you’re staying in Cape Town and can’t make it out to the wine lands, check out Reuben’s restaurant at the prestigious One & Only hotel at the V & A Waterfront.
9. Cuvee (Stellenbosch wine region): Located at Simonsig winery, one of Stellenbosch’s most lauded wineries, Cuvee is a favourite among locals. Housed in a charming Cape Dutch manor, the menu offers a contemporary take on regional Cape cuisine with wines by the glass at exceptionally reasonable prices.
Hint: Makers of South Africa’s first Méthode Cap Classique, (sparkling wine made in the classic French Champagne tradition), be sure to treat yourself to a glass of the bubbly.
10. Terroir (Stellenbosch wine region): Located at the Kleine Zalze winery, this is another of South Africa’s most prestigious dining destinations. Equally as famous for its rich sauces as for its thoughtful wine parings, the menu changes daily to highlight the best the region has to offer.
Hint: Book a table outside under the towering oak trees that overlook the gardens and surrounding vineyards.
Many of the wineries do special wine pairing dinners throughout the year at fantastic prices. Check the individual websites for information.
Sandra MacGregor - I am a professional freelance writer focusing on travel, food, wine, decor and gardening I am Canadian, but currently traveling in ...
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