Guide to Dining in Franschhoek
Cape Winelands, South Africa
Franschhoek is known as the gourmet capital of South Africa, and arguably the best restaurant in the country can be found there. This is a guide to dining in Franschhoek.The Tasting Room has made the list of the world's top 50 restaurants for the last five years. The restaurant is quite pricy with the 9 course tasting menu costing upwards of R700, but Chef Margot Janse is known for her innovative use of local ingredients, creating sophisticated international dishes with flair, and has put this small town on the culinary map.
Slightly less well known establishment that serves delicious food at an affordable price is Moreson Estate's Bread and Wine. This restaurant is only open for lunch, and has a lovely courtyard setting.
In the summer months guests should be sure to book an outside table, where they can sit out under the grape trellises which overlook the bubbling stream and the lemon orchard.
Bread and Wine is known for its seasonal menu. All the bread is made on the premises as well as all the Charcuterie by Chef Niel Jewell. One dish if it is still on the menu that is universally praised is the truffle Risotto.
Reuben Riffle is Franschhoek's celebrity chef who is chef and owner of Reuben's, which has often been voted restaurant of the year. The restaurant has a modern stylish feel to it, and there is a delightful courtyard which is the perfect place to dine in summer.
At Reuben's you will find innovative South African dishes with an international twist. One dish that is sure to please is the braised pork belly.
If gourmet dining is not your thing or is too expensive there are more affordable places to eat, such as the Essence Restaurant and Coffee Bar. This Restaurant serves delicious breakfasts and light meals. Their waffles with preserved fig and brie are delicious.On Sunday mornings the restaurant is often the favourite hangout of the local Harley Club, and many of these bikers can be seen roaring through town. They often have delicious seasonal specials.
Franschhoek Hotels
See Franschhoek Hotel accommodation options.
See Gourmet Franschhoek Hotels for Foodies.
Of course the thing to do in the summer months is to enjoy a picnic on one of the many wine estates. You don't even have to pack your own; you can order a hamper from many different estates. The Country Kitchen at Mont Rochelle offers a delicious hamper filled with country fare, while Allee Bleue offers a sophisticated picnic at its outdoor tables. Another place that offers a stunning picnic hamper is Fyndraai.
