Cape Winelands Restaurants

Fresh ingredients grace dishes prepared home-style, using the freshest South African ingredients and tried and tested recipes. Balmy summer days extend a warm welcome with a traditional lamb on the spit, served with salads, vegetables and roast potatoes everyday and winters combine a three course meal consisting of starters, mains and desert every Sunday. Spend long lazy afternoons soaking up sun and live music drifting through the air, as the aroma of succulent lamb on the spit wets the appetite complimented by fine wines at Backsberg Restaurant.

A visit to Bayede! may very well have its visitors shouting just that on their way out: Hail to the King! Set amongst the beauty of the Helderberg mountains with vineyards surrounding, Bayede! boasts a wine cafe that is equally suitable for families and more formal affairs. Families can enjoy a relaxing lunch out on the lawn picnic style while the children stretch their legs or entertain themselves with trout fishing at the dam. The indoor restaurant offers a more intimate setting for smaller groups that require a little more formality. The menu is wholly South African, but with original twists of brilliance. It changes weekly to make the most of fresh local produce, but guests may happily expect a variety of starters, mains and dessert. For starters delve into a classic Caesar Salad where bacon has been replaced with biltong and anchovies for snoek pate. The main courses cater more than adequately for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. And with a chef that is known for his sweet tooth, there’s no getting away without a bite into the decadent dark chocolate-espresso torte with merlot poached pears & cardamom parfait. The restaurant has a wide selection of wines, but patrons are guided with wine and food pairing suggestions on the menu.

Bistro ALLEE BLEUE offers innovative bistro cuisine using local seasonal produce and ingredients sourced from the estate’s gardens and local wine lands. The comprehensive menu boasts typical South African delicacies and top class ALLEE BLEUE wines in a stylish atmosphere brimming with charm. Savour bistro delights and exceptional service at this classic contemporary bistro in Groot Drakenstein.

Bodega @ Dornier finds itself part of the patchwork of wine farms and vineyards that quilts the hills of Stellenbosch. A little distance from the town centre, Dornier Wine Estate has diversified its hospitality and made the Spanish bodega manner of hosting food and wine at the cellar door its own. Set amongst the manicured vineyards and indigenous fynbos, the restaurant is housed in a historic barn some two hundred years old. The sights and sounds of its splendid natural surroundings exude tranquillity and set the scene for a relaxing lunch or dinner. The menu reflects good, honest farm style food inspired by local, fresh and seasonal produce, so expect changes on the blackboard menu on an almost daily basis. The wine list is dominated by Dornier’s selection of its own wines and compliments the menu while promising an excellent marriage of food and wine. Day time visits also allow for wine tasting.

Flanked by majestic mountain views and rolling manicured gardens, Café Antionette offers a nostalgic dining experience in formal or casual surroundings. The menu offers light meals, South African and International flavours while summer beacons picnics on the sprawling lawns surrounded by fynbos gardens on the slopes of Franschhoek Mountain. Take a tour of the French Huguenot Museum before or after visiting Café Antionette.

The Country Kitchen has been dubbed Tuscan and Mediterranean in style. Located in the wine tasting facility of Mont Rochelle vineyards, the restaurant offers relaxed dining, with a slant on Mediterranean fare. This is the perfect spot for an al fresco lunch or cosy dinner. The décor is rustic, from authentic wooden tables to potted herbs, huge candelabra and a cosy fireplace.It might only be a few minutes drive from town but this restaurant is a world apart when it comes to soaking up the sights and sounds of the Winelands. Wine tasting can be conducted at restaurant tables – a perfect way to see which wine goes best with dishes ordered.Alternatively for those wanting more fresh air and relaxation, pick up a picnic basket at the Country Kitchen and take a stroll through the vineyards to the dam, into the rose garden or to the shade of an oak tree and make yourself comfortable. Unpack your basket of delights, a cold bottle of wine, lay back, relax and watch the horse riders meandering along the vineyard paths on their way to enjoying a wine tasting and cellar tour at Mont Rochelle.Open daily from 10:00 to 19:00 (Last seating at 18:00)Dinner Monday and Tuesday at 19:00 (Last seating at 20:30)Closed Wednesday to Sunday for dinner.

So popular was Die Mystic Boer in Bloemfontein that the originators were hard pressed to open another in Stellenbosch that quickly became part of the town's student culture. Die Mystic Boer is Stellies favourite alternative and trendy Afrikaans place to hang out with your mates while you listen to cool tunes, grab hearty pub grub and an ice cold beer and perhaps shoot a few rounds of pool.Delightfully kitsch and tongue in cheek, Die Mystic Boer regularly host live performances and the hottest DJ’s spinning the discs. As well as being a pub and gig venue, Die Mystic Boer is a fully functional restaurant that serves a wide variety of meals from pizzas to burritos to ribs and much more.

The picturesque setting compliments simple and uncomplicated dishes that are full of bold flavours. Classic dishes present fresh and clean tastes, and although simple in appearance, are flavourful with every mouthful. The extensive wine list works effortlessly complimenting the menu. Flavours boast a roaring winter fire, perfect for warming frosty limbs.

Dishes are influenced by the seasons and the flavours are evident with each mouthful. Cradled in the Holden Manz Wine Estate, diners enjoy mouth-watering meals alfresco, amidst vines or within the cosy dining room. Meals resemble homemade dishes, created with simplicity and pureness only achieved from harvesting produce in your own garden. All vegetables and fruits are sourced from the estates own garden while additional produce is sourced from local suppliers. Pamper the palate with international cuisine in a relaxed and idyllic setting in the heart of Franschhoek vally.

Located on the edge of the village and considered a favourite watering hole, the pub and grill is the hub of the village and the relaxed and informal setting makes it a family affair. Children are well entertained with a large play area while adults indulge in hearty pub fare, ice-cold draughts and big screen sports. Friday’s plays host to live music, pushing up the tempo late into the night while ice-cold rounds make way for hearty grills and pub dishes.

Fyndraai is an exciting restaurant with a local twist, on the Solms-Delta wine estate outside Franschhoek. The food, like its adventurous wines, lives up to the Solms-Delta claim of being proudly Hiervandaan (‘from this place’).You not only walk into history in the 325-year-old wine farm restaurant, you walk OVER it. The glass floor covers the archaeological substructure of a 1740 wine cellar.The innovative menu further combines historical ingredients with contemporary tastes. Seasonal menus with daily specials break away from the Franschhoek norm, with food that is “anything but french”. Instead, Fyndraai explores genuine Cape culinary traditions: European, Asian and African. This truly is ‘food of origin’. Enjoy your meal paired with the equally innovative Solms wines that range from the serious and highly rated through unusual to light-hearted quaffers. There’s something for all palates and pockets - by the bottle and the glass. And yes, there is a glossary translating the unfamiliar local names for foreign visitors.Picnic throughout the year in the farm’s enchanting riverside forest. Appetising fresh baskets are available, with delicious vegetarian options.Booking for parties of more than 10 essential and set menus available for groups.Solms-Delta  is the perfect place for a day out in the country. Make sure you include Wine tasting and a visit to the farm Museum van de Caab too - admission to both is free.Fyndraai is open Tuesdays to Saturdays 10.00am to 6.00pm; Sundays and Mondays 10.00am to 5.00pm. Drinks and snacks will be available from 10.00am to 12.00noon, following which lunch will be served.

Lovely views of the farm and mountains combined with good food ensure a sublime indulgence at Genot.Delicious, home-styled and innovative, Genot's kitchen enjoys showcasing the local ingredients of the region, such as snoek, Karoo lamb and several varieties of venison. The menu changes on a weekly basis. If you have a favourite dish, enquire with the chef regarding its availability.Starters include dishes such as Rooikrans-smoked snoek or quiche with apricot chutney and a side salad. Alternatively choose a beef Carpaccio dripping with a rosemary-honey vinaigrette and tomato-rooibos broth.Indulge in a main course of your selection, with options that are carefully divided into seafood, meat and grill options. Your choices include oven baked Kingklip, topped with green pumpkin seeds and fynbos honey, or traditional Cape springbok bobotie with saffron rice and sambals. Or choose from a hearty selection of grilled meats which include sirloin, fillet, kudu and gemsbok, all fairly priced.If you are a vegetarian, Genot provides many options. Why not indulge in delicious risotto cake with chevrin, plum tomatoes, courgettes and red pepper fondue? And do not forget the most important meal of all, namely dessert! Ask for the vanilla pod crème brulee with apricots and an almond koeksister - enough to break the will of any calorie-counter. Need to know? Closed on Mondays, open for lunch only on Sundays.

An incredibly popular spot, especially for a sumptuous Sunday lunch, the Goederust Farm Kitchen is a quaint and scenic spot to relax and enjoy delicious South African cuisine. The decor matches the charming agricultural feel of the venue with tools and old lamps strewn around. Beautiful gardens surround the restaurant with lush green colours and a farm stall offers a variety of treats to take home with you. Try Goederust Farm Kitchen for a true taste of the country with warm hospitality to match.

Java is all about location. Situated at the pulse of Stellenbosch, this spot is ideal for soaking up that special energy that this university town is known for. The laid back and unpretentious atmosphere makes it an accessible lunch or dinner option for those that like easy food. Uncomplicated burgers, pizzas, wraps and sandwiches can be found on the menu and breakfast is served all day. Java cafe also serves up a very decent cup of coffee (living up to its name), which is perfect for those that want to make use of the internet and Wi-Fi terminals.

Laborie definitely knows what it’s doing when it comes to fine South African and contemporary cuisine. Set in an old manor house, al fresco dining on the terrace with wonderful vineyard views is a real pleasure when the weather is warm. Enjoy a wonderful slice of life in the Winelands at Laborie.

Le Pommier Restaurant offers the best in country cuisine filled with flavour. Think traditional South African dishes like Bobotie, Chicken Pie as well as the Golden Delicious Gourmet Burger which is Le Pommier’s specialty. Completely child friendly, the restaurant is perfect for leisurely family lunches. It’s refreshing table settings also make it ideal for intimate dinners. Le Pommier Restaurant has added a wine lounge to its list of offerings – an area where you can enjoy wine tasting while enjoying the views of Stellenbosch’s famous Banhoek Valley. This is the ideal place to sit back and watch your favourite sporting events with your friends. The best part is that the wine lounge will continue to make wines from different Banhoek Estates available to you at Cellar door prices, just like in the previous wine shop.

Lord Neethling Restaurant is situated in the heart of Neethlingshof Wine Estate in the Stellenbosch Winelands. The delicious cuisine and stunning views make for a truly memorable dining experience, combining the very best in South African food and wine. The elegant Lord Neethling Restaurant features spectacular sweeping views over the vineyard and surrounding country from the beautiful outdoor terrace and a warm and relaxed fine dining atmosphere. The setting is simply superb, the food is excellent and the service is friendly. Choose from delightful garden setting of the Palm Terrace which serves a variety of light meals or the Manor House. Built in 1814, the Manor House is now a national monument. The restaurant offers a comprehensive a la carte and light meal menu in the original Manor house, on the veranda in front of the building or in the wine garden under the oak trees.

Experience a decadent taste of the Mediterranean at Marc’s Mediterranean Cuisine and Garden. Wine from the local area features heavily on the well-planned list, as well as wines from further afield. Impeccable service enhances the experience as well as the beautiful setting within an old house. A pretty garden allows for al fresco dining, as does the veranda. A culinary journey to the Med awaits you at Marc’s Mediterranean Cuisine and Garden.

Sprawling lawns and gardens invites alfresco dining under an old Oak tree and roaring log fires warm frosty limbs dining on hearty country cuisine. Nestled on the Morgenhof Wine Farm, the setting captures the senses and essence of the wine lands. The menu invites a la carte lunches and afternoon teas brimming with seasonal produce and lighter options such as salads. Dine in the garden under the age-old Oak tree or within glass walled restaurant dressed in vines, warmed by the winter sunshine and fireplace at the Morgenhof Restaurant in Stellenbosch.

The interior is a Pandora’s box, filled with surprises and dining areas brimming with character and inspiration. Stylish table settings and a restored wine cellar makes for an unforgettable dining experience or alfresco in the charming garden setting. The a la carte menu offers classic choices such as Oxtail, Lamb Shanks or Bobotie, while offering cosmopolitan choices such as pizzas, pasta and salads. Decadent deserts tempt the palate with choices such as Gooseberry Cheesecake or Pistachio Crème Brulee. Discover a culinary gem on Vredenheim Estate in Stellenbosch.

Wilderer Distillery and Ristorante Pappa Grappa, South Africa’s first and onlyproducer of internationally acclaimed Grappa and Eaux de Vie, is an absolute must forpeople who enjoy the good life! With over 50 prestigious International awards,(including “Grappa of the Year” & “Double Gold” at the World Spirits Festival inAustria), Master Distiller Helmut Wilderer has become a true “guru” for connoisseurs around the World.Helmut personally conducts tastings with visitors and lets you in on some of thesecrets that set his quality apart.The Restaurante Pappa Grappa is run by Helmut’s son, Christian, whose love forhospitality and natural charm combines perfectly with the relaxed atmosphereand personal service. His passion for fresh seasonal ingredients, is reflected on theever changing blackboard. Let a member of the Pappa Grappa Team come to yourtable and tell you about the day’s freshest dishes. Try their homemade pasta orfresh fish. Flammkuchen, a pizza speciality from France, remains a must!All in all, world class Grappa and Eaux de Vie, fantastic fresh food, outstandingservice at value for money and a great vibe.

Located along Main Road in Somerset West, Riverside Grill exudes a steakhouse ambiance with spacious and airy interior and a swanky look and feel. Dine along the waters edge dressed in lush Palm Willows enjoying succulent steak or savour the flavour of a hearty homemade burger, topped with delicious homemade sauce made from the owner secret recipe. Riverside Grill by Andreas in a family friendly steakhouse in Somerset West serving only the best cuts of Chalmer Beef, aged to perfection.

Perched on the edge of Franschhoek valley, along the banks of the Berg River, Riverside Restaurant is the ideal family location. Dine alfresco under shady trees enclosed in indigenous forests on delicious meals such as ‘Potjie Kos’ or lighter meals such as open sandwiches or salads. Breathtaking views of Groot Drakenstein Mountains and Wemmer Mountains make an ideal backdrop for a picnic.

Housed inside a historic Cape Dutch homestead, perched on the banks of Earste River, Spier Hotel Restaurant is a comfortable and inviting establishment flanked by garden views, sprawling lawns and the Helderberg Mountain range. The interior pampers with elegant surrounds, large white leather banquet seating and wooden tables contrasted by lime green hues. Whether sitting down for a languid lunch, or seeking relaxation in the lounge bar, or sipping sundowners on the shady terrace, Spier Hotel Restaurant will seduce and meet your expectations promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Located on the Welmoed Wine Farm, The Duck Pond satisfies the palate with hearty cuisine and lighter meals brimming with fresh ingredients. Whether dining indoors or on the sprawling lawns alfresco, the menu will cater light and healthy meals and fine Welgemoed wines.

Take a continental culinary journey at The Goatshed on Fairview Wine Estate. A superb spot to take it easy and relax as you sample the continental delights that this Mediterranean-style eatery has to offer. Wholesome food in hearty portions like chicken pie and lamb curry. The cheese platter is a must-try. A wine list is tailored towards the Estate’s own range but does include bottles from other areas too. Scenic surroundings make for a wonderful setting and children especially will find the resident goats very entertaining. A relaxing dining experience to make the most of, try The Goatshed.

The interior welcomes with a relaxed ambiance, set in the heart of Franschhoek and boasts a comfortable and stylish setting catered for enjoying South African favourites and excellent presentation. The menu brims with succulent steaks and fresh seafood, translated into classic and well-loved dishes, sustainably sourced. A kiddies menu compliments a perfect family day out, enjoyed alongside the covered play area while adults focus on great food, fine wine and comfortable stylish surrounds. Take home some tasty braai meat from the adjacent butchery on your way out!

The Only One restaurant is situated at the entrance of Hartenberg Wine Estate on the Stellenbosch Bottelary wine route. This pleasant eatery is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers visitors country hospitality in a tranquil setting. Choose the cosy interior with two fire places in winter to keep warm while tucking into the restaurant’s special winter menu. Not only does The Only One provide traditional cuisine, one can also savour a glass or two of the estate’s award winning merlot or shiraz. Sunny days certainly call for an outdoor breakfast or lunch on the deck overlooking the pond. The breakfast and lunch menu deliver all the usual favourites: English Breakfasts, Burgers, Salads and the like. The deck is a particularly good spot of families with young children as the enclosed outdoor play area is near by. In the evenings the deck area is also a popular place for sipping sundowners. The restaurant also caters for small weddings and corporate functions.

Located on the Val die Vie Wine Estate, with expansive views of Franschhoek and Paarl Mountains, diners relish in gourmet cuisine and award winning wines from the estate. Whether seeking a intimate experience or a more casual day out with family, The Polo Club caters for all, with a child friendly menu, family dining and outside play area - equipped with a pony and all. Discover fine cuisine, award winning wines and a sophisticated dining experience at The Polo Club in Franschhoek.

Beyerskloof Wine Estate is located in the picturesque wine valley of Stellenbosch. The Wine Estate has firmly established itself as one of the best Pinotage producers in the country, making wine lovers happy all round. Now foodies can also join the club and visit the estate for a relaxed breakfast or lunch at the Red Leaf Restaurant. The bistro style eatery is casual and family friendly. The red and white interior is unpretentious and allows guests to soak up the fantastic view of the farm’s vineyards and unwind while delighting in the menu. The menu, like the wine farm, is preoccupied with Pinotage. Be sure to try items such as the Pinotage Burger, Pinotage Salami and even Pinotage Frozen Yoghurt. There is also a choice of grills, sandwiches, curries and salads to choose from. Wine lovers can compliment their meal with a choice of six versions of Beyerskloof’s signature Pinotage to round things off. The restaurant is also open for breakfast.

Lunch might be over when the distant orange-pink mountains change hue. But that doesn't mean you have to leave.Take a seat on a sunny wooden deck that reaches right into the vines of Rickety Bridge Wine Estate. Sip a glassful of crisp estate wine and redefine the concept of a picnic in the Summer. Every gourmet parcel unwraps new delights. The Restaurant in the Vines offers a unique dining experience, sit on the deck or laze on the lawn in the heart of the vineyard and enjoy a Cape inspired gourmet picnic.In winter, the fare is hot and hearty - home-cooked soups, traditional curries and casseroles.Children also have a menu to keep them satisfied.Every creation from the team of expert chefs is given extra zest by the striking splendour of the setting.Rickety Bridge is an enchanting Franschhoek wine estate that earns its place in the Cape's cuisine capital. Taste their celebrated wines on leather fireside couches. Stay over in one of the luxurious Manor House rooms, embraced in two centuries of history, and discover one certainty. During every moment spent on this side of the bridge, you won't want to be anywhere else in the world.Need to know? Opening Times:Monday - Sunday 11:00 - 16:30.

Located within the clubhouse, the all day dining menu offers light meals and South African cuisine with a touch of International flair. Signature dishes are the order of the day, best enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the extravagant pool and spectacular mountain ranges of Paarl and Franschhoek.

Eaglevlei Estate in the stunning Stellenbosch winelands is home to The Vineyard Kitchen. Don’t be misled to equate the restaurant’s name with old fashioned farm food. Here patrons are promised a menu that reads like gastronomic adventure. Chef Herbie van Schalkwyk aims to wow guests with food that is created to “satisfy the entire palate at once”. The menu is as daring as it is exciting: a unique interpretation of Traditional South African Cuisine. Expect menu items to the likes of Snoek Bobotie with coconut risotto, apricot cocktail, caramelised banana mash potatoes and chilli jam; or Ostrich steak with sweet potato cake, peppadew puree, walnut and Amarula sauce. Desserts are equally dreamy with Trio of South Africa: a cocktail Milktart, Koeksister ice-cream, caramelised banana and Pinotage Crème Brûlée. Although the Vineyard Kitchen dares one with its latest menu inventions it does not fail to cater more simply for the less adventurous (burgers and tappas) and children (hotdogs with smilely - face chips). The beauty of the farm is a breath-taking back drop and makes The Vineyard Kitchen a great location for marvellous meal.

Warwick Wine Estate is located on the R44 between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch and has become a popular picnic venue. The estate is versatile in that, although it is the perfect romantic spot, it is also child friendly. There are a few picnic areas to choose from. The courtyard has tables and chairs and a shady area where the kids can play. The lawn area is all umbrellas, mattresses and cushions overlooking the dam and lunching in such comfort is almost sinful. There are also picnic pods. Visitors who would like to host a more private party can reserve the “penthouse’ picnic location that is set on the hill, overlooking the stunning scenery of the farm. Expect a quirky, but cleverly packed and delicious picnic basket by award winning chef Bruce Robertson. The boxes and containers are treat to open. Discover the likes of Biltong and Brandy pate, Baguettes wrapped in “Warwick News” newspaper, salads and cold meats and even a helping of Tomato Bredie. A selection from the estate’s wines rounds off the picnic experience. Guests are encouraged to take time for a tasting, and try the lovely wines that Warwick has on offer. Booking is essential.

Wilderer Distillery, winner of over 50 of the world’s most prestigious awards, including Grappa of the Year and Double Gold at the World Spirits Festival in Austria. Helmut Wilderer has become a true 'guru' for connoisseurs around the world and personally conducts tastings. Ristorante Pappa Grappa is run by Helmut’s son, Christian, whose passion for fresh seasonal ingredients, is reflected in his traditional German and Italian dishes. Try their homemade pastas, fresh fish or the parmesan feast; eating fresh pasta out of a 20 kg parmesan cheese. Flammkuchen, a pizza speciality from France, remains a must. All-in-all this is world-class grappa and eaux de vie, fantastic fresh food, outstanding service at value for money and a great vibe; a rare combination!

Set in the lovely Somerset West, Yamas Green Taverna is a superb little gem that exudes a typical Cretan tavern ambiance. Expect tiny tables and chairs scattered throughout and faded photographs with Greek artifacts and a warm and personal touch. Dine on great meze platters laden with tzatziki, taramasalata, hummus, pickled octopus, baby meatballs, skordalia – all rich with garlic and herbs enjoyed with moerish pitas. Move on to lamb, fragrant with lemon and rosemary, served with pita or crunchy potato wedges or indulge in a lovely chicken pita or succulent calamari tentacles or strips. Round off your meal with a bowl of yoghurt and honey or ultra-rich, homemade baklava. Sip on ouzo served in an authentic glass amphora or enjoy wine from the small but well priced wine list.