Stellenbosch Restaurants

Once upon a time, long long ago, there was a beautiful Victorian house in a small, romantic little town. It was situated at number 5 Ryneveld Street - a place we now call home. When conceptualizing our new restaurant, we became aware of the special qualities of the number five. Five is the number of harmony and balance. Five is the number of perfection. Five is the number of senses in the human body - touch, taste, smell, hearing and sight. Five is the number of basic tastes - sweet, sour, salt, bitter and umami. Our restaurant comprises five rooms namely the dining room, study, library, bedroom and radio lounge. We welcome you to 5 Ryneveld, where we will provide you with an exciting dining experience, stimulating your five senses by exploring the five basic tastes. 5 Ryneveld is a cute and quirky meeting place for those embracing a playful and sophisticated atmosphere. It will be shaped by the friends, family and other warm-hearted people who meet, eat and play there. Welcome home...welcome to 5 Ryneveld.

Stellenbosch’s Kayamandi (an informal settlement area) may not scream location- location- location for restaurant venue, but is home to AmaZink Eatery. The restaurant delivers a novel African eating experience that embraces and simultaneously invests in the local Stellenbosch community. The African theme of the restaurant is seen through to every detail. The décor is bold and loud in colour and service is hearty and friendly. All the traditional fare is unpretentious and prepared on wood burning fires. Even the beer is home brewed. Expect local favourites like pap and wors, but perhaps not quite as rustic as authenticity demands. With Bertus Basson (celebrity chef and co-owner of Overture Restaurant) overseeing the menu, there is a definite contemporary take on the local delicacies. The restaurant offers a wine list that supports farmers in the immediate vicinity. With prominent businessmen investing, AmaZink Eatery forms part of the Ikhaya Trust Centre and is driven to make a contribution to the social uplifting of the area. Inline with the venture’s policy, only locals to Kayamandi are employed at AmaZink.

Apprentice Restaurant, formally known as L’Olive, situated on Stellenbosch’s bustling Andringa Street, is a sought after dining establishment. Home to the Culinary Institute, this restaurant offers food that appeals to the senses. The restaurant is training school for students who have chosen cooking as a career, but patrons would be far off the mark to expect anything less than being plated up food of exceptional quality. Not only is breakfast, lunch and dinner served in style, the décor of the eatery is bright and inviting in a relaxed upmarket manner, however, the best seats remain out of house on the pavement, where guests can soak up the Stellenbosch vibe. The dinner menu is offers a selection of meat dishes from Lamb Rump, Kudu Loin to Quail. Desserts are wickedly decadent with impossible to resist choices like Chocolate Marble Pavlova and Tiramisu with Rum and Espresso. Since the restaurant is a learning arena, the menu also has a glossary of terms (in case the menu is all French to you).

Aristata Restaurant forms part of the Protea Hotel in Technopark Stellenbosch. Expect a full buffet breakfast menu as well as menus for lunch and dinner. Much can be said of the restaurant’s scenic location. It commands splendid views of the picturesque surroundings and has an outdoor deck for sipping sundowners and taking early evening meals. A range of snacks and light meals are also served throughout the day. For those that require some formality, the indoor dining area calls for a smarter dress code in its subtle, yet sophisticated setting. With a menu that offers traditional South African fare, guests can enjoy the overall experience of Aristata. Diners may round off their meal with the best of wine that is sourced locally. The restaurant also makes for an ideal venue, be it for a wedding or a corporate function.

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.

Combine contemporary and vibey, add great splashes of colour and a crowd pleasing menu and you have the recipe to what makes Beads restaurant tick. Beads is conveniently situated in the centre of town, making it an easy, if not irresistible, stop for after work drinks and eats. The sultry Stellenbosch summer calls for the French doors to be flung open and tables to be set outside, while winters become rather cosy with fireplaces in every room. The modern fusion style menu is all about variety, catering for all tastes and appetites. Wraps, pastas, Oxtail Potjie and even finger foods (as a complement to the cocktails) are part of the fare. The wines comprise a local selection of which Dalla Cia features prominently. Whether for breakfast with a colleague, lunch with a lover or dinner with friends - Beads extensive menu and upmarket atmosphere has secured itself a place on the restaurant map. And just to prove that they are committed to pleasing just about everyone, Beads also offers a Kids Menu.

If it’s an Indian fix that needs satisfying while visiting scenic Stellenbosch, then Bukhara is the obvious choice. Conveniently situated at centre of town, Bukhara is a stylish restaurant that offers a selection of North Indian cuisine. The restaurant chain is consistent with its upmarket and vibey atmosphere. The trade mark open kitchen allows guests to be privy to the making of their meal as well and serves as a source of background entertainment. The menu has a good variety, including South African game options and caters for the carnivores and vegetarians alike. Expect authentic, traditional Indian food: Butter Chicken, Garlic Naan and Mango ice cream. The Kashmiri style kebabs cooked over hot coals is a restaurant speciality and a must try. The exotic Indian dining experience is rounded off with a few dishes with interesting flavours to entice the adventurous palate and a notable wine list.

Café Dijon is a pocket of Paris in the heart of Stellenbosch. Ideally located at the centre of town, this quaint eatery is a gem for food lovers who enjoy true French cuisine. Its indoor café is perfectly Parisian in décor and ambience while being seated outside, under ancient oak trees and umbrellas, allows for a relaxed reflection of passers-by on the street in true European style. Expect an impressive and authentic French menu. There are classic hors d’ oeuvres and salads such as Pear, Parma ham and Gorgonzola that are designed to please the palate. The main course selection and restaurant specialties are extended to include regional French dishes to the likes of South West of France Cassoulet. The multi-dimensional menu has an array of asides and desserts and caters well for those who like to round off their eating experience. The combination of true French style and food makes this bistro style establishment a delight any time of day – breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Celebrate Coffee Shop is located in the center of Stellenbosch. We are conveniently situated in Eikestad Mall, so you can do all your shopping and end it off with a delicious cup of coffee. We have a large variety of delicious meals on our menu, definitely something for everybody to enjoy. Breakfasts, burgers, light lunches and pizzas are some of the options to ease your hunger. In the evenings we offer a full wine list and cocktails. Wednesdays we feature live music. The perfect venue to start a party.

Listed as one of the Top 15 Fabulous Restaurants by Eat Out Magazine, makes Cognito restaurant in Stellenbosch a must try eating establishment. It is sophisticated and all things African with its menu and décor and offers visitors an eating experience that embodies local hospitality. The East and South African inspired menu is as diverse as it is exciting. It is a contemporary interpretation of traditional dishes. From nibbles like curry dusted popcorn and starters to full main courses, the menu caters for all supermbly, including children. Patrons are encouraged to enquire as to the latest flavour combinations when it comes to steak and poultry choices as the mains are constantly being reinvented. Wine enthusiasts will also not be disappointed with great regional selection of wines on offer and are encouraged to sign up for the restaurant’s food and wine pairing evenings. The social evenings are geared at having the guests’ imput on new wines and dishes to be included on the menu. Foodies will also not be able to resist the popular Curry Mondays (when all the curries are riduculously discounted to one price).

Col’Cacchio Pizzeria is set at the Simonsplein Centre, a vibrant location at the centre of the university town of Stellenbosch. The eatery offers a selection of pizzas, pastas and salads that is a cut about the rest when it comes to variety and versatility. In keeping with a European feel, the restaurant opens onto a quaint courtyard with a fountain for dining outside on laid back, true Capetonian – style days. The indoor section is inviting with its rust coloured and art filled walls, creating a relaxed atmosphere where good food can be enjoyed to the maximum. Expect a selection of as much as fifty pizzas to choose from, each with their own Italian name and signature crisp thin base. Choices range from the traditional to the gourmet. Col’Cacchio is certainly a treat for the health conscious as many of the menu offerings are endorsed by the heart foundation. Patrons that are allergy sensitive will be suitably impressed with the wheat-free varieties on offer. Furthermore, the restaurant chain is committed to procuring organic ingredients where possible. Popular, rather exotic, menu choices include the Tre Colori with smoked salmon, sour cream and caviar, and the Fantasia with caramelized onion, Brie, and sesame seeds. The restaurant also has an award winning wine list.

Stellenbosch Simonsig Wine Estate boasts the elegant Cuvee restaurant. Located at the one of the starting points of the Stellenbosch wine route, this eatery serves all the best loved South African dishes with plenty of ambiance to set the mood for a good meal out. The restaurant is cosy with its old school Cape Dutch décor and offers a seasonal menu to match. All dishes may be ordered as half or full portions, which suits the undecided who want some of this with some of that. Traditionalists will be soothed with the likes of loin of Kalahari Springbok or flame grilled fillet of beef with roasted vine tomatoes, while others may be tickled by Cape Malay Bobotie samosas with Malmesbury yoghurt and Antoinette Malan’s Muscat jam. Not forgetting that the wine farm is famous for its Méthode Cap Classique (making sparkling wine in the French tradition), be sure to sample some bubbly with starters. The establishment also has an additional area for private functions. The Van Niekerk Room is modern, sleek and sophisticated and accommodates parties of thirty or more.

Do not be misled by the rustic ring to De Volkskombuis’ name. There is nothing even remotely unpolished about this establishment. The restaurant has been around since 1977 and has earned its reputation as a place of fine dining. The Cape Dutch house - that is the restaurant - is a perfect puzzle piece in historic Stellenbosch with its white washed walls and front garden. The restaurant also has its Voorkamer which serves as a private dining room for special occasions, conferences and private parties. Guests will be thrilled to find that although the menu boasts a fresh interpretation of traditional South African cuisine, none of the authenticity of the old favourites like Boland Bobotie, Braised Oxtail and Malva Pudding is lost. Furthermore, the menu has wine suggestions with each dish – a treat for wine and food pairing enthusiasts. Not only does De Volkskombuis promise a gastronomic experience of note, but also an impressive, if not, wildly indulgent, wine and beverage selection that could hold one’s attention for hours. Choose from the best locally and internationally sourced wines of every blend, including sparkling wines and Champagne. A selection of cigars rounds off the restaurant’s offerings. De Volkskombuis is open daily for lunch and dinner.

At Delaire Graff the breath-taking beauty of the Stellenbosch surroundings serves as a feast for the eyes. Visitors are certain to experience an igniting of the senses whether it is for lunch, under the canopy of oak trees, or for an intimate dinner in the designer interior of the restaurant. The cuisine and general feel of this fine dining establishment is best described as approachable. Delaire Graff has a clean cut elegance, plated and otherwise, which is sophisticatedly understated. The food is fresh and robust with all the emphasis on flavour. While the lunch menu is light, the dinner offerings demonstrate a decadent balance of delicate presentation and bold, vibrant flavours. Expect the menu to change regularly in order to exploit the best of the freshest vegetable, herb, seafood and cheese offerings that the farm and local specialty producers provide. Signature offerings include Crayfish Lasagne with king oyster mushrooms and Pistachio Nougat served with rose geranium ice cream. Dishes are rounded off with a selection of Delaire wines and guests can choose a special food and wine pairing menu. Be sure to take the time for a fabulous wine tasting in the stunning Tasting Lounge.

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.

For something a little more laid back and funky try Fandango Café and Cocktail Bar. Situated right at the pulse of Stellenbosch town centre on Bird Steet, this establishment is a great location for sitting back and soaking up the Stellenbosch vibe while enjoying a bite to eat. Fandango is more than just an eatery. Not only is the café also an internet spot but it also specializes in bicycle rentals – believing that cycling is the best way to appreciate the picturesque quality of the town. The café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a wide menu selection to choose from. Favourites amongst regulars include the Prawn Stir fry and asides such as potato bake keep hungry patrons smiling. The freshly baked puddings are also hard to resist. The wine selection has more then 45 wines to choose from, catering for all preferences. Summer nights at Fandango calls for exotic cocktails and entertainment. Visitors will relish in the relaxed atmosphere of the Jazz and Blues evenings. Fandango offers a variety of evening entertainment throughout the year.

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.

Genki Sushi certainly lives up to its name, because the Japanese term ‘genki’ translates to ‘Fine or Great’. This authentic Japanese Sushi restaurant offers its visitors a delicious slice into typical everyday Japanese cuisine while soaking up the Stellenbosch vibe. In keeping with its eastern style, the restaurant is not all table and chairs, though such seating is available outside. The Sushi bar, complete with sushi chefs working alongside the owner of the establishment, is the best seat in the house for a quick bite while marvelling at the art of sushi preparation and negotiating chop sticks, wasabi and soy sauce. More than just sushi, Genki Sushi also offers patrons a great selection of Japanese style tappas and side dishes to the likes of tako sunomono (boiled octopus salad with wakame and cucumber), yakitori and a South African inspired kudu-shi which is thinly sliced kudu meat served with sushi rice. The restaurant also has a small selection of wines to complement its food. Located at the very heart of town activity, Genki Sushi is an ideal spot for a Far East eating experience.

The lighthearted and intimate atmosphere makes an ideal setting for indulging in specialized Japanese and Thai cuisine. Enjoy favourites such as delicious sushi platters, noodles or even something grilled. Alongside sushi and grills, you can try Tempura, satay, Thai, stir-fry and Teppen Yaki. Golden Wheat Japanese Restaurant is a warm and welcoming restaurant located in Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch.

The breathtaking Banhoek Valley is a home to Zorgvleit Wine Estate. Located on the perimeter of Stellenbosch, this wine estate boasts The Herenhuis restaurant with a historic presence that dates back to 1692 and offers patrons gourmet renditions of traditional South African cuisine. Much of the charm of the establishment is embedded in its history. The homestead of the farm that houses the restaurant has been meticulously restored with every effort to retain the original ceilings structures. This aspect paired with the paintings (specially commissioned to capture the beauty of the farm) creates a particular ambiance that has guests feel transported to a time gone by. Chef Darius van Rensburg and owner Marietjie van der Merwe combined forces to forge a menu that is a fresh interpretation of the traditional. Popular dishes on the summer menu include the crayfish cocktail and the linguine with smoked mountain trout. The wine estate’s deli also caters for traditional picnics to be taken under its oak trees, while Sundays afford family and friends braai (barbeque) picnic options. The restaurant also has a selection of award winning wines from its own farm on offer. Booking for lunch or dinner is recommended.

If one finds oneself meandering through the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch then Hazendal Wine Estate’s Hermitage Restaurant is a good choice for fine food and wine tasting. The dining area of the restaurant has the prefect combination of comfort and sophistication. In winter intimate post dinner drinks and wine tastings can be taken in front of the fire place while the court yard is available on warmer days. The view of the working cellar behind the glass walls adds a hint of modernity to an otherwise classical setting. The painted ceiling and piano is a splendid touch in creating the ambience of the establishment. Hermitage offers patrons a generous slice of South African cuisine with a dollop of Russian flair. Menu items include a Traditional Cape Malay Platter with Bobotie, Chicken Pie and Lamb Curry, Ostrich Carpaccio and Austrian Chocolate Mousse that is infused with an orange liqueur. Hazendal also has a Russian Museum as a place of interest and caters for picnics (includes eats for the kids) on a booking basis.

Indochine is an upmarket Asian fusion restaurant found on the Delaire Graff Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. It is the sister restaurant to the more established Delaire Restaurant also located on the farm. The wine estate surroundings and the natural beauty of the Stellenbosch district sets the mood for a delightful dining out experience. The restaurant itself is understatedly modern and sophisticated with leather couches and copper top tables. The open plan design also has a fireplace with couches if one chooses to take pre- dinner drinks. The Asian fusion menu is inspired by local organic ingredients. Food lovers will enjoy the attention to detail from Italian cutlery to the plated art – that is the food. The chef’s interaction with guests about the dishes he has designed, is a personal touch that adds dimension to the dining experience. Menu options include 2, 3, 4 or 5 courses. The wine list offers a good selection of locally and internationally sourced labels, but only Delaire’s wines are offered by the glass. Be sure to take a moment and admire the Cheetah sculptures, by well known sculptor Dylan Lewis, at the entrance.

Another Stellenbosch winery has lured an award winning chef to put its eatery on the culinary map. Chef George Jardine now heads up ‘Jordan Restaurant with George Jardine’ on the Jordan wine Estate. The establishment’s name may be a mouthful which in turn serves as a fairly accurate take on the food too – mouthfuls of deliciousness. Food enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the fine dining experience on offer here. The restaurant offers set menus to choose from, ensuring orchestrated flavours and textures above all else. Guests can opt for two, three or four courses, all with or without specific wine pairings to compliment the dishes. Although the menu is changeable to in order to really get the best out of seasonal produce, one can expect to be tantalized with The duck liver parfait to start. The mains are exciting, with the likes of Penny Verburg’s Suckling Pig Roasted and a lavish baked pudding with Pimm’s Creme Catalan. The wine list is not limited to only Jordan’s Wines, but also has a good local selection and a broad spectrum price range. One is permitted to bring one’s own wine (limited to a single bottle) subject to a corkage fee. The restaurant is open for lunch Wednesdays to Sundays and for dinner Thursdays and Fridays.

La Pineta is a charming eatery nestled in the Stellenbosch wine-lands. With a lovely bit of history attached to it, it’s difficult not to drawn to dine on the restaurant terrace and embrace the relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant is located in the old “Louw se Bos” a pine forest where romantic picnics were once the order of the day. It is told that the forest had a very special quality in forging long lasting relationships. A visit to La Pineta is nothing short of captivating Guests will appreciate the versatile menu and unpretentious food on offer. With a range of starters, mains and dessert, La Pineta proves itself capable to catering for all tastes. Menu items include a great selection of starters to the likes of salads and delicacies like Brandy Flambe’ed Chicken Livers and Carpaccio of Beef. Expect traditional favourites for mains: Oxtail, Lamb Shank and Crispy Duck. With mouth watering desserts to complete the meal, patrons will certainly consider a second visit to La Pineta. Wine lovers will be happy to make a choice from the restaurant’s locally sourced wines while the cocktail menu will entice the young at heart.

Lafayette is perfectly placed along the oak lined Andringa Street in Stellenbosch. The restaurant is a cosy, intimate eatery that offers an Italian bistro style food with no shortage of wines to choose from. Lafayette achieves in creating an atmosphere that is warm and welcoming. One has a choice of seating. Dine indoors at winter time in the rustic Italian setting of the restaurant or outside in the courtyard around the open fire on a balmy summer’s evening, either way Lafayette’s intimate setting is all about romance. The Tuscan inspired menu calls for all foods to be home made. Expect extravagant pasta to the likes of ravioli with spinach and ricotta in a blue cheese, bacon and yoghurt sauce. Other dishes include local speciality dishes of tripe, vegetable stew with warm tabouleh, and rich Tuscan style soups. On Thursday evenings guests are treated to an outdoor fire from which the evening’s meals are cooked. The restaurant has a wide selection of wines by the glass as well per bottle.

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.

Easily accessible by any account, yet a drive out to Haskell Vineyards’ Long Table Restaurant may feel slightly off the beaten track. In this case, though, it’s more like following the red brick road to a secluded spot where subtle sophistication meets wine estate ambiance. The shaded terrace is the perfect place to soak up the picturesque view of Stellenbosch on a summer’s day, while the indoor fireplace and the Long Table (seats 12) will keep the party quite content in moodier weather. The breakfast menu has an exciting individualist flare and caters for all preferences. Expect to be tantalized by offerings of Breakfast Trifle, Tunisian Adja and French Toast Pockets amongst the traditional. The lunch menu is varied, complete with starters, light meals, mains and dessert. Choices range from simple to sophisticated with Duck and Quail for those who crave something a little different. The wine list is a treat for wine lovers and comprises the farm’s own Dombeya Wines and Haskell Vineyards offerings including the Samara (Double Gold Winner Michelangelo Awards 2008) and the Boulder Road Shiraz (Gold Medal Best in Class Winner - 2008 International Wine and Spirits Awards). Meal portions are generous, offering good value for money. A bonus for those who would like to make lunch more of an outing is the opportunity for wine tasting in the restaurant’s foyer.

The Majeka Restaurant forms part Majeka House, a five star Boutique Hotel in Paradyskloof, Stellenbosch. The restaurant is a fairly new establishment and is unashamedly French in feel and character. The intimate dining area, with its chandeliers and piano, leads onto the library, giving the restaurant an enchanting European flair. Flowers from the hotel garden adds a light homely touch. The menu is diverse and offers a Tasting option of two sample dishes per course or the a la carte selection which has five choices per course. The menu also has wine pairing suggestions with each dish. Expect to be tantalised with delicacies such as Seared Springbok Loin and Buttered Kabbeljou for mains. And definitely do not pass on dessert with Millefeuille of chocolate mousse and Pear Crumble with Vanilla Cream that will have one savouring each bite. The wines are predominantly from the Stellenbosch region with Tamboerskloof Syrah and Dalla Cia amongst others. Wines are also available per glass.

Mamma Roma, an Italian eatery chain, can now also be found in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch. Located at Stellenbosch Square and overlooking the vineyards makes for an authentic Italian setting which is relaxed. The interior has a double volume ceiling and stone walls to create a country house feel, while the mural feature enhances the European character of the establishment. The crisp white linen sets off the dark wooded furnishings in simple sophistication. Add to that, the fantastic views that the restaurant offers- it has all the makings for the perfect mood, be it for a light lunch or a quiet dinner for two. The menu is extensive with plenty pasta dishes that range from sausage to seafood. On its own, the seafood selection is impressive with firm favourites such as the Fritto Misto which is a combination of Kingklip, Calamari and Prawns. Other house specialties which come highly recommended include the Rack of Lamb and the Baby Beef. Mamma Roma can also be found in Newlands and Steenberg.

MANA restaurant forms part of MANA Guest Cottage Accommodation. The Establishment is ideally located on JC Le Roux, a working sparkling wine farm situated just on the outskirts of historic Stellenbosch. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with spectacular views of the farm’s merlot, pinot noir and cabernet vineyards. The menu offers contemporary fusion cuisine. The restaurant is open Monday - Saturday for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, and on Sundays for Lunch. Be sure to book ahead for a unique sparkling wine tasting at the JC Le Roux cellar.

Wander through a souq of spices and exotically heady aromas. This adventure will take you through the Savannas of the South, along the Coasts of the East, across the Deserts of the North and into the Jungles of the West on a gastronomic journey. Your taste buds will be tempted with the sweet scent of coriander and fresh aroma of rose petals; cumin, paprika and saffron spice. Moyo offers a diverse and eclectic a la carte menu and an abundant communal set menu to inspire you to explore the sophistication of African cuisine - your invitation to the feast. A feast set to the rhythm of the music Moyo Productions searches Africa for the best of local, international and new talent. Colorful costumes, dramatic acts and the fancy footwork of dancers will ensure that each guest leaves the restaurant surprised and delighted. Through praise poetry and story telling we move to a broader understanding of African celebration, rights, rituals and memories. With a song on the lips of the Wishy-washy Ladies you will be welcomed to the age old tradition of the African hand-washing and face painting ceremony.

A restaurant that offers Oemf: Outstanding Excellence More Frequently. This “eethuis” (eating house), located in a small business park off Dorp Street Stellenbosch, delivers genuine, wholesome food that calls for seconds. The restaurant is has a Victorian elegance with its wooden floors, solid wood furnishings and feminine touches. The sound of bird chatter in the background adds a certain homely charm to the place. It is a restaurant with many faces. Not only is it a relaxed spot for local office workers to grab a bite or a coffee, but it is also an alternative to take-away dinners. The wholesome, home-style cooked meals may be collected on pre order to be taken home and enjoyed. What a pleasure! The menu changes on a weekly basis and regular visitors are kept one step ahead by having the menu emailed to them on Mondays. Besides the regular menu items, there is also a range of snack like options to compliment after work drinks at the bar. And if what one is after is not the menu? Patrons are at liberty to request dishes to satisfy in- the- moment cravings. Thursdays are Malay inspired with curries, samoosas, and other favourites. Oemf Eethuis is a one stop, all stop spot that hits the spot every time.

In its name, Overture Restaurant alludes to “An introduction to great things”. This exquisite eating establishment is set on the equally breathtaking wine farm, Hidden Valley, in the quaint Stellenbosch countryside. The menu is small and select, if not subject to change daily, to make the most of local seasonal produce. With award winning chef Bertus Basson running the show, patrons will certainly feel indulged in the culinary experience the restaurant offers. The menu caters for the sophisticated palate with dishes to the likes of Duck Liver Parfait (to start), Confit Lamb Shoulder or Silverfish (for mains) and Date and Rum Souffle for dessert. All menu items are paired and complimented with wines selected from the farm. For the foodies who eat to be swept away by the flow of flavours (not mention the eating with the eyes), Overture offers 3, 4 and 5 course menus (with or without wine). Feel free to take the advice of the in house sommelier, should one be undecided about wine choices. Overture has been listed as one of Eat Out Magazine’s Top Ten Restaurants for the past two years.

The classic European style cuisine embraces simplistic dining flanked by spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque dam and vineyards. Additional dining rooms offer intimate or romantic dining choices while the menu seduces with signature favourites. Dishes include classics like Orange Cured Salmon and Chalmar Beef Fillet (succulent piece of grain-fed South African Chalmer Beef) served with a herb crust and red wine jus. Expect five star services and fine wine at Raphael’s in Stellenbosch.

The menu brims with traditional dishes, boasting extensive choices of South African cuisine with hints of Cape Malay and International flavours. Dine alfresco in the vine covered garden exploring the unique flavours and warm hospitality, alongside a discerning wine list at Restaurant 1802.

The Restaurant at Clos Malverne achieves a laid back country feel while being an upmarket establishment. It provides its patrons with the three essential ingredients to any eating out experience: an unpretentious ambiance, a stunning location and sophisticated gastronomy. The restaurant is a new addition to the wine estate, but has already impressed with its obvious focus on hospitality and fantastic globally inspired food. Visitors will be hard pressed to choose from the menu’s extensive offerings. Start with a Chicken, Asparagus and Citrus salad which is delicately rounded off with a pistachio dressing or the Tempura Prawns. For mains, meat lovers can go all out on the Grilled Fillet, with a selection of exciting sauces to choose from. Other traditional fare includes Oxtail, Lamb Curry and Lamb Shank. All dishes have wine suggestions and pairings from Clos Malverne’s own vineyards and are properly rounded off with a dessert menu. The trio of Crème Brulee is quite irresistible while the Chocolate Fondant will satisfy the chocoholic. The restaurant receives patrons on select evenings, so calling ahead is advised.

This French eatery is ideally situated on the lovely tree lined Ryneveld Street in Stellenbosch. Housed in the ‘Skuinshius’ along with a coffee and décor shop, Restaurant Christophe seems to have carved itself a permanent corner in a town that is fast becoming a culinary capital in the Western Cape. The restaurant consists of two rooms. The front dining area is small space with just a few settings for those who prefer a quiet space while the second room is much larger and can be considered as the main dining area. The mood of the place is perfectly created with sedated elegance in crisp white linen, splashes of colour and wine barrel chairs. Fresh flowers add a personal feel to the setting. The menu, a typed sheet on a clipboard, may seem understated and in sharp contrast to the bright, elegant setting. Dishes are simple and true to French Bitro style cuisine, with the focus on fresh ingredients and clean presentation. The starter selection is small, but covers all bases from Foie Gras to Quail Salad. Mains include a choice in fish, steak and duck. The desserts are light but designed to round off the meal. Native Frenchman Chef Christophe Dehosse made a name for himself at Joostenberg Deli before opening Restaurant Christophe in Stellenbosch.

If an art rich dining room with a cosy fireplace entices for a French inspired dinner or a shady terrace on a gorgeous Stellenbosch wine farm sounds like just the spot for a summer’s lunch, then Rozendal is has “pick me!” written all over it. The restaurant is housed in the wine farm’s 150 year old Manor House. Here guests can sit back and appreciate the canvassed walls of the dining hall while sipping wine near the fire place in winter. Warm summer days call for outdoor seating which offers wine farm beauty and tranquillity. The menu is best described as having a firm French Provencal basis as well as a focus on all things natural. Guests can enjoy the best of local, organic and, where possible, free range ingredients in the dishes designed for the set menu. There are three or four courses on offer. All meals begin with a treat: an aperitif of the farm’s internationally acclaimed Rozendal Drinking Vinegar. The farm’s unfiltered Bordeaux Blend wine comes highly recommended and reservations for lunch or dinner are essential.

One of South Africa's top restaurants, Terroir opened its doors in 2004 and over the years has become one of the most sought-after gourmet destinations in the Cape Winelands, placing Stellenbosch prominently on the culinary map. The restaurant is located on Kleine Zalze, a family owned wine farm that has risen to prominence both in South Africa and internationally thanks in particular to its award-winning chenin blanc and shiraz. Set under historic oak trees with views over the De Zalze golf course and surrounding gardens and vineyards, the atmosphere is both refined and relaxed. It’s the perfect environment in which to enjoy a fine meal matched to excellent wines. The unpretentious ambience and dressed-down décor belie multi award-winning chef Michael Broughton’s rigorously disciplined approach to food. Classic pairings and intense depth of flavour characterize the chalkboard menu of ‘deceptively simple’ dishes influenced by what’s in season and, where possible, the use of locally grown fresh produce. Care and emphasis is placed on matching the food to specific wines produced at Kleine Zalze, in the Stellenbosch region and further afield. Terroir’s ongoing success has brought with it a string of prestigious awards, including the Eat Out Johnny Walker ‘Restaurant of the Year 2006’, Eat Out ‘Service Excellence Award 2006’, Eat Out ‘Top 10 Restaurant’ 2005 and 2006, Dine (Wine magazine) ‘Top 10 Restaurant’ in 2005, 2006 and 2007, Best of Wine Capitals of the World South African Wine Tourism Restaurant of the Year 2006 and Honours at the 2008 Prudential Eat Out Restaurant Awards.

Stellenbosch is almost synonymous with good wine and it's no surprise that this is where Ernie Els has chosen to open his brand new restaurant, The Big Easy, named after the man himself. The Big Easy is situated in the historical oak tree lined Dorp Street inside an elegant Cape Dutch-style house called La Gratitude. Built in 1798, this grande old lady is a combination of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture and has been tastefully renovated to provide the home for Ernie Els’s new signature eating spot. Here you can enjoy the finest cuisine prepared with the freshest ingredients inlaid-back luxury with a hint of history.The Big Easy Wine Bar and Restaurant offers a wide selection of more than 170 fine wines from the Stellenbosch region to complement their superlative food. In addition, new discoveries from the local wine industry will please the most discerning connoisseur. The most exciting news is that patrons will be able to enjoy wines from the cellars of the owners, at a cost that does not bear additional mark-ups.