The Best Restaurants in Franschhoek 2017 By Tamlyn Ryan

Franschhoek boasts some of the finest wine estates and classiest

restaurants in the land.

This exclusive winelands town, situated just 75 kilometres from Cape Town, is famed for its Huguenot

heritage, exquisite Cape Dutch architecture, prestigious wine estates (many of which include luxury

accommodation), and an ever-expanding foodscape that includes world-class restaurants and fabulous cafés.

Big news is that the brand-new Reuben’s has swung open its doors in its spangly new spot just off the main

road, with another big-name restaurant set to open nearby in August 2017. Brought to us by the acclaimed La

Colombe chefs, Scot Kirton and James Gaag, La Petite Colombe will be moving into the home formerly

occupied by The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français. And then there’s La Paris Deli and Restaurant, set to

open in October 2017 on La Paris Estate.

In the meantime, though, enjoy what’s on offer at these stellar eateries…

1. FOLIAGE

Opened by forager and nose-to-tail enthusiast Chris Erasmus in 2014, Foliage has added a certain culinary

clout to the town’s already feted gastronomic scene. The reputation Chris gained at Pierneef à la Motte (voted

one of the Top 10 restaurants in the country in 2013) has followed him to Foliage, and is reflected in his

eclectic menu.

The food Locally sourced and foraged ingredients are the focus of Chris’s flavourful, contemporary dishes.

His attention to detail, and the timing of the procession of finely crafted dishes is extraordinary.

The vibe The tastefully decorated interior (neutrals with pops of bright red), a fireplace for cosy winter

evenings, and seating on the stoep for overflow diners creates a welcoming vibe.

X factor The open kitchen dominates the inner area, breaking down the barrier between chefs and diners. Ask

to sit there, as it’s a great evening’s entertainment watching Chris marshall his team of six cheflings. Service

on the night we dined was impeccable: our every whim attended to effortlessly.

Open May – September 2017: Monday & Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm ; 7pm – 9pm (dinner)

Tuesday – Friday, 7pm – 9pm

7 September 2017 – May 2018: Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm; 7pm – 9pm

Contact 021 876 2328, restaurant@foliage.co.za

Where to find it Foliage Restaurant

TIG reviewer Jackie Lange

2. The Kitchen at Maison

Everything at this farm bistro is the height of style: from chef Arno Janse van Rensburg’s perfectly pared-

down dishes to the Scandi-chic interiors and beautifully merchandised deli.

The food Arno’s mantra is simple: the best ingredients, prepared with passion. And while all his produce is

sourced from Maison (wherever possible) and nearby farms, there’s nothing parochial about his palate-popping

plates. This is fine dining at its artfully stripped-down best. Echoing Arno’s transparent approach to food

preparation, the pass opens onto the restaurant, so diners can watch him as he adds the final flourishes to every

dish that comes out of his kitchen.

The menu has been designed to allow diners to experience as many flavours and textures as possible. As such,

portions are small, and there are various à la carte options: R395 (three courses); R495 (four courses); R595

(five courses); and R645 (six courses).

We recommend The six-course menu – to maximise the flavour-and-texture extravaganza.

The vibe Simple, stylish and sophisticated, rather like the furniture and homeware brand that’s also owned by

Maison’s proprietor Chris Weylandt. From the Scandi-inspired wood panelling, “tentacle” lights, and the

waiter’s artisanal-looking leather aprons, everything is tastefully buttoned up.

We love that the restaurant opens onto rolling lawns and vineyards, where couches and umbrellas beckon for

after-lunch lounging.

Open Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm (lunch)

(From December 2017 onwards)

Monday – Wednesday, 12pm – 3pm (lunch)

Friday – Saturday, 7pm – 11pm (dinner)

Contact 021 876 2116, alice@maisonestate.co.za

Where to find it The Kitchen at Maison

. Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant

Appropriately positioned at the entrance to Franschhoek – on Môreson farm – this popular eatery should

feature on every visitor’s to-do list. Although not fine-dining in the strict sense, Bread & Wine’s feted country

cuisine is caringly created and expertly executed by chef Neil Jewell. Add attentive service and beautiful

surrounds, and it’s not surprising that the restaurant is always full – booking is essential.

The menu “Neil’s Nosh” changes according to the seasons and his whims. There are two pricing options:

R360 for two courses, and R398 for three, with a choice of six starters, six mains and five desserts. Though

Neil is known for his charcuterie and pork skills, we tried the butter-roasted kingklip with chicken-wing confit

and pickled mushrooms – sublime.

X factor The delicious, citrusy Miss Molly bubbly that we had enjoyed with our meal. Arrive early, and do a

wine-tasting at Môreson’s winery (next to the restaurant) before lunch.

Good to know Neil’s wife, Tina, gives bread-making courses, with wine and laughter thrown into the mix.

Open Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm

(From 16 May – 31 August 2017, Bread & Wine will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Contact 021 76 004, breadandwine@moreson.co.za

4. Pierneef à La Motte

Named after South African landscape artist, Jacob Hendrik Pierneef, this esteemed restaurant offers a similarly

creative streak, as chef Michelle Theron paints her own culinary pictures using technically assured techniques

tinged with her own personal style. Her dishes are inspired by centuries-old cooking techniques, borne out of

local and international influences.

We love the sense of whimsy, so often absent in fine-dining establishments, such as the Delft-style porcelain

dangling from the rafters, and the bold chair backs that tell their own stories…Outside, ancient oaks and

bubbling water features create a serene setting, with the overall atmosphere being sophisticated yet quirky.

Open Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm

Thursday, Friday & Saturday (September – May; reservations only) for seasonal dinners, 7pm – 10.30pm

Friday & Saturday (June – August), 7pm – 8.30pm

Contact 021 876 8800, pierneef@la-motte.co.za

Where to find it La Motte, R45 Main Road, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Tamlyn Ryan

5. The Werf

Nowadays, words like “farm to table” and “artisanal” are so commonly used, they’re almost parodies. At The

Werf, however, chef Christiaan Campbell remains so passionately committed to ensuring that ethical and

sustainable methods are followed on every inch of this nine-hectare estate, it’s almost a religion.

His honest, earthy, no-frills food philosophy – “Passion and flavour are our starting points; everything else

follows” – are reflected in his “innovative country dishes”, which are as creative as they are comforting.

We love that Christiaan is exploring age-old food fermentation methods, adding a healthy (and, ironically,

modern) dimension to the restaurant’s already bountiful offerings.

The vibe Housed in Boschendal’s original cellar, The Werf epitomises a particular style of plaas chic –

heritage-Dutch-meets-modern-Afrikaner – arguably invented by Karen Roos, whose nearby Babylonstoren is a

must-visit when in Paarl. The result is a familiar, unintimidating and oh-so current space.

X factor The overarching sense of warmth, generosity and abundance that envelops the entire estate. We were

greeted by Johnny Pharo, whose toothless grin and “Thank you for visiting us today” as we stepped out of the

car were very comforting (after a 45-minute ride with a restless toddler).

Good to know Boschendal’s gourmet picnics are among our favourites.

Open Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm (lunch; guests to be seated by 2pm)

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 6pm – 9pm (dinner; guests to be seated by 8.30pm)

Contact 021 870 4206, werf@boschendal.co.za

Where to find it Boschendal, Pniel Road, Franschhoek Valley

TIG reviewer Nikki Benatar

6. Reuben’s Restaurant and Bar

It’s here! The striking new Reuben’s Restaurant and Bar in Franschhoek! Combining 12 years memories and

moments, the exquisite glass-fronted eatery is chef Reuben Riffel’s new home.

The food Featuring some of his signature dishes (tuna takaki, pork belly and peppered Springbok steak), the

menu also includes interesting tasters (a poké bowl and smoked-pork croquettes), exciting sharing plates, and

hearty mains (butter chicken curry, prawn and squid pasta, Jerusalem artichoke and celeriac risotto, to name a

few), and some dreamy desserts, too.

The vibe Ritzy marble floors, floor-to-ceiling atrium-style glass windows, with prime views of the bustling

Main Road, and refined decor, which echoes the sophisticated dining offering.

X factor Aside from the fact that it’s another great prospect from one of South Africa’s most well-known

chefs, we love that the bar is a main event in itself, serving an extensive selection of bubbly, wine, spirits,

beers and ciders, liqueurs and aperitifs.

Open Monday, 12pm – 3.30pm; 6.30pm – 9pm

Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3.30pm; 6.30pm – 9pm

Contact 021 876 3772, reservations@reubens.co.za

Where to find it 2 Daniel Hugo Street, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Tamlyn Ryan

7. GRANDE PROVENCE

This is an essential culinary sojourn for any foodie worth their weight in gribiche. That said, you don’t have to

be a connoisseur to enjoy all that’s on offer at this heritage wine estate. We were in Franschhoek on one of

those magnificent 27-degree winter’s days, so we sat under the ancient oaks in the modern sculpture garden

and drank in the views of the vineyards and the rugged mountains beyond, with the Berg River trickling past

us.

The food Executive chef Darren Badenhorst creates inspired seasonal dishes (using foraged ingredients when

available) that look as exquisite as they taste, thanks to his eye for colour and his commitment to bold flavours.

The bread course alone is a thing to behold. Every single thing on the Winter Menu (R450 for three courses)

appealed, so our waiter recommended the most popular dishes, which exceeded expectations.

Don’t leave without trying the hot fondant for dessert!

The vibe Chic, modern, laidback, stylish – this is contemporary winelands dining at its best. Take a post-

prandial amble around the grounds, popping into the art gallery and shop for some inspiring browsing.

X factor The seamless coming-together of tradition and innovation. Here, the state-of-the-art cellar and

contemporary restaurant are perfectly at home on this 1694 heritage estate.

Open Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm; 7pm – 9pm

Please note From 1 June 2017, the restaurant is closed on Sunday evenings; normal operation will resume on 1

October 2017.

Contact 021 876 8600, reservations@grandeprovence.co.zaWhere to find it Grande Provence

TIG reviewer Nikki Benatar

8. CAFÉ BONBON

An imposing entrance, with flags flying and a friendly security guard, greets visitors to La Petite Dauphine, a

working wine farm that’s home to a five-star hotel and restaurant. In summer, tables are perfectly laid on the

shaded terrace overlooking the pond, while in cooler weather, the indoor dining room, filled with interesting

objets d’art and flowers beckons. It’s the perfect spot for a celebration – on the hot autumn day we visited, a

long Provençal-style table had been set up under a tree for a group of 20 revellers.

The food Husband-and-wife chefs Scott and Melanie Shepherd concoct tantalising dishes combining

interesting flavours and textures using the freshest ingredients.

The service Waiters welcome guests warmly, are knowledgeable and happy to discuss the menu.

X factor The excellent coffee and slice of the deliciously decadent chocolate cake merits a tea-time visit of its

own.

Open Monday – Sunday, 8am – 5pm

Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 8am – 9pm

Contact 021 876 3936, cafebonbon@lapetite.co.za

Where to find it Café BonBon Country Restaurant

TIG reviewer Jackie Lange

9. LE BON VIVANT

safarinow

Just off the main road, in a converted house, this restaurant dishes up outstanding food by classically trained

Dutch chef-patron Pierre Hendricks. The cosy interior bursts with charm, thanks to whimsical touches (such as

light fittings made of colanders and graters) and a cosy fireplace. A glass wall allows diners a glimpse into the

working kitchen where Pierre and his team perform their culinary magic.

The food You’ll be impressed, as we were, with the unusual combinations on the à la carte menu. The chef’s

modern take on traditional surf-and-turf is the pork and scallops (pork belly, with seared scallop, apple, baby

onion and butternut) – delicious!

Don’t leave without trying a decadent dessert – such as crème brûlée or caramel soufflé. Adventurous diners

should try the five-course chef’s surprise menu (R495 or R625 with wine).

Open Monday – Sunday (closed on Wednesday), 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 9pm

Contact 021 876 2717, reservations@lebonvivant.co.za

Where to find it Le Bon Vivant

TIG reviewer Jackie Lange

10. LEOPARD’S LEAP FAMILY VINEYARDS

This friendly and inviting family-oriented destination offers fresh food and affordable, easy-drinking wines.

The modern glass building was designed by the talented team at Makeka Design Lab, with contemporary

interiors by Christiaan Barnard. As you would expect from any Rupert family-related project, the winery has

exceptional tasting facilities set around an imposing tasting bar where you can sit and sample the wide range of

available wines, with friendly and efficient staff on hand to discuss your preferences and guide you through a

tasting.

The food The rotisserie-based lunch includes a variety of meats prepared by chef Pieter de Jager and his team,

complemented by a selection of perfectly prepared side dishes, fresh salads and vegetables sourced from the

organic vegetable and herb farm garden. The meat is charged at a set price, and the sides priced according to

weight. Desserts such as cake lollies, mini cheese cakes and baby meringues will delight small fries.

Before you leave Make a turn at the well-stocked gift shop, which specialises in kitchen accessories, crockery

and interesting recipe books. And, of course, stock up on a few bottles (or crates) of vino. We recommend the

Culinaria Brut Méthode Cap Classique – a zesty sparkling wine with subtle pink undertones (R140).

X factor On summer weekends (or those delicious sunny winter’s days), grab a corner on the sun-drenched

verandah and watch the sun set over the vineyards, while your toddlers play safely in the nearby playground.

Insider info Serious foodies should consider taking one of the culinary classes in the state-of-the-art kitchen.

Open Wednesday – Sunday, 11.30am – 3pm

Contact 021 876 8002, info@leopardsleap.co.za

11. CAFÉ FRANSCHHOEK

If you’re visiting Franschhoek on an event weekend, we recommend this popular street café conveniently

situated opposite the Town Hall.

The food If you’re after a quick breakfast, light lunch, comfort dinner, or a glass of wine and a snack, you’ll

find it at this casual eatery. Tables are placed close together, which is rather lovely as you’ll hear smatterings

of foreign languages.

We love sitting a pavement table, watching the passing parade. There’s a large dining area inside the restaurant

and an outdoor seating area upstairs, where you can relax over a glass of bubbly and take in the beautiful

Drakenstein mountains.

Open Monday – Saturday, 7am – 9pm (summer)

Monday – Saturday, 8am – 8pm (winter)

Sunday & public holidays, 7am – 6pm

Contact 021 876 4542, franschhoekcafe@gmail.com

Where to find it Café Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Jackie Lange

12. HAUTE CABRIÈRE Restaurant & Terrace

After consulting at this esteemed Franschhoek stalwart, chefs Westley Müller and Nic van Wyk

(previously of Towerbosch Restaurant at Knorhoek and Terroir at Kleine Zalze) took over the Haute

Cabrière kitchen in November 2016. They say “good things come in threes”, which certainly rings true

here, as the gourmet duo have been working closely with cellarmaster Takuan Von Arnim to create

exciting new dishes that complement the estate’s renowned wines. The team has done an excellent job

with their first collaborative menu and are well on their way to putting Cabrière back on the map as the

go-to destination for a contemporary culinary experience.

The menu is a refreshing a departure from the classic French fare that Cabrière was known for. As the

restaurant makes the switch from retro to modern, expect a host of well-balanced, well-executed dishes,

such as the pork belly with puy lentils and choucroute sauce.

The vibe The cellar-turned-restaurant is dark and broody inside – perfect for a winter (or romantic) meal.

If the weather permits, the terrace beckons with its sweeping views of the valley. The personable and

attentive staff made us feel right at home.

Open Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 2pm

Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 8pm

Sunday (lunch), 12pm – 2pm, reservations only

Contact 021 876 3688; restaurant@cabriere.co.za

Where to find it Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek, Cape Town

TIG Reviewer Michelle de Bruin

13. Tuk Tuk Microbrewery

Legend has it that The Singh (real name Analjit Singh) visited Franschhoek one day during the 2010 Soccer

World Cup, and ended up buying half the village (well, three hotels and their adjoining wine farms, five

restaurants, a spa, a gym, a micro-brewery, a wine studio and a gallery… when we last checked). The

Taqueria, housed in the above-mentioned brewery, serves Mexican-inspired ceviche, nachos and tacos, which

go down beautifully with a craft beer or two.

The food The menu offers a variety of small plates (to be shared preferably) that include fresh and tasty tacos

and nachos, as well as four desserts. It’s perfect for a spontaneous pop-in, or a light bar meal.

The vibe It shares space with a state-of-the-art brewery, so the look is industrio-cool: vaulted ceilings,

exposed-brick and sandblasted walls, and copper and stainless-steel service pipes overhead, with Mondrian-

esque pops of colour here and there. Sit inside and watch the distillers at work, or grab an outside table for the

best view of the high street.

Open Sunday – Thursday, 11am – 10.30pm

Friday and Saturday, 11am – 11pm

Contact 021 492 2207, info@tuktukbrew.com

Where to find it 14 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek, Western Cape

TIG reviewer Nikki Benatar

14. Dutch East

Claire Gunn

Another gem on Franschhoek’s main road, Dutch East’s menu is inspired by local cuisine with a hint of

Eastern flavours, resulting in familiar yet unique creations. Although it goes as bistro, we think “haute bistro”

is a more accurate description – expect some (very) pretty and creatively presented plates. Head chef and

owner Pasch du Plooy – who previously worked at Bouillabaisse, Reuben’s and L`Ermitage – has done a good

job crafting an exciting menu.

The food For starters we had the beef tartare; and the three-cheese tartlet with pear sorbet. Mains left us

satisfied: roasted pork with pomme purée; and mussels in white wine. All highly recommended.

We love The upmarket yet laidback ambience – no white tablecloths here – making this cosy eatery a good call

for almost any occasion.

X factor In winter months a central fireplace keeps the cold at bay, while on balmy summer nights, the front

terrace overlooking the main road is where the best people-watching in Franschhoek happens. Service on the

evening was excellent and the servers were knowledgeable in their recommendations.

Open Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm (lunch); 6.30pm – 9pm (dinner)

Sunday (lunch and dinner), 11.30am – 6.30pm

Contact 021 876 3547, info@dutcheast.co.za

Where to find it 42 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Michelle de Bruin

15. Village grill & butcher

There’s something familiar about this popular steakhouse, conveniently located at the entrance to Franschhoek

Village, that’ll make you feel as if you’ve been here before, even if it’s your first time. It could be the friendly

service, or the crackling fire… In any event, the elegant décor belies the fact that outside is an enclosed, well-

kitted-out kiddies’ playground.

The food Though its name suggests you’re at a meatery, a quick skim over the varied menu reveals it’s

anything but. A while ago, consulting chef Laura Truter tweaked some of the popular classics, giving them a

posh edge. For example, the calamari starter – deep-fried squid with paprika seasoning, toasted sesame seeds

and lemon aioli – is an elegant version of regular calamari rings.

The vibe Familiar, friendly, casual and comfortable.

X factor The steak! Sourced from Ryan Boon, a butchery in Paarl that specialises in pasture-reared and

sustainably sourced meat, my 300g rib-eye steak with Madagascan green-pepper-and-brandy sauce was rich,

flavourful and juicy. For sides, I chose hand-cut potato wedges (crispy and utterly moreish) and garden

vegetables (cooked al dente, the way I like them). Delicious.

Open Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm

Contact 021 876 2344, info@villagegrill.co.za

Where to find it Main Road, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Nikki Benatar

16. Marigold Authentic Indian

This new addition to Franschhoek’s main street is another Singh-owned establishment (see Tuk Tuk above).

Situated in Heritage Square – which also houses DV Chocolate Café and The Boutique Gallery – it’s added a

touch of spice to the village. With Durban-born Vanie Padayachee (formerly at Le Quartier Français) at the

helm, guests can expect rich, layered dishes tinged with authentic Indian flavours (informed by her recent

travels to India).

The menu Marigold’s menu channels exotic, spicy North Indian food, as it effortlessly incorporates fragrant

curries, delicious biryanis, Thali (a set menu of various dishes), charcoal tandoor-cooked meat and, of course,

naan breads into its small-plates menu. There are even vegetarian options.

We love the chic, pared-back interiors and, in particular, the expansive street-facing windows, which add a

touch of elegance to the restaurant’s natural palette and exquisite wood-panelled floors.

Open Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 10pm

Contact 021 876 8970, restaurant@marigoldfranschhoek.com

Where to find it Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Tamlyn Ryan

17. Ryan’s Kitchen

Ryan’s Kitchen is housed in a charming heritage building, with large windows overlooking Franschhoek’s

Main Road. Inside, husband-and-wife co-owners Ryan and Lana Smith have created and elegant, yet unfussy,

atmosphere.

The food You’ll find an array of bold local dishes here – testament to chef Ryan’s proudly South African

roots, as well as his international experience (including a stint at St Petersburg’s Royal Astoria).

We love that the menu changes biweekly (that’s twice a month), meaning there’s always something fresh, new

and exciting to sample.

Open Monday – Saturday, 12.30pm – 2.30pm; 6.30pm – 9.30pm

Contact 021 876 4598, info@ryanskitchen.co.za

Where to find it 1, Place Vendome, Huguenot Road, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Tamlyn Ryan

18. Orangerie Restaurant

tastetrip.co.za

Located on the lovely Le Lude MCC Estate, Orangerie’s chic, all-white interiors – with the odd splash of

colour – echo chef Nicolene Barrow’s intriguing menu: purist European execution (a spin-off of her experience

in world-famous international kitchens) tinged with personal flair and modernity.

The menu Expect fine, fresh ingredients – sourced seasonally from the surrounding forests, meadows,

mountains and seas – judiciously combined to create memorable and exquisite-looking dishes.

The vibe Orangerie’s French-inspired interiors – white-and-black tiling, atrium windows, with potted plants

and floral arrangements providing pops of colour – create a soothing and civilised atmosphere.

Open Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 4pm

Contact 021 100 3464, info@lelude.co.za

Where to find it Le Lude, Bowling Green Avenue (Lambrechts Road), Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Tamlyn Ryan

19. Rupert & Rothschild Restaurant

Situated in the light, airy and modern Tasting Centre on the family-run estate of the same name, Rupert &

Rothschild Restaurant is the perfect spot for a business meeting, special celebration or casual meal with

friends. The glorious vineyard and mountain views create a relaxed atmosphere for diners to enjoy chef

Carmen Muller’s culinary creations.

The menu The concise Chef’s Menu showcases Carmen’s skills beautifully, but if you’d prefer, opt for the

champagne, wine and food tasting menus, where you get to savour some of the exquisite Rupert & Rothschild

wines too.

The vibe The Afro-French interiors, with artworks from the Rupert Art Museum and French oak furniture –

create a sense of understated elegance.

Open Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm

Please note The restaurant is closed for maintenance from 19 June – 2 July 2017

Contact 021 874 1648, restaurant@rupert-rothschildvignerons.com

Where to find it Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons, Klapmuts Road, Simondium, Franschhoek

TIG reviewer Tamlyn Ryan