When I first visited South Africa, and in particular the Western Cape to attend a wine exhibition organised by Wines of South Africa more than 20 years ago, it was love at first sight. The wines were extraordinary and the landscapes stunning: mountains, beaches and vineyards in one breath! However, the food was lacklustre, to say the least. The produce was fantastic–fresh seafood and meats, a wide selection of vegetables and fruit–but everything was overcooked and a bit bland. On a recent trip, I noticed a marked change: Refined restaurants with magnificent vineyard and ocean views and a superlative quality of cuisine, whether it is fine dining or fish and chips. Here are some of the best places to eat in the Western Cape:
La Petite Colombe Leeu Estates, Franschhoek
Voted one of the best restaurants in South Africa and among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2024, much has been written about the original La Colombe (the Dove). La Petite Colombe on the beautiful Leeu Estates in the Cape Winelands offers nine or five-course tasting menus with superbly conceived dishes executed with the best South African produce: local beef, oysters and truffle, crayfish and olives. With lots of drama and informed service, this is for a special night out. Reserve at least a month in advance.
Price: The Chef’s Menu will set you back over USD 100 per head (Rs8,345) without drinks.
Read more at: https://www.cntraveller.in/story/karen-anands-picks-of-the-best-places-to-eat-in-the-western-cape-south-africa/
