Superb fine-dining, delightful cafés and an array of globe-trotting flavours.
For a small Winelands village – albeit crammed to its Cape Dutch gables with centuries-old Huguenot heritage, historical architecture and wondrous wine estates – Franschhoek has an almost overwhelming array of superb restaurants. Unfurling into a renaissance after Covid, new restaurants are blossoming, with more choice than before, including casual bistros, delightful cafés and elegant eateries.
Living up to its reputation as a Winelands gourmet hotspot (it was one of Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places in 2022), Franschhoek is littered with more than enough superb fine-dining restaurants to feast on a different gastronomic highlight every night of the week.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or basing yourself on a lavish wine estate for a whole week of view-drenched luxury, take the guesswork out of planning your culinary adventures with our picks of the best places to eat in Franschhoek.
We start with the fine-dining jewels, moving through to our favourite casual spots (not ranked in any particular order). A clutch of establishments were closed for their winter break when we visited, so your favourite might not appear on our list. Let us know in the comments below.
Afoot in Franschhoek
The JAN Franschhoek pop-up in the lavender fields at La Motte opens for its second season on 1 September 2023. Booking opens on 1 August.
La Petite Colombe
A veritable jewel in Franschhoek’s culinary crown, La Petite Colombe remains one of the most coveted dining experiences in the Cape. Situated at Leeu Estates wine farm, the sibling of Constantia’s superlative La Colombe is a relaxed yet refined and flawlessly five-star eatery helmed by chef Peter Duncan. A theatrical, multi-course array of superb dishes flows out of his kitchen – from oysters and crayfish to the sweets trolley. The dazzling presentation, professional service and smart winelist create a sense of occasion that makes dining here very special.
Good to know The two menus (the full Chef’s Experience and the Reduced Menu) both offer vegetarian options.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Contact 021 202 3395, reservations@lapetitecolombe.com
Where to find it Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
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Arkeste
Perched on the edge of a forest on Chamonix Wine Farm, this restaurant is a culmination of chef Richard Carstens’ 30-plus years of experience in some of the top kitchens in the land. The menu combines past passions and triumphs (molecular gastronomy Asian-fusion), classical French techniques and his most recent musings: clean eating and pescetarianism. The result? Healthy, well-prepared and utterly delicious plates, enjoyed on the deck or inside, with floor-to-ceiling glass allowing the serene greenery to permeate. If you have an adventurous palate, ask about the Baked Alaska (meringue and smoked salmon ice cream!). It’s not on the menu but he’ll gladly whip it up.
Opening times Wednesday – Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm; 6pm – 8.30pm
Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Contact 021 876 8415, reservations@arkeste.com
Where to find it Chamonix Wine Estate, Uitkyk Street, Franschhoek
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Epice
Named after the French word épice (meaning spice and pronounced eh-peace), this intimate eatery at Le Quartier Français is the brainchild of La Colombe’s chef-proprietor Scot Kirton and executive chef James Gaag, and headed by chef Charné Sampson (previously sous chef at La Colombe). Revolving around spices, from spicy-hot chili and ginger to delicate vanilla, saffron, cinnamon and nutmeg, the flavour-packed tasting menus take you on a globe-trotting flavour journey, inspired by the team’s culinary expedition to India, as well as memories of travels through Spain, Japan, Mexico, Denmark and the US.
Good to know There are parallel vegetarian options for both reduced and full-tasting menus
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 6pm – 7.30pm
Friday – Sunday, 12pm – 1.30pm; 6pm – 7.30pm (during winter)
Contact 021 492 4044, reservations@epice.co.za
Where to find it 8 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
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Ōku
Ōku was inspired by a culinary journey to Indonesia in 2015. The restaurant interiors are pared back, with delicate artwork and bonsai trees on the walls accentuating the minimalist Asian design. You’ll find an immaculate array of bao, broths, ramen, dumplings and more in the form of a four-(or five-)course à la carte menu, or go for the elegant 11-course kaiseki menu with wine pairings.
Good to know Across the courtyard and run by the same team as Ōku is Yama Asian Eatery serving a selection of deliciously fresh seafood dishes. Book Now
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm; 6pm – 9pm (last seating)
Contact Oku: 021 023 4695, reservations@eat-oku.co.za
Yama: 079 737 1849, reservations@eat-yama.co.za
Where to find it Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
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Chefs Warehouse at Maison
Claire Gunn
The countryside iteration of Liam Tomlin’s wildly successful Chefs Warehouse group looks out to mountains and vineyards on Maison Wine Estate, with chickens and a pet pig strolling past on the shaded lawns and an organic vegetable garden at the entrance. Chef David Schneider (who worked alongside chef Liam and Ivor Jones at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia) focuses on sustainability, using the whole animal, making his own charcuterie and preserving and pickling. The tapas-for-two menu comprises four sharing boards that are as beautiful as they are delicious, and in perfect harmony with the working farm surroundings.
Good to know Wood-fired pizzas and rustic picnic tables on the lawn make this the one Chefs Warehouse that you can comfortably visit with kids.
Opening times (Winter) Thursday, 6pm – 8.30pm
Friday + Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 8.30pm
Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm
(Summer) Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 8.30pm
Contact 021 876 2116, maison@chefswarehouse.co.za
Where to find it Maison Estate, R45, Franschhoek
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Le coin Français
Art on a plate and a superb all-around fine-dining experience is the hallmark of Le coin Français on Franschhoek’s main drag. Owner Darren Badenhorst and head chef Miguel de Caries “take diners on a nostalgic food journey of flavours, textures and interactive creations” with a wealth of technique, a touch of theatre, sustainably sourced ingredients and excellent wine pairings.
Good to know The tasting menus come with the option of nonalcoholic beverage pairings, and two wine-pairing options (classic and premium).
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 6pm – 8pm
Contact 074 126 0022, reservations@lecoinfrancais.co.za
Where to find it 17 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
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Orangerie Restaurant
Located on Le Lude estate, Orangerie’s French-inspired interiors create a soothing and sophisticated atmosphere in which to enjoy creative cuisine. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients, chef-proprietor Nicolene Barrow draws on her classical French training (from Michelin-starred Le Gavroche in London), adding a contemporary spin to create an assortment of varied dishes: think confit duck leg with braised lentils, bacon lardons and whipped goats cheese; slow-braised pork belly with ginger glaze, creamy corn purée, and pea, mange-tout and apple salad; and Karoo lamb T-bones with baby spinach, artichokes, capers, and sultanas.
Good to know Morning & Afternoon Tea with Le Lude’s Cap Classique is a real spoil. Reservations need to be settled 24 hours in advance as the kitchen prepares the confectionaries on the morning of the tea.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Friday + Saturday, 6pm – 8.30pm
Tasting Room: Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 876 2961, info@lelude.co.za
Where to find it Le Lude, Bowling Green Avenue (Lambrechts Road), Franschhoek
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Deux Lions
The restaurant at La Bourgogne Wine Estate in the Franschhoek Valley is headed by chef Nanda Cardoso (previously head chef at Chefs Warehouse & Canteen), whose meticulous approach to seasonal, home-grown ingredients and honest flavours inspires a frequently changing small plates menu that is both approachable and elegant. In the spirit of the barefoot luxury the farm represents, she says: “Very few things make a person feel as at home as having a comfortable meal in a harmonious setting – which is what we are so proud of sharing.” Cosy up indoors by the wood-burning fireplace, or sit outdoors on the riverside terrace, looking over lawns and gardens to the sounds of a rippling mountain stream.
Good to know They also offer wine tastings, olive tastings and gluhwein with charcuterie and cheese boards by the fire.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Contact 021 876 3245, reservations@deuxlions.za.com
Where to find it La Bourgogne Wine Estate, Excelsior Road, Franschhoek
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Bistro at Grande Provence
A delightful new spot at Grande Provence is the informal bistro set in an enclosed garden (off the sculpture courtyard) with wide lawns, mountain views and an extensive jungle gym. Evolved from the previous deli, it’s already a hit with locals and families. Chef Marvin Robyn has designed a short but sumptuous seasonal menu of generous flavour-packed dishes. We happily devoured sublime farmed cob on a crunchy corn and avo salsa with prawn tortellini and prawn bisque; and equally gorgeous chicken tagliatelle Alfredo; followed by a superb crème brûlée. There are soups, curries, burgers, salads, and a classic breakfast menu, too. Tables are set around a roaring fire in winter and spread out from sliding glass windows across the lawn in summer.
Good to know There is a separate kids’ menu. No cash payments are accepted on the estate.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 11am, 12pm – 4pm
Contact 021 876 8600, reservations@grandeprovence.co.za
Where to find it Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Main Road, Franschhoek
Miko at Mont Rochelle
A curved wall of windows with beautiful views over the Franschhoek valley, high rondavel thatched roof and roaring fire… Miko is welcoming and cosy (ideal for a date night), wrapping you in a blanket of unobtrusive luxury. Chef Terence Morris’s beautifully executed à la carte menu is fresh and enticing. We enjoyed a baby-marrow starter with crispy pancetta, poached egg and pesto, and were wowed by a delicious confit lamb neck with apricot and tarragon dumplings. Or, keep it simple with an excellent steak and chips. There’s an element of tastebud intrigue to the desserts: fennel ice cream with an apple and almond concoction; porcini mushroom adding an elusive umami note to a chocolate and salted caramel extravaganza. The flagship restaurant of beautiful Mont Rochelle, Miko’s lunch menu is simpler with alfresco terrace dining next to a garden laid out with lawn games. A lovely place to while away an afternoon, or for sunset co*cktails and bar snacks.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 8am – 10.30am; 12pm – 4pm; 6.30pm – 10pm
Contact 021 876 2770, reception@montrochelle.virgin.com
Where to find it Mont Rochelle, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
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Reuben’s
Fine but uncomplicated has been chef Reuben Riffel’s kitchen philosophy throughout a long career as chef and restaurateur, ever since he opened his first restaurant in his hometown of Franschhoek in 2004. It’s moved location since then but continues to thrive, with a buzz of locals and visitors enjoying the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, by the fire in winter and in the courtyard in summer. Classic favourites such as pork belly, butter chicken and Asian braised beef cheek, seafood risotto and mushroom gnocchi keep regulars returning, with amarula panna cotta and dulce de leche crème brûlée as perennially popular desserts.
Good to know There’s a well-chosen winelist with a varied selection available by the glass.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 9pm
Contact 021 876 3772, reservations@reubens.co.za
Where to find it 2 Daniel Hugo Street, Franschhoek
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Haute Cabrière
Indoor-outdoor dining with unbridled valley views is just part of Haute Cabrière’s allure. Excellent wine, knowledgeably paired with delicious food, completes the picture. We recommend a stroll around the grounds before settling down on the sun-kissed deck with a pre-lunch glass of some of Franschhoek’s finest wines, while you choose from the fuss-free French-inspired dishes on the à la carte menu. Starters include braised oxtail on polenta, field mushroom tart and celeriac and truffle soup; for the main course, the likes of sirloin with mushrooms, spicy prawn pappardelle, and butternut and barley risotto; followed by classic desserts with a twist, such as burnt hazelnut cheesecake, passion fruit meringue, and dark chocolate opera cake.
Good to know The Bakery inside the cellar is open every day for fresh bread, coffee and pastries.
Opening times Monday, Thursday – Sunday, 12pm – 3.30pm
Contact 021 876 8500, reservations@cabriere.co.za
Where to find it Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek
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Protégé
Andrea van der Spuy
From renowned chef-proprietor Scot Kirton (La Colombe, La Petite Colombe, Pier et al), Protégé, as its name implies, provides talented young chefs with the opportunity of honing their skills. At the helm is chef Zane Soutar, who deftly pairs bold flavours with passion. Opposite Epice at Le Quartier Français, the casual fine-dining restaurant offers top-quality, seasonally driven comfort food. The chefs menu consists of four small plates, such as their legendary Korean fried chicken, and pork bao buns, followed by a choice of main dishes, accompanied by superb local wines, and friendly service that will make you feel right at home.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 8pm
Contact 021 224 0801, reservations@protegerestaurant.co.za
Where to find it 18 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
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Terra del Capo Antipasti bar at Anthonij Rupert
Like a scene straight out of the Tuscan countryside, the antipasti set-up at Terra del Capo is delizioso and gloriously accompanied by a world-class selection of estate wines. Sit under the olive trees in summer, or inside the tasting room with views onto the bottling line in winter, as you savour a selection of seasonally inspired vegetarian, seafood and/or meat antipasti or a cheese and charcuterie platter.
Good to know In addition to several wine-tasting options, there’s also a decadent high tea experience (book 48 hours ahead), the Franschhoek Motor Museum (a showcase of 80 vintage cars), and a tram ride connecting all these experiences.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm (last seating)
Contact 021 874 9041, tasting@rupertwines.com, jeanine.vanrhyn@rupertwines.com
Where to find it Anthonij Rupert Wines, R45 Wine Route, Franschhoek Valley, Franschhoek
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La Motte Artisan Bakery & Cafe
Conceptualised by the La Motte owners together with baker extraordinaire Markus Farbinger (founder of Knysna’s Île de Pain), this relaxed and informal artisan bakery and café pâtisserie is a wonderful addition to the Franschhoek culinary landscape. The breakfast and light lunch menu is approachable and delicious, featuring breads from the wood-fired oven (you can also pop in to buy loaves and sweet treats to take home). In the historic Jonkershuis, with glass walls opening onto a terrace and looking over shaded gardens, lawns, ancient oaks, and a farmyard-inspired playground, the café appeals to the whole family.
Good to know Book ahead at weekends, it gets busy.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 8am – 4pm (kitchen closes at 3pm)
Where to find it La Motte Wine Estate, Franschhoek
Mon Amour
Parisian café culture meets Alice in Wonderland in the fanciful and very pretty decor at Mon Amour, tucked away in The Yard just off Franschhoek’s main street. The Friday and Saturday jazz evenings are a highlight for locals and there’s also live piano music in the afternoons over the weekends. Mimosa-fuelled brunches, bubbles and oysters, wood-fired pizzas, and an array of Indian-flecked mains such as lamb rogan josh, tandoori chicken burgers and chicken tikka pizzas are on the versatile menu. Sit inside by the fire and soak up the vibrant decor, or grab a cafe table outside in the shaded yard, away from the main street bustle.
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday + Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Friday + Saturday, 10am – 9pm
Contact 021 300 3038, admin@monamour.co.za
Where to find it The Yard, 38 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
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Glenwood Sushi
Please note: The reward of going off the beaten track to discover this hidden vineyard, in what feels like a secret valley behind Franschhoek, is a rainbow of gourmet sushi. The simple wine estate eatery opens onto an oak-shaded terrace overlooking a lily pond (and endless mountains) and is presided over by master sushi chef Lungani Ntuli. Mentored for many years by chef Arata Koga, Lungani has designed a vibrant menu of gourmet sushi to compliment the estate’s renowned chardonnay. From classic maki, nigiri and sashimi to chef’s signature crunch bomb roll with prawn tempura and seared tuna, plus salmon platters and a sushi pairing menu, it’s a hidden gem well worth the dirt-road drive.
Good to know There’s vegetarian sushi selection and gluten-free is available on request. Booking is essential.
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 11am – 3.30pm (last orders)
Contact 021 876 2044, info@glenwoodvineyards.co.za
Where to find it Glenwood Vineyards, Robertsvlei Road, Franschhoek
Smitten
This warm and welcoming all-day eatery with rather gorgeous decor touches, stretches back from the main street alongside the Yard, with window seats all the way. Owners, chef Chris Smit and TV host Imran Vagar, have created a chic and enticing ambience that bustles year-round with locals and visitors. Luscious breakfasts and brunches range from shaksouka to eggs bennie and beyond. Globetrotting lunch dishes include chicken and cashew nut curry, Parisian gnocchi and Middle-Eastern ostrich meatballs, plus generous salads. And the tempting display of cakes fills in any gaps in your day whether for morning coffee, teatime or dessert.
Opening times Wednesday – Monday, 8am – 5pm
Contact 021 300 1508, info@smittencafe.co.za
Where to find it The Yard, 38 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
Café du Vin
Sometimes, amid all the wine tasting in Franschhoek, you crave a hearty plate of uncomplicated home-style food. Café du Vin, in a historic building on the hub of the village street, is the place for that, as attested by the people-watching pavement tables brimming with locals. There’s a cosy fireplace inside and more tables upstairs in the loft bar area. We tucked into an excellent Cape Malay chicken curry and a generous masala chicken salad, then there are soups and pastas, burgers and bobotie, fish and steaks (and a varied breakfast menu including a selection of crepes and cakes). The extra draw is the friendly wine-savvy service – as the name suggests, it’s a knowledgeable wine den headed up by sommelier and manager Ricardo Roux, with an award-winning 800-strong wine list.
Good to know Their two-hour Winemaker For a Day workshops give you a chance to try your hand at blending, with superb wines as your starting point, taking home your own bottle afterwards.
Opening times Sunday – Thursday, 8am – 5pm (winter); 8am – 10pm (from September 2023)
Friday + Saturday, 8am – 10pm
Contact 021 876 4542, info@cafeduvin.co.za
Where to find it 46 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
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Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards
With its rambling, view-drenched garden and relaxed, airy interiors, this friendly and inviting family-oriented destination is a wonderful day out. Enjoy fresh, laidback, affordable food with a rotisserie-based buffet and harvest table (with lots of options), wood-fired pizzas and easy-drinking wines. The winery has exceptional tasting facilities set around an imposing bar where you can sit and sample the wide range of available wines. And the little ones have the time of their lives on wide-open lawns, water features and two jungle gyms (in view of the restaurant seating) while you enjoy your meal.
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Contact 021 876 8002, info@leopardsleap.co.za
Where to find it R45, Main Road, Franschhoek
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