September 11, 2019

Our taste of the town…

Our taste of the town – hideaways near great restaurants

It’s been evident over the years, to the discerning palate of a foodie, that the Mother City has undergone a gourmet revolution and developed quite a reputation for herself. Alongside all of her other alluring attributes, the city is revered as a hot-spot for wining and dining. Concurred by a few of the bigwigs, including The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller publications, Cape Town is continuously awarded and acknowledged for its gastronomy. An identity of homegrown culinary artists has been established, as they authentically dish up a fusion of culture, heritage, art, flavour and passion.

As it is our passion to ensure your travel experiences include all of the delectable delights that the Cape has to offer, we’ve paired up some of our finest hideaways with some of the country’s finest restaurants. From innovative and edgy tapas to classical fine dining. From farm-to-fork philosophies to sustainable seafood in a coastal cave, it’s all on your lovely doorstep. And, quite frankly, isn’t that the aim of the game when it comes to travel and tranquil weekends away – whether it be in the city, the countryside, the mountains or beside the sea? There are those days for harvesting the markets and cooking up a storm, and there are those evenings for sampling the works of the great cooks of the Cape for some epicurean feasting.

Be sure to book your tables well in advance, as most of these seats sell like hotcakes, especially as the silliness of the summer season commences.

Here are our hideaways just a hop, skip and a swim away from the finest tables in town…

Zonnestraal

Sitting directly on a long stretch of beach in the small fishing village of Paternoster, this West Coast hideaway is the perfect spot for coastal feasting. Amble down the beach, with a slow saunter through the waves and onto the doorstep of a cave called Wolfgat – which was, this year, awarded the best restaurant in the world. Chef Kobus van der Merwe forages daily for wild herbs and seaweeds, sustainable seafood and local lamb and venison.

Maison Noir

You might find it impossible to leave the beautiful grounds of this hideaway – what feels like a remote, tropical island where you’re ensconced by vigorous mountain ranges, koi ponds and wild gardens exuding enchanting seclusion. But for an unforgettable evening out, around the corner and up the hill, Liam Tomlin’s Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia, overlooks the Constantia valley and dishes up tapas for two, with his signature statement of keeping things fresh and fun.

Farniente

It’s all about casual beach life at this rustic thatched cottage nestled on the dunes overlooking Kommetjie’s long beach. You’ll spend your days barefoot and fancy free and carry this forward to the neighbouring laid-back village of Noordhoek, where The Foodbarn gives way to a relaxed, bohemian vibe, with the sophistication in the kitchen from French Chef Franck Dangereux – famous for his ‘casual fine-dining’ – in a characterful old barn.

Sea View Plait

We say Oui Oui, yes please to this breathtakingly beautiful hideaway in St. James, where all the surfers are out to play and the antique markets are on display. Take a scenic stroll down the stairs and along the seafront to the working harbour of Kalk Bay. Situated directly on the water’s edge, Harbour House opens its glass windows out to the ocean. Enjoy exquisite seafood with an impressive wine menu to pair.

Bakoven Seahorse

It may seem like you’re going completely against the grain by considering an evening away from the shores of Beta Beach, where this bungalow implores alfresco dining on the deck. But when you’re this close to the tables of Salsify – up a winding coastal road – Chef Ryan Cole and his team make every mouthful worth the visit. Modern, classical cooking in a refined dining house that’s a national monument. Expect the unexpected.

The Quarry House

Floating above Cape Town in the hilly suburb of Higgovale, this hideaway demands your full attention, every place you plant yourself. A quick 15-minute drive away into the thick of Woodstock, on the top floor of the Silo of the Old Biscuit Mill, Luke Dale Robert’s Potluck Club delivers culinary artistry, with his reputable plate-sharing concept, that he gained from his extensive travels to South America, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Hope Cottage

A beautifully restored 170-year-old barn, adjacent the slopes of the iconic Groot Constantia and Klein Constantia wine estates, this hideaway is at the heart of the Constantia vineyards. Step outside the conservatory dining area and you’re in the middle of some of South Africa’s finest vines. Buitenverwachting is situated up the road, where Head Chef Edgar Osoijnik creates a variety of refined yet rustic traditional dishes, alongside a fine dining menu.

Ayodele

This Constantia hideaway is perfect for an active day of fun in the sun – on the tennis court, in the swimming pool, exploring the gardens, or taking shade under the frangipani. By night, La Colombe at Silvermist Organic Wine Estate is awaiting its demonstration as to why it is one of South Africa’s most iconic and internationally acclaimed fine dining establishments. Scot Kirton presents a fusion of French and Asian cuisine.

The River House

Nestled in the distinguished wine valley of Franschhoek, this hideaway exudes the richness of romance, as it entices you to recline around its living spaces, and gardens all day long. With its reputation for fine dining, there are a plethora of places to pick from, and once again, chef Liam Tomlin has created a taste experience at Chefs Warehouse at Maison Estate. Return to your hideaway for a nightcap at the cosy bar.

Babylonstoren Boutique Hotel

A truly unique retreat that sits on 200 acres of organic farmlands, orchards, vegetable gardens and vineyards which you can explore to your heart’s content. The award-winning restaurant Babel, with their farm-to-fork philosophy, serves seasonal produce that’s picked from the land and parlayed into a colourful, creative feast.

Patina Farm

Deep within the Stellenbosch wine region, this sensationally stylish hideaway seduces on every level. Enough to whet your appetite for an evening at Overture, on the Hidden Valley Wine Estate where celebrated South Africa Chef, Bertus Basson pays homage to authentic, traditional cuisine – allowing your palate to explore the culture of the country he’s passionate about.

The Blue Anchor

Sitting on the edge of the East Cliffs of Hermanus, this gloriously homely hideaway is a stone’s throw away from the vibrant tables of Origins at The Marine. Head Chef Tronette Dippenaar showcases the impressive bounty of the Overberg, ensuring that the focus is always on local flavours and fresh ingredients. Meander your way back to Blue Anchor for an evening of family fun on the deck, listening to the waves below.