Chapter 2: Franschhoek
Eleven
This popular Franschhoek gem invites you on a journey inspired by the chefs' worldwide travels and personal experiences. Their culinary philosophy is rooted in sustainability. Feast on a diverse fusion of global dishes on their hyper-seasonal menu, promising to take you on an adventure.
Why go?
Bold themes and delicate flavours intertwine with an exceptional wine selection.
Details
a: 11 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
w: eleveneats.co.za
t: +27 21 023 3755
e: reservations@eleveneats.co.za
h: Lunch: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 14h30 (last seating)
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 18h00 – 21h00 (last seating)
JAN Franschhoek
Embark on a unique dining odyssey with Michelin-star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen and La Motte Wine Estate teaming up to present seasonal masterpieces. This food-and-wine experience celebrates regional flavours, expertly paired with La Motte's award-winning wines.
Why go?
To be seated at a communal table with a tasting menu that fuses South African traditions with global culinary innovation.
Details
a: La Motte Wine Farm, R45, Franschhoek
w: janonline.com
t: +27 21 876 9115
e: jan.franschhoek@la-motte.co.za
h: Lunch: Sunday, 12h00 – 16h00
h: Dinner: Wednesday to Saturday, 18h30 – 23h00
Please note: This is a seasonal restaurant. Reservations are essential.
Arkeste
Set on the picturesque Chamonix Wine Farm in Franschhoek and housed in a charming heritage building at the edge of the forest, dining at Arkeste somehow feels both refined and relaxed.
Why go?
For an à la carte menu and thoughtfully plated dishes, exceptional Chamonix wines, forest views, and warm, attentive service.
Details
a: Chamonix Wine Farm, Uitkyk Street, Franschhoek
w: arkeste.com
t: +27 21 876 8415
e: reservations@arkeste.com
h: Lunch: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 14h30
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 18h00 – 20h30
Terra Del Capo Antipasti Bar
You can look forward to the Italian Dolce Vita experience at Terra Del Capo, featuring an antipasti bar and alfresco dining. The space is perfect for a lingering lunch, prepared using produce from the estate and surrounding farms. Terra Del Capo’s authentic and vibrant culinary charm is emphasised by carefully sourced local and seasonal ingredients.
Why go?
For beautifully-plated small dishes, wine served at cellar door prices, and a setting that pairs Italian flair with local flavour.
Details
a: Anthonij Rupert Wine Estate, R45 Wine Route, Franschhoek
t: +27 21 874 9041
w: rupertwines.com
h: Tuesday to Sunday, 12h00 – 16h30 (last orders at 15h30)
Tuk Tuk Microbrewery
Join in the art of craft brewing, where fine beer and casual dining unite in a distinctive setting. You’ll have no trouble finding something indulgent on the simple but delicious all-day menu inspired by global street food.
Why go?
Witness the brewing process firsthand and taste a range of craft beers expertly brewed on-site.
Details
a: 14 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
w: tuktuk.co.za
t: +27 21 492 2207
e: reservations@tuktuk.co.za
h: Monday to Friday, 12h30 – 22h00, Saturday and Sunday, 11h00 – 22h00
Le Bon Vivant
Experience homely French elegance at this award-winning restaurant and watch closely as Chef patron Pierre Hendriks and his team prepare impeccably tasty dishes behind the transparent wall.
Why go?
For contemporary French cuisine that brings you palate perfection in a relaxed atmosphere.
Details
a: 22 Dirkie Uys Street, Franschhoek
w: lebonvivant.co.za
t: +27 21 876 2717
e: reservations@lebonvivant.co.za
h: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday to Sunday, 12h00 – 23h00
Yama Asian Eatery
Step into a realm of minimalism at this Asian eatery or take a seat in the enchanting courtyard, where premier sushi and an à la carte menu await. Yama invites families to indulge in exceptional cuisine while discovering inner calm through its creative interpretations of Asian classics.
Why go?
For meticulously crafted sushi and seasonal Asian small plates that pay homage to traditional flavours.
Details
a: Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
w: eat-yama.co.za
t: +27 21 023 4695
e: reservations@eat-yama.co.za
h: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 21h00 (last seating)
Haute Cabrière Restaurant
Here, your lunch features classic French flavours, dishes infused with South African flair, and views of the picturesque Franschhoek wine valley, and of course, wine.
Why go?
For French-inspired South African dining that celebrates family and togetherness.
Details
a: Haute Cabrière, Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek
w: cabriere.co.za
t: +27 21 876 8500
e: info@cabriere.co.za
h: Lunch: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 15h30
Babel – Babylonstoren
Cape Dutch architecture meets clean, modern design at Babel. The menu is rooted in a farm-to-fork philosophy, with seasonal produce picked daily from the gardens and prepared in creative, often unexpected combinations. Explore bold flavour pairings, sip Babylonstoren wines, and wander through the farm's impressive gardens after your meal.
Why go?
For a vibrant, garden-driven dining experience in a beautiful farm setting.
Details
a: Babylonstoren, Klapmuts - Simondium Road, Simondium
w: babylonstoren.com/babel
t: +27 21 863 3852
h: Breakfast: Monday to Sunday, 08h00 – 09h30
h: Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday, 12h30 – 15h00
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 18h00 – 20h30
Chefs Warehouse Maison
The kitchen at Maison blends South African cuisine and farm-to-table principles with bold flair. Think seasonal ingredients, whole-animal butchery, and house-made everything, from chutney to charcuterie.
Why go?
For a memorable, leisurely meal under the oaks, and whole-food philosophy meeting laid-back Winelands charm.
Details
a: Maison Estate, R45, Franschhoek
w: chefswarehouse.co.za/maison
t: +27 21 876 2116
e: maison@chefswarehouse.co.za
h: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 21h00; Sunday, 12h00 – 21h00
La Petite Colombe
Among the vines at Leeu Estates, La Petite Colombe offers a fine dining experience marked by a touch of theatre. The light-filled space, with its sweeping vineyard views, sets the scene for artfully plated, multi-course meals that balance precision and playfulness.
Why go?
For refined dining served with flair in a world-class setting.
Details
a: Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
w: lapetitecolombe.com
t: +27 21 202 3395
e: reservations@lapetitecolombe.com
h: Lunch: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 13h30
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 17h00 – 22h00
Épice
Drawing from culinary adventures across India, Spain, Japan, Mexico, Denmark, the US, and Cape Town, the team at Épice presents a multi-course menu that’s bold yet offers comforting familiarity.
Why go?
For a beautifully composed, spice-led experience where each dish is elevated with finesse in one of Franschhoek’s most intimate dining spaces.
Details
a: Le Quartier Français Hotel, Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
w: lacolombe.restaurant/epice
t: +27 21 492 4044
e: reservations@epice.co.za
h: Lunch: Friday to Sunday, 12h00 – 13h30 (last seating)
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday 18h00 – 20h00 (last seating)
Le coin Français
Located in the heart of Franschhoek, Le coin Français captures the spirit of the valley in every detail, from the art and wine to the innovative cuisine. Here, classic French technique meets “art on a plate” where nostalgic flavours, fine craftsmanship, and Franschhoek’s best wines come together in a beautifully curated setting.
Why go?
Expect an elegant, multi-sensory dining experience led by award-winning chefs.
Details
a: 17 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
w: lecoinfrancais.co.za
t: +27 74 126 0022
e: reservations@lecoinfrancais.co.za
h: Lunch: Friday to Sunday, 12h00 – 14h00 (last seating)
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 18h00 – 20h00 (last seating)
Protégé
Protégé brings a relaxed, flavour-forward take on fine dining to Franschhoek. The kitchen champions fresh, seasonal ingredients and works closely with local suppliers to serve refined yet approachable plates in a stylish setting. Here, casual meets creative in the best way.
Why go?
It’s all about fine dining without the fuss. Dine al fresco or grab a seat at the show kitchen to watch the chefs at work.
Details
a: Le Quartier Français, 18 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
w: lacolombe.restaurant/protege
t: +27 21 492 4048
e: reservations@protegerestaurant.co.za
h: Lunch: Monday to Sunday, 12h00 – 14h30
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 17h30 – 20h30
Reuben's
Reuben’s is all about honest food, delicious flavours, and a laid-back atmosphere. Expect a menu of beloved favourites that reflect Chef Reuben Riffel’s signature approach to uncomplicated, refined cuisine – along with the perfect glass of wine to complement it.
Why go?
For comforting classics, a top-tier wine list, and a welcoming space ideal for long lunches, dinners, and celebratory catch-ups.
Details
a: 2 Daniel Hugo Street, Franschhoek
w: reubens.co.za
t: +27 21 876 3772
h: Lunch: Saturday and Sunday, 12h00 – 14h00
h: Dinner: Monday to Sunday, 17h30 – 20h30
h: Reuben's is closed every Tuesday from the beginning of June until the end of August
Let's Frite
Chefs Reuben Riffel and Aviv Liebenberg have brought the ultimate French fry bar to life. From triple-fried frites served with homemade sauces to juicy burgers stacked with flavour, everything is made in-house and served with a smile. Tucked away beside a stream, the setting is perfect for sunny lunches or even for evenings by the fireplace.
Why go?
It’s your go-to for crispy frites, indulgent burgers, and laid-back bites done right. Perfect after a wine tasting or when that truffle burger craving hits.
Details
a: 9 Reservoir Street, Franschhoek
w: letsfrite.co.za
t: +27 84 502 5119
h: Sunday to Thursday, 11h30 – 20h30, Friday and Saturday, 11h30 – 21h00
Arum
Located on Boschendal Estate, Arum is all about using fire for cooking. Smoking, charring, fermentation, and ageing are used to celebrate individual ingredients and maximise their flavour. With Chef Travis Finch at the helm, accompanied by Founding Chef Peter Tempelhoff and FYN Group Sommelier Jennifer Hugé, rest assured you're in for an experience.
Why go?
For wholesome, indulgent flavours and a space that honours the land, farm, and history of Boschendal and the Franschhoek Valley.
Details
a: Werf Building, Boschendal Wine Estate, Pniel Road, Groot Franschhoek
w: arum.co.za
t: +27 79 640 5284
h: Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday, 12h00 – 14h30
h: Dinner: Wednesday to Sunday, 18h00 – 20h30
h: Bar: Wednesday to Sunday, 12h00 – 20h00
