Eleven Restaurant: Fresh, Small-Plate Flair in Franschhoek

With the opening of chef-proprietor Ryan Shell’s third eatery in Franschhoek, he and his team have garnered a loyal legion of fans. Eleven, his latest project, sits alongside Ōku and Yama Asian Eatery at Heritage Square, a sought-after address in this gastronomic village.

Whereas its siblings are Asian-inspired, Eleven looks to the world for inspiration – and in the immediate surroundings for sourcing ingredients and wines. The chef in charge of the kitchen is local rising star Pieter du Preez, who honed his skills at Chefs Warehouse at Maison, La Petite Colombe and Leeu Estates. He takes the artistry of cooking seriously and is passionate about letting ingredients shine.

Feast of the senses

The concise but eclectic seasonal set menu (four courses with three options each) is a selection of small plates that will take you on a journey of flavours. Each dish is immaculately presented, and what stands out instantly are the pops of colour on your plate – signalling the vibrance and freshness you’ll also taste.

The options will change often, but think tuna ceviche with avo, cucumber and crunchy kataifi; smoked springbok tartare with raisins and capers; prawn tortellini with bacon, peas and basil; Angus steak with mustard mash and buchu jus; a stunningly pretty pairing of truffled goat’s cheese and beetroot on walnut soil. For dessert, a minty hot-chocolate cremeaux or citrus cheesecake… or Dalewood brie mousse with rose and peach.

If you simply can’t choose from the set menu, opt for the eleven-course tasting menu. In addition to the thoughtful winelist that champions local, small-batch and organic producers, there is a menu of creative “fauxtails” and cocktails.

Finely crafted

With its wooden beams, exposed brickwork and toned-down, simple, neutral palette, there is nothing in the elegant room that detracts from letting the beautiful food shine. The restaurant has an open kitchen, a bar area to one side, a fireplace to keep things cosy in colder weather, and a fabulous verandah that will be a magnet in summer.

The love is in the details – the artisanal woodwork of the tables and chairs; the sleek leather aprons the waitrons wear; the simple cactus centrepiece on your table; a sprig of herbs on your napkin (which infuses your hands with fragrance to add another level to the dining experience).

The name nods to the street address and the more mystical connotations of this power number, but it’s a nod to excellence, too. What’s better than 10 out of 10? Make that an 11.

Opening times Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 11pm
Cost R550 (3 courses)
R660 (3 courses + dessert)
R990 (tasting menu)
R800 wine-pairing
Contact 021 023 3755, [email protected]
Where to find it 11 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
Book through Novel

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