Beautifully framed Franschhoek flavour in a view-drenched setting.
Smart but not swanky, Miko has an intimate countryhouse hotel vibe that immediately wraps you in a blanket of unobtrusive luxury. Perched on a vine-clad hillside just outside Franschhoek, the restaurant is located on Sir Richard Branson’s award-winning Mont Rochelle wine estate. A curved wall of windows gives grandstand views over the Franschhoek valley, there’s a high rondavel thatched roof, bright splashes of contemporary art and ceramics, and cosy fires in winter. On sunny days and summer evenings sit out on the covered terrace, where folding glass walls open wide to the gardens and views, with playful wire sheep sculptures grazing between the tables.
Dinner at Miko
Executive chef Terence Morris’ impeccably executed menu celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients in beautifully plated style that tells a story or two (you can eat à la carte or go for a multi-course tasting experience paired with wines from the estate). We particularly loved 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. But you can also keep things simple with an excellent steak and chips, or sustainably caught fish in a lemon butter sauce. The superb desserts were impossible to resist: think fennel ice cream with an apple and almond concoction; porcini mushroom adding an elusive umami note to a chocolate and salted caramel extravaganza.
Good to know On the last Thursday of each month Miko hosts a local artist for a dinner and live music evening from 7pm.
Lunch and lazy afternoons
During the day Miko channels relaxed lunch vibes. Challenge yourselves to some of the lawn games with a glass of wine in hand, before grazing from the Terrace menu, where you’ll find a classic Caesar salad, grass-fed beef burgers, hake and chips, Korean spiced cauliflower and various sharing platters. In the mood something special? There are more than a few stand-outs from the dinner menu to indulge in, too.
Breakfast with all the trimmings
Non-hotel guests are warmly welcomed at breakfast too, for a lavish spread that you’ll want to linger over. A cornucopia of fresh fruits, pastries, mueslis and more tempts several returns to the cold buffet, but save space for a dish from the menu of eggs every which way.
Wine estate heritage
The name honours the legacy of previous owner Miko Rwayitare (the late Rwandan entrepreneur and father of mobile telecommunications in Africa). The first black winemaker, who still serves as an inspiration at Mont Rochelle.
Whatever the reason, whatever the season, dining at Miko is a surefire way to enjoy exceptional food and wine, and to experience the best that foodie-Franschhoek has to offer.
Good to know Booking in advance is recommended
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
Book through DinePlan
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