An elegantly moody afterdark odyssey.
It’s glamorous but relaxed, the bar taking centre stage, but Nocturne isn’t only about the cocktails. While trailblazing mixology is the starting point of this Stellenbosch hotspot, it purposely blurs the boundaries between bar and restaurant, which makes perfect sense when you realise that this is a sister establishment to Dusk, chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin’s groundbreaking fine-dining restaurant next door.
Nocturne shares Dusk’s focus on sustainability, foraging and edgy ingredients in an appealing and approachable fashion. Perch on a stool at the bar and watch as the bartenders work their smoothly choreographed magic, or relax at one of the pavement tables under the oak trees (looking over Plein Street to the town hall) and savour dishes from the short but thoughtfully crafted à la carte menu.
Wine and dine
The food menu is deceptively simple – a beautifully presented plate of linefish sashimi is dressed with sour plum ponzu; wagyu tartare is embellished with a porcini custard and pickled shimeji; there’s a divine sous-vide lamb rib with sweet-potato mash; and the pan-fried linefish with smoked and confit tomato relish and grilled pak choi also hits the spot.
With food goes wine, and the list here reveals just as much thought to provenance and pairing: well-chosen vintages that range from fresh and accessible, to iconic classics that pack a punch.
Nocturne specials
Wednesday date nights
Enjoy a three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for R995 per couple. No skipping dessert… This is your chance to get better acquainted with the delicate delights of the lemon posset with meringue crisp (or the elements of chocolate with figs and burnt butter ice cream).
And the last Wednesday of each month features a wine tasting with canapés hosted by a different wine estate each month.
For a flavour journey and some sensory bedazzling, you might just want to go Nocturne-al.
Good to know Kitchen closes at 9pm
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 5pm – late
Friday – Saturday, 3pm – late
Contact 021 023 4745, reservations@nocturneexperience.co.za
Where to find it 43 Plein Street, Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan
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