A home-from-home bistro vibe in a historic Paarl abode.
Set in a heritage Victorian building beneath two majestic oak trees on Paarl’s characterful Main Road, this homely bistro, owned by chef Zian Oosthuizen has been a local favourite since he took over the reins in 2012. A Paarl native, Zian is known for his unpretentious seasonal fare that bursts with flavours the palate won’t soon forget.
Fruit and vegetables are sourced from nearby farms, and some herbs used come from the restaurant’s own garden. Meat is handpicked daily from a local butcher – Goede Hoop Vleis, who stocks a quality range of interesting cuts, such as free-range Karoo lamb, and Chalmar beef that is matured for at least 32 days.
On the menu at Noop
Hearty meat dishes star on the menu, with mouth-watering offerings such as Kalahari springbok loin; crispy free-range duck; slow-roasted lamb neck; a variety of steak cuts with your choice of sauce; and a homemade wagyu beef burger.
But vegetarians are not forgotten, with dishes such as wild mushroom ravioli and tempura broccolini and mushroom poke bowls; while seafood fans should try the Thai red prawn curry.
And leave room for dessert! Choices include a chocolate tart with homemade Madagascan vanilla bean ice cream; and a traditional malva pudding with vanilla anglaise and homemade ice cream.
Impressive winelist
Wine lovers will be well impressed with the excellently curated selection of 350+ wines that features the well-known wine routes of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, as well as some lesser known gems from Elgin, Stanford, Cape Agulhas and Cederburg. (A selection of organic wines, is also available.) There’s also an owner’s cellar list, with vintages dating back to 1965. If it’s a special occasion, splash out on a bottle of French champagne.
With a warm atmosphere, a menu that combines French bistro fare with unpretentious South African flavours, and a chalkboard of spontaneous seasonal specials, Noop is a good choice for a Winelands outing – no wonder Paarl locals keep coming back time and time again.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 11am – late
Contact 021 863 3925, info@noop.co.za
Where to find it 127 Main Road, Paarl
Book through DinePlan
Discover all of the Cape’s hidden gems – subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
