The Homestead Kitchen: A Pop-Up Dining Experience in a Secret Suburban Garden

A hidden gem if we’ve ever seen one, The Homestead Kitchen is tucked away in a nondescript street in Plumstead, but the moment you step into its enchanting garden the magic begins. Launched by OG foodie Elaine Rosseau eight years ago, The Homestead Kitchen wears many hats – on winter Wednesdays and Sundays it’s a pop-up restaurant, the rest of the year, it serves as a special-occasion venue and the headquarters of Elaine’s 25-year-old catering business, Food Fanatics.

An enchanting setting

Dating back to 1820, the thatched Victorian building has been lovingly renovated and restored by Elaine, who has used its magnificent bones and original Cape Dutch features to create a series of warm, intimate spaces (think cosy tables by the Victorian fireplace), all stylishly adorned with eclectic furniture, art, cookbooks and crockery that she has collected over the years.

Outside is just as beautiful – if not more. Landscaped dining alcoves overlook the vegetable and herb garden, with a gushing fountain and plenty of space for little ones to run around in. In winter, the sides of a Bedouin tent are lowered and outdoor heaters keep the space warm and toasty, plus there are two big baskets of blankets that guests can wrap around their shoulders or legs.

Winter Wednesday tapas

If it’s Wednesday, this is the only spot you’re going to want to have in your diary. The bistro menu features old favourites and new additions.

Styled à la carte as generous tapas dishes, starters such as tempura prawns with pomegranate molasses, or bone marrow with toast, segue into mains of braised lamb neck, sweet sticky pork belly, crispy skin salmon or a classic steak and chips, and vegetarian options including a risotto aglio e olio or an Italian melanzane. Simple but delightful desserts to finish include a classic malva pudding with milk-tart custard or lemon tart with hazelnut streusel.

Sunday farm-style feasts

A set-menu Sunday lunch winter feast for all the family features classic warming and hearty dishes, such as slow roast lamb, leek and mushroom chicken pie, roast potatoes and pumpkin fritters. And Malva pudding to round things off in old-school farm style.

Special occasions

You can also book out the venue for your own special events, including weddings, baby showers and private parties.

The warm, homely and magical atmosphere that Elaine and her team have created at The Homestead Kitchen ticks all the boxes, turning winter Wednesday evenings and chilly Sundays into the highlight of the week.

Good to know The pop-ups run till end-August 2023. Booking is essential
Opening times Wednesday, 6pm – 10pm
Sunday, 12pm – 4pm
Contact 021 797 9819, info@foodfanatics.co.za
Where to find it 23 Constantia Main Road, Plumstead (entrance and secure parking in Bardia Road at the back), Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

Discover all of the Cape’s hidden gems – subscribe to our weekly newsletter.