This French bistro just outside Stellenbosch majors in flavour, passion and heartfelt authenticity, and has reopened for sumptuous sit-down meals.
The Vine Bistro’s picture-perfect terrace, with 360-degree vineyard views, epitomises dreamy lunches in the Winelands – perfect for special occasions and spontaneous outings alike. And while current curfews have put a pin in evening outings, we’re thrilled we can still enjoy sit-down breakfasts and lunches at this popular destination, with a beautiful backdrop to match.
The rolling vineyard and mountain views from the outdoor terrace evoke a quintessential Winelands setting, while inside, the restaurant’s elegant interiors – with its 19-century chairs and classic Parisian tables – create a French look that’s casual and chic.
On the menu
Head chef Alex Rykaart and chef-patron Christophe Dehossehave created a heavenly á la carte breakfast and lunch menu of five or six beautifully crafted options per course. It’s fine-dining without pretence, and an emphasis on fresh, local produce.
Although the breakfast dishes are ever-changing, diners can expect the likes of Franschhoek salmon trout gravadlax; freshly baked croissants; brioche pain perdu (French toast); and fresh garden crudité, to name a few.
The exceptional lunch menu boasts starters such as oeuf en meurette (free-range egg poached in red wine with mushroom duxelle); garden vegetable beignet (deep-fried pastry with a light batter) with red pepper coulis and black olive tapenade; and Franschhoek salmon trout gravadlax.
Mains include the likes of pan-fried Parisienne gnocchi; lightly cured poached hake; confit duck with potato sarladaise (potatoes roasted in garlic and butter); pan-fried pasture reared beef rump steak; and a Ploughman’s platter.
Delectable desserts? Crème caramel; warm melting chocolate biscuit; apple tarte tatin with vanilla-pod ice cream; and chocolate and hazelnut praline cake with orange sauce. Yes, please!
French dining at home
The eatery is also offering Thursday night dinners to be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home, available for order online and delivered straight to your door. The menu comprises fresh baguette, herb butter and a snack, followed by a main dish that changes weekly, and a sweet treat to finish.
Cost R180 per person (a minimum of two dishes required for order)
Delivery to Stellenbosch, Somerset West, Paarl, Franschhoek and Durbanville
Delivery times Thursday, 12pm – 2.30pm
Orders must be placed by Wednesday at 3pm.
Order via DinePlan
Safety first
Heath and wellness are a priority for the team at Glenelly Estate and The Vine Bistro. In addition to the mandatory standards of hygiene applied in production and public areas, they have implemented extra measures such as frequent hand- and surface-sanitising, widely spaced tables, mandatory masks by staff and diners (with the exception of eating), with temperature screenings upon arrival to ensure the wellbeing of everyone involved.
So, don your striped top and beret, and get ready for an unforgettable French feast in the Winelands.
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