Hearty servings of delicious cuisine and sublime views.
From its position alongside the Glenelly wine cellar, with a wide terrace looking out across fynbos gardens and rows of vineyards, The Vine Bistro is the quintessential Winelands restaurant. The elegant contemporary space furnished with 19th-century-style chairs and Parisian café tables is where two cultures harmoniously blend: there can be no mistaking that you’re in the heart of Stellenbosch wine country, but the food evokes traditional French cooking, inspired by chef patron Christophe Dehosse’s culinary heritage. He and his small team create frequently changing menus of modern bistro classics inspired by the best seasonal produce.
The menu du jour
The Vine Bistro’s à la carte menu features five options per course. It’s an opportunity to try all manner of classic dishes, such as braised pork cheeks with braised fennel and Dijon mustard sauce, and a proper bouillabaisse with rouille and croutons. You’ll also find eclectic combinations with a local-ingredient twist, such as the yellowfin tuna ceviche with wakame and spekboom salad.
Desserts might feature gâteau Royal with sauce Anglaise, dark chocolate Marquise and orange compôte, or irresistible crème caramel. And, naturally, there is a superb artisanal cheese board with both local and French cheeses.
French classics for winter
During the winter months, when things slow down a bit in the Winelands, Christophe delves deeper into his French heritage, adding some iconic favourites that have a special personal connection. They spark memories – of meals at home, of the menus at places where he’s worked, and of unforgettable restaurant experiences over the years.
Look out for these classic French dishes added to the à la carte menu over the next few months of 2023:
May Jambon persillé | Cassoulet | Paris-Brest
June Soupe à l’oignon | Petit salé aux lentilles | Baba au rhum
July Oeuf meurette | Canard à l’orange with pommes gaufrettes | Vanille Millefeuille
August Cape line fish escabeche | Daube de boeuf with panisse | Tarte au citron
September Salade de pommes de terre tiède et saucisse | Moules frites | Ile flottante
Vintage sipping
The winelist features the full range of award-winning Glenelly wines (with favourite house wines by the glass for suggested pairings), plus some older vintages that are otherwise hard to come by. There’s also a thoughtful selection from other South African and French estates – including a few rare vintages from French owner May de Lencquesaing’s Bordeaux estate, Château Pichon Longueville.
If you’re looking for a special meal that will transport you into the heart of the French countryside, without leaving the stunning views and terroir of Stelllenbosch, you’ve come to the right place!
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Friday + Saturday, 6.30pm – 8pm
Contact 021 809 6444, bistro@glenelly.co.za
Where to find it Glenelly Estate, Lelie Street, Ida’s Valley, Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan
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