This French bistro just outside Stellenbosch majors in flavour, passion and heartfelt authenticity.
The Vine Bistro’s picture-perfect terrace and stone tables evoke wondrous lunches in the vineyards – perfect for special occasions and spontaneous outings alike. Inside, the restaurant’s elegant interiors – with its 19-century chairs and classic Parisian tables – achieve that quintessential French look that’s casual and chic, with a warming fireplace adding cosiness in winter.
On the menu
Head chef Alex Rykaart, together with chef-patron Christophe Dehosse have created an ever-changing á la carte menu of five or six beautifully crafted options per course. With starters such as West Coast oysters with chardonnay sabayon, dill-cured yellowtail and veal sweetbreads, you’ll want to pace yourself, as the mains are equally enticing.
From pan-fried black bream with ratatouille Niçoise, Mediterranean potatoes and roast fennel with beurre blanc to Karoo lamb cutlets with traditional pofadder sausage, soufflé potatoes, baby spinach and thyme jus – this is fine-dining without pretence, and an emphasis on fresh, local produce.
Delectable desserts? Strawberry semifreddo with fresh strawberry salad, dark chocolate crémeux with wine-poached pears and vanilla sauce and lemon soufflé, Yes, please!
Boules, anyone?
On Sundays, there’s a set menu of palate-pleasers, such as yellowfin tuna, poached Franschhoek trout fillet and roast leg of lamb, which changes weekly.
So, don your striped top and beret, and get ready for an unforgettable French feast. There’s even a pétanque court – the perfect spot to while away a languid afternoon in the Winelands.
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