Scape’s winter weekday special is to di(n)e for!
A working almond farm with spectacular views on the Suid-Agter Paarl road, Vrymansfontein has settled into its reimagination as a wine-and-dining destination for families and foodies. Owner Max Ward (of the Vondeling wines family) has transformed the old wine cellars into beautifully designed and versatile spaces, where you can linger over a long lunch in the serene restaurant, enjoy casual Levantine-inspired shared plates at the bar on the shaded terrace, or laze on the lawn… All the while, tasting the whole range of Vondeling wines while you soak up the views.
Scape’s weekday winter special
Winter comfort-food flavours prevail on Scape’s winter special menu where a roaring fire keeps things toasty. The way to go is to order a different dish each, be prepared to share, and tuck into a feast. French onion soup, salt-baked beetroot and ricotta with candied almonds, or bruschetta of marinated peppers, olive and anchovy are the starters. Then for mains choose between slow-roast pork belly; braised beef short-rib with potato gnocchi; mussels with parma ham, cream and white wine; or eggplant parmesan. And there are two sides each… think crispy potatoes, honey-roast carrots or charred pumpkin with capers and labneh. Dessert may not seem essential after such a cornucopia, but the likes of the Basque chocolate cheesecake with naartjie ice cream is hard to resist.
Good to know The winter special includes 1 bottle of Vondeling wine to share between 2 people.
Cost R455 (2 courses)
R545 (3 courses)
When Wednesday – Friday, lunch + dinner
Valid until 31 August 2024
Book through DinePlan
The Vrymansfontein philosophy
“The menu is inspired by the beautiful simplicity of the dishes found throughout the Mediterranean region – a flawlessly roasted piece of fish, a four-ingredient steak tartare using the best fillet there is, or our house favourite – veld-reared rotisserie chicken,” explains Max. As such, chef Kevin Grobler has created a menu of simple yet refined dishes – appetisers, salads and mains – designed to be shared family style.
Alfresco eats
When it’s sunny, head to The Tree Bar on the view-drenched terrace and enjoy alfresco small plates, snacks and fire food from the easy-going Levantine-inspired menu. Think falafel, gazpacho, tabouleh, hummus, roast chicken, with pita and naan, and a bottle (or a tasting flight) of wine, a cocktail, or a craft beer. At the end of the terrace are green lawns, the perfect place to spread out a blanket in summer.
Wine tasting
Vondeling Wines take centre stage at the Tasting Bar, with a diverse selection of beauties, from the fresh and bright Vondeling Rosé perfect for summer sipping to the flagship Babiana white blend, structured and elegant and a fitting accompaniment to the food.
Welcoming, beautifully conceived, and delicious at every mouthful, Vrymansfontein is one to add to your Paarl Winelands list.
Good to know It’s a cashless establishment. No pets allowed.
Opening times Restaurants: Wednesday – Saturday, 12pm – 10pm
Sunday, 12pm – 6pm
Wine-tasting: Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Contact 082 617 4903, info@vrymansfontein.co.za
Where to find it Suid-Agter Paarl Road, Paarl
Book through DinePlan
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