Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch’s 15 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)
The best restaurants in Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch has earned a reputation as one of South Africa’s top foodie destinations and it’s not hard to see why. With a mix of old-school charm and fresh, innovative kitchens, this town offers an impressive lineup of restaurants that serve up everything from juicy steaks to bespoke desserts. With so many great restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start – that’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up our favourite spots that do more than just feed you; they give you an experience worth talking about.
01
Post & Pepper
Walking into Post & Pepper feels like stumbling upon a well-kept secret in Stellenbosch. Housed in a charming old post office, the space blends historic architecture with modern features – beautiful high ceilings, moody lighting and touches of contemporary decor. Chef-owner Jess van Dyk, formerly of La Colombe Restaurant, showcases her expertise at Post & Pepper with a playful menu that combines South African classics with Asian twists. The must-try dish here is the crispy pork belly with miso caramel. You also can’t go wrong with the coconut curry. And don’t miss out on their creative cocktails, the Postman’s Punch is a winner!
Post & Pepper
Oude Postkantoor
c\o Bird and Plein St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Oude Postkantoor
c\o Bird and Plein St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Post & Pepper
02
The Fat Butcher
If you’re a steak lover, The Fat Butcher is the place to be in Stellenbosch. This steakhouse has earned a reputation for excellence, serving up top-quality cuts from ribeye to fillet, you won’t be disappointed by their steaks. One standout dish is the biltong-crusted fillet, a nod to South African flavours. It’s juicy, tender and they cook it just the way you like it. This dish pairs beautifully with their bone marrow gravy and a side of truffle fries. The Fat Butcher’s rustic yet stylish setting, complete with timeless décor and friendly service, makes it a must-visit spot in Stellenbosch if you are on the hunt for a steak dinner.
The Fat Butcher
1 Van Riebeeck St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
1 Van Riebeeck St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of The Fat Butcher
03
Dusk Restaurant
Dusk Restaurant is an experiential dining destination that pushes the boundaries of traditional fine dining. Chef Darren Badenhorst and his team focus on sustainability and seasonality, creating a 13-course tasting menu that’s both innovative and delicious. The restaurant’s dark, intimate setting enhances the theatrical presentation of each dish. When dining at Dusk restaurant expect to see local and indigenous ingredients used in creative ways, with a strong emphasis on foraging and fermentation. One of the dishes in the tasting menu that stood out for us, was the wagyu beef tartare with truffle and miso. But honestly, part of the fun here is going in with no expectations and letting Dusk’s chefs take you on a wild culinary ride.
Dusk Restaurant
43 Plein St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
43 Plein St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Dusk Restaurant
04
De Eetkamer
Hidden away in a heritage stable building, De Eetkamer is the kind of place where you want to linger. De Eetkamer has an intimate setting, complete with rustic wooden tables and vintage touches. The oak-shaded courtyard is a lovely spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Chef Marco Cardoso, who has worked with renowned chefs like Liam Tomlin, carefully curated a menu that is small but features hearty, flavour-packed dishes. The small plates are perfect for sharing and must-try dishes include the Korean-style fried cauliflower and pan-fried gnocchi. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that there’s always something new to try.
De Eetkamer
3 Drostdy Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
3 Drostdy Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of De Eetkamer
05
Spek & Bone
Spek & Bone is a quirky, laid-back eatery named after chef Bertus Basson’s pet pig and dog. Owned by the charismatic Bertus Basson, this spot is all about sharing plates, good vibes and a bit of mischief. The courtyard, shaded by a massive oak tree, is the perfect place to enjoy a meal on a sunny day. The grilled octopus with chimichurri is a personal favourite – perfectly charred, zesty and begging to be paired with one of their local craft beers. And whatever you do, save room for dessert – the milk tart with lemon is a playful twist on a South African classic that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
Spek & Bone
84 Dorp St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
84 Dorp St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Spek & Bone
06
Hoseki
Hōseki, located at the Delaire Graff Estate, is a standout for its contemporary Japanese cuisine. The name Hōseki means jewel in Japanese, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and elegance. Head Chef Virgil Kahn, known for his work at Gordon Ramsay’s Maze and Nobu, brings his expertise to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. We recommend doing the Omakase tasting experience, where the chef selects the dishes for you. The restaurant’s interior is equally impressive, with a striking art installation of swallows in flight, symbolising good luck.
Hōseki
Delaire Graff Estate
Helshoogte Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Hōseki
07
Eike
Eike is all about celebrating South African flavours in a way that feels both familiar and new. Located on Stellenbosch’s historic Dorp Street, the restaurant serves a tasting menu that changes often, focusing on local, seasonal ingredients. Bertus Basson, a well-known South African chef, uses each dish to tell a story, whether it’s a playful take on a classic braai or a tribute to traditional comfort food, you can expect anything from slow-cooked lamb to innovative hake tomato bredie. The wine pairing options are a standout, featuring a curated selection of local wines that complement each course perfectly.
Eike
50 Dorp St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Eike
08
Mertia
Mertia is a newcomer to Stellenbosch’s fine dining scene but has quickly made a name for itself. Marais Kirsten-Uys and Chef Matt van den Berg started Mertia, named after Marais’s grandmother, with the vision of offering a fine dining experience with traditional roots. The restaurant’s open layout and stylish design make Mertia feel sophisticated without being overly formal, with a minimalist design featuring wood finishes and soft lighting. At Mertia you can enjoy a curated tasting menu or opt for a la carte options, each paired thoughtfully with a selection of regional wines. With dishes like fish collar with ratatouille and hen’s egg with truffle, Mertia offers a culinary journey that’s both innovative and rooted in tradition.
Mertia
20 Bird St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Mertia
09
Tokara Restaurant
Located atop the Helshoogte Pass, Tokara Restaurant offers breathtaking views along with its exquisite cuisine. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the landscape. Head Chef Carolize Coetzee brings her creative flair to a menu that features a variety of options, from seared gamefish to Korean fried exotic mushrooms. Tokara’s wine list is equally impressive, featuring selections from the Tokara Estate’s own vineyards. We also love the outside terrace with surrounding vineyards, it’s an ideal spot to dine under the stars on a beautiful summer night.
Tokara Restaurant
R 310 Helshoogte Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Tokara Restaurant
10
Gåte Restaurant
Gåte Restaurant at Quoin Rock Wine Estate is where fine dining meets innovation, blending art, science and South African heritage on every plate. Gåte Restaurant offers a multi-sensory dining experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional cuisine. The menu is a journey through playful, molecular gastronomy-inspired dishes, with each course crafted to surprise and delight your senses. Expect elements like edible foams, gels and deconstructed classics, all presented in a way that feels more like performance art than dinner. Gåte Restaurant’s tasting menu is perfect if you are open to trying something different and don’t mind being a little adventurous with your food.
Gåte Restaurant
Quoin Rock Wine Estate
7600 Knorhoek Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Gåte Restaurant
11
De Vier
At De Vier in Stellenbosch, you’ll feel an immediate sense of warmth and sophistication. The simple yet striking decor draws your eye, with clean lines and large windows framing the vineyards outside. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to settle in, while the open kitchen adds a buzz of excitement. The menu centres on four standout dishes – beef, chicken, seafood and a tasty vegan option – all crafted with care and attention to detail. The butter-basted beef melts in your mouth, while the seafood offers a fresh burst of flavour. Each dish is paired perfectly with local wines, making the whole experience feel both indulgent and laid-back.
De Vier
19 Mark St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of De Vier
12
De Volkskombuis
At De Volkskombuis, the moment you arrive, Stellenbosch’s history pulls you in. Restored in 2021, this iconic spot blends old-world charm with a fresh, open feel. You can sit under the oak trees or by a crackling fire, feeling cosy and relaxed. The menu keeps things simple but special, with highlights like the slow-cooked oxtail potjie that falls off the bone and a smoked tomato risotto bursting with flavour. The place has a warm, easy-going vibe, and the staff make you feel right at home.
De Volkskombuis
1876 Ou Strandpad Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of De Volkskombuis
13
Helena’s Restaurant
At Helena’s Restaurant in the historic Coopmanhuijs Hotel Hotel & Spa, you’ll find a cosy, elegant atmosphere. The dining room’s beautiful yellowwood ceiling and French wallpaper give it an old-world charm, while the glass-roofed conservatory is bright and airy, though it can feel a bit warm on sunny days. The menu showcases South African classics with a modern twist. The cider-braised pork cheeks are tender and packed with flavour, while the lamb rack with krummelpap is a real highlight. For dessert, japie se gunsteling, a citrusy baked pudding, brings a nostalgic touch. Service is friendly, though at times a bit too quick, which can leave you feeling rushed. Despite this, the warm setting and thoughtful menu make it a memorable dining experience.
Helena’s Restaurant
Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa
33 Church St
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Helena’s Restaurant
14
De Vrije Burger
Some days, all we want is to sink our teeth into a juicy burger. For those occasions, De Vrije Burger, by celebrity chef Bertus Basson, is the place to go. Tucked in the heart of Stellenbosch, this cosy spot keeps it simple with one major star: a 200g free-range beef burger packed with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions and double cheese, all wrapped in a soft brioche bun. Pair it with hand-cut chips and the smoked chilli sauce is a must-try for an extra kick. To finish, a soft-serve ice cream offers a nostalgic and sweet end to the meal, making it the perfect way to wrap up this laid-back, delicious burger experience. De Vrije Burger also offers wine by the bottle.
De Vrije Burger
13 Drostdy Rd
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of De Vrije Burger
15
Minari
When you’re in the mood for something bold and exciting, Minari is the spot to check out. Tucked away in Simonsplein courtyard, it’s a cosy place with a laid-back vibe. The wooden interiors and warm lighting make you feel right at home. The food? Absolutely packed with flavour. The soy and honey chicken wings are a must – crispy, sticky and full of deliciousness. If you’re after something heartier, the Shin Ramyun is perfect, with its spicy broth, noodles and tender beef. It’s the kind of food that warms you up from the inside.
Minari
Shop 5
Simonsplein Centre
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Minari
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