P
eter Karanja, guest services manager at Mont Rochelle Hotel and Vineyard, South Africa, recommends his favourite dining spots around the city.
Food style: International
Restaurant name: MIKO
Website: www.virginlimitededition.com/mont-rochelle
MIKO, the main restaurant at Mont Rochelle, offers unrivalled panoramic views across the Franschhoek valley, making it the perfect place to watch the sun set over the mountains, complete with a cocktail in hand. The kitchen serves up a blend of international dishes with a healthy nod to South African cuisine, as well as a superb wine selection, including Mont Rochelle’s very own homegrown vintages.
Food style: Fine Dining
Restaurant name: La Petite Colombe
Website: www.lapetitecolombe.com
The younger sister of the renowned La Colombe in Constantia, this restaurant has the wow factor. The seven-course tasting menu is quite a treat, but the team here can be flexible and assist with shorter menus and vegetarian options. But be warned: it’s not just the dining that’s impressive – securing a table can be equally so, and it’s advisable to book around three months in advance.
Food style: European
Restaurant name: Le Bon Vivan
Website: www.lebonvivant.co.za
An understated gem in Franschhoek, Le Bon Vivant pairs a relaxed atmosphere with impeccable dining and service. It’s closed on Wednesdays, but opens for lunch and dinner every other day and offers al fresco dining in the summer. The five-course ‘surprise’ menu is the best way to get a taste for what’s on offer, and can be enjoyed with wine pairings too.
Food style: International
Restaurant name: Reuben’s
Website: www.reubens.co.za
Head chef Reuben Ribbel came from a humble background and started his career by pure accident when another chef failed to turn up for a shift. Through hard work and dedication, he now has four restaurants, including his namesake in Franschhoek. It’s easy to see his passion – the cuisine is top quality, the service is unflawed, and the atmosphere is relaxed.
Food style: North Indian
Restaurant name: Marigold
Website: www.marigoldfranschhoek.com
Marigold breaks away from the traditional food offering in Franschhoek with a small plates menu of authentic North Indian cuisine. Each dish is filled with aromatic spices and just walking into this restaurant is a delight for the senses. I’d recommend ordering the vegetarian Marigold Thali to get a taste for the chef’s favourites – and there’s a non-vegetarian version to keep meat eaters happy too.
Our thanks to Peter and Mont Rochelle Hotel and Vineyard, South Africa www.virginlimitededition.com/mont-rochelle
