New Restaurants in the Winelands 2024

The Winelands are renowned for their scenic beauty and exceptional culinary offerings. Here’s a detailed look at the latest restaurants that have recently opened, adding to the region’s vibrant gastronomic scene.

1. Hōseki

Hōseki, meaning “jewel” in Japanese, has replaced the acclaimed Indochine Restaurant at Delaire Graff Estate. This new venture promises an elegant Japanese dining experience, characterized by subtle aromatics and contemporary flavors. Under the guidance of chef Virgil Kahn, the menu is seasonal, utilizing herbs and vegetables from the estate’s greenhouse and garden, ensuring a genuine farm-to-table experience. The restaurant’s luxurious, light-filled space offers breathtaking views of the Stellenbosch Winelands towards Table Mountain, creating a serene dining atmosphere.
Opening Times: Daily, 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 8pm (last seating)
Contact: 021 885 8160, restaurant.bookings@delaire.co.za
Location: Delaire Graff Estate, Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch

2. Nocturne

Nocturne is the brainchild of the innovative chef duo Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin. This new addition to Stellenbosch is a restaurant-bar that seamlessly integrates cocktails and food. The Dusk test kitchen and fermentation lab play a crucial role in crafting intriguing food combinations, while expert mixologists elevate the cocktail experience with sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients. Nocturne offers a unique dining adventure where culinary creativity and sustainability meet.
Opening Date: July 2023
Location: Stellenbosch

3. Vrymansfontein

Located on a working almond farm with stunning views on Suid-Agter Paarl Road, Vrymansfontein has been reimagined as a family-friendly wine-and-dining destination. Chef Kevin Grobler, known for his work at JAN Nice and Delaire Graff, has created a Mediterranean-inspired farm-to-table menu. The serene signature restaurant, Scape, offers flavorful shared plates, such as strawberry-and-goat’s cheese salad with pancetta and beetroot carpaccio with grapefruit and almond gremolata. Guests can also enjoy Levantine-style tapas at the Tree Bar terrace or relax on the lawns with casual dishes from the Gardens menu.
Opening Times: Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm (restaurants); 10am – 6pm (wine-tasting)
Contact: 082 617 4903, info@vrymansfontein.co.za
Location: Suid-Agter Paarl Road, Paarl

4. Mertia

Mertia, located in the old Standard Bank building in Stellenbosch, offers fine dining with a local touch. Chefs Marais Kirsten-Uys and Matt van den Berg have created an intimate and sophisticated space with a menu that combines nostalgia with contemporary flavors. Highlights include pampoen tart with venison and kingklip with brandade. The restaurant, named after Marais’ grandmother, features superb wine pairings by sommelier Tino Madzunguruse and impeccable service.
Opening Times: Wednesday, 5.30pm – 10pm; Thursday – Saturday, 12pm – 2pm, 5.30pm – 10pm; Sunday, 12pm – 4pm
Contact: 076 644 8448, reservations@mertia.co.za
Location: 20 Bird Street, Stellenbosch (entrance off Millstream side street)

5. Frank’s Corner Bar & Grill

Frank’s Corner Bar & Grill in Franschhoek brings a taste of contemporary North American cuisine to the region. This vibrant spot, co-owned by Frank Rodriguez, Alex McCormack, and Reuben Riffel, offers a comforting menu featuring dishes like corn dogs, blackened prawn tostadas, and Nashville hot chicken. The restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, providing a refreshing alternative to Franschhoek’s fine-dining scene with its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Contact: 021 488 9922
Location: 42 Huguenot St, Franschhoek

6. Gochu Gang

Gochu Gang, another venture by chef Darren Badenhorst, brings a lively Asian street food vibe to Stellenbosch. Situated on Andringa Street, this spot features a vibrant atmosphere with neon lights and energetic music. The menu includes sushi, bao buns, dim sum, and other Asian snacks, making it a hit for both dine-in and take-out options.
Opening Date: July 2023
Location: Shop 38, Eikestad Mall (on Andringa Street), Stellenbosch

7. Rykaart’s

Rykaart’s, previously located on Dorp Street, has moved to Longridge Estate. The restaurant, run by Alex and Ella Rykaart, continues to offer simple, contemporary flavors with a focus on organic ingredients. The new location features long, country-style tables on a wide terrace with stunning views. The three-course set menu, served family-style, pairs perfectly with Longridge’s biodynamic wines, creating a memorable dining experience.
Opening Times: Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm; Friday – Saturday, 6pm – 8.30pm
Contact: eat@rykaarts.co.zaLocation: Longridge Estate, Helderbergpad, off the R44 between Somerset West & Stellenbosch

8. Eleven

Eleven in Franschhoek, the sister restaurant to Ōku and Yama, offers global small plates inspired by contemporary flavors. Restaurateur Ryan Shell and chef Pieter du Preez focus on hyper-seasonal and foraged ingredients, continuing the legacy of the old Foliage space. The menu features beautifully presented dishes with a focus on versatility and seasonality, whether you’re after an à la carte lunch or a full tasting menu.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm; 6pm – 11pm
Contact: 021 023 3755, reservations@eleveneats.co.za
Location: 11 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek
These new restaurants in the Winelands offer diverse and exciting culinary experiences, from farm-to-table Mediterranean dishes to contemporary Japanese and North American cuisines, ensuring there’s something to delight every palate.