It's worth hopping on the highway to Somerset West just to reach this showstopper "cellar in the sky"—one of the very best French restaurants in the greater Cape Town area, its reputation built on the sumptuousness of its surroundings and décor as much as on its food (and wine, of course). Stationed in a glass box high above the estate's biodynamic vineyards, the vista that spreads out beneath you is simply scintillating, with the Hottentots Holland mountains and all of False Bay filling in the backdrop. Built of glass, steel, and concrete over three levels, this is a totally contemporary take on Winelands dining, with precise, elegant cooking from a Burgundian chef who cut his teeth on Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe (and now does quite extraordinary things with super-fresh fish while forever dreaming up new ways of bending classic techniques to his will). Ingredients are invariably locally sourced and seasonal, this being close to a good many fine farms. The Magaliesberg duck à l'orange is beautifully prepared, as is the farmed quail, served with red cabbage, figs, and rhubarb. If you can't make up your mind, there's an indulgent degustation menu that'll satisfy your curiosity. You probably won't be able to tear your eyes off the view, but there's plenty of visual splendor inside as well, including a striking art selection, and a tip-top gravitational wine cellar.
Cape Town
Travel Guide
Cape Town› Restaurant
The Restaurant at Waterkloof
Waterkloof Estate
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Sir Lowry's Pass Village, Somerset West
Hours
Wed–Sun noon–2pm (last orders), Wed–Sat 7–9pm (last orders); summer also open Mon and Tues
Transportation
Follow the N2 out of the city to Somerset West; average driving time 30 minutes
Phone
+27 21 858 1491
Prices
A la carte two courses R260, three courses R340, degustation menu R500 without wine pairing, R600 with wine pairing
Cuisine Type
French
Web site
The Restaurant at Waterkloof
Map
Waterkloof Estate Cape TownNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.