South Africa is renowned not only for the awe-inspiring Kruger National Park and its iconic Big Five, but also for its exceptional wine and scenic vineyards. The flavourful vintages from regions like Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Wellington and Paarl have earned global acclaim.
Why not elevate your safari adventure with a visit to these extraordinary winelands? After marvelling at the Big Five in their natural habitat, check out our top five winery restaurants in South Africa, where you can enjoy an exceptional culinary experience. Savour an intimate, three-course al fresco meal, where you can sample some traditional South African dishes, perfectly paired with some world-class wines. Bon appétit!
1. Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek
Owned by British billionaire Richard Branson, Mont Rochelle’s chic MIKO Restaurant, serves an attractive selection of South African and international fusion cuisine. However, we prefer the informal atmosphere of The Country Kitchen, where you can have a relaxed lunch in the sunshine. It is located next to the wine cellar, and you can indulge in light snacks and delicious local wines throughout the day.
The shared platters, consisting of local South African cheeses and charcuterie, and homemade preserves, are particularly recommended.
Insider tip: The friendly kitchen team can put together a picnic basket for you, which can be savoured under the shade of a tree on this serene, spacious property.
2. La Petite Colombe, Franschhoek
Our experts regard La Petite as one of the best winery restaurants in South Africa. It is located in the boutique hotel Le Quartier Français. The original La Colombe in Constantia continues to be acclaimed as one of South Africa’s top ten restaurants, and its offshoot in Franschhoek is just as amazing. La Petite Colombe is extremely popular among the elite of Cape Town, so we recommend booking early to experience the adventurous menu prepared by its chef-owner, Scot Kirton.
You should definitely try the tasting menu, along with some of the region’s finest wines. In order to fully enjoy the meal, we recommend having only a light lunch beforehand.
3. Val du Charron, Wellington
The Val du Charron estate in Wellington is just an hour’s drive from Cape Town. You can choose between two interesting restaurants, both if which offer stunning views of the Hawekwa Mountains. The Grill Room, located at the veranda offers a sumptuous array of meat dishes – grain and grass fed beef, venison, steak tartare, oxtail, and the South African classic, biltong.
Alternatively, you can head for the family-friendly Italian restaurant Piza e Vino for an authentic Italian experience before touring the olive groves and wine cellar. During your tour, you will get to sample several of the estate’s excellent wines.
Our post on the best winery restaurants in South Africa continues below these holiday ideas
South Africa: Kruger And Cape Town Holidays
South Africa: Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari
4. Grande Roche, Paarl
The stylish ambiance of the Grand Roche Restaurant, located within the intimate luxury hotel of the same name, evokes nostalgic memories of days gone by. The culinary experience curated by acclaimed chef Christiaan Campbell is an elegant affair. As you tuck into the delicious menu, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For special occasions, you can reserve a private dining room overlooking the pool patio, which seats up to 14 people. The room’s glittering chandeliers and a fireplace give it a particularly festive atmosphere.
5. Idiom Wine Estate, Cape Peninsula
The Idiom Wine Estate offers panoramic views of the Cape Peninsula and the stunning Helderberg Mountains, and a casual fine dining experience. The restaurant’s à la carte menu offers modern interpretations of classic South African and Italian dishes, which you can savour with the estate’s ten award-winning wines.
The regional pizza menu, which celebrates local flavours (including the classic Margherita) is recommended for the whole family. One of Idiom’s unique features is the Vinotria Italian Wine Library, which over 250 wines from across Italy and highlights Italy’s main winemaking regions. On warmer days, you can enjoy an al fresco dining on the sunny terraza.
Africa inspiration
For more exciting destination ideas, browse these Africa pages and start planning your next adventure.
Let's Chat
We have answers to all your questions.
Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists
Sign up for our newsletter
Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.
Three Easy Steps to a Tailor-made Holiday
The Hayes & Jarvis Way
Since 1952, our travel experts have been traversing the world to connect you with the very best our 60+ destinations have to offer. Tell us what your dream trip entails and we will craft it for you with precision and passion.
