South Africa boasts a whirlwind of attractions besides mainly being known for the Big-5 and their safaris. The country is culturally diverse in all aspects having over 11 different languages and a multitude of tribes it is no wonder there is so much to see and do. Aside from culture and safari the ocean and beaches are widely visited too, being home to one of the 7 wonders of the world: Table Mountain is just another reason to visit. When it comes to food, South Africa offers unbelievable meat first-off, it is something they are known for. However, their cuisine whether authentic or from other origins never disappoints- the availability of fresh seafood and delicate mat cuts allows them to offer great food and great produce. These are a few of the top fine dining spots the country offers.
The Top Spots For Fine Dining In South Africa
La Colombe, Constantia
Based in Constantia in the Western Cape this restaurant is surrounded by great scenery, greenery, and vineyards. The restaurant infuses tastes and themes from Asia and India to bring together a menu that highlights seafood and meat all locally sourced. It has been rated the best restaurant in South Africa with its menu being a total experience. From the presentation to the setting the restaurant is simplistic, aesthetic, and chic. La Colombe was ranked at 13th place in Top Fine Dining in the World by Trip Advisor and received the World Culinary Award for Best Restaurant in Africa.
The Test Kitchen, Woodstock
Located at The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, Western Cape- The Test Kitchen is the artwork of chef Luke Dale Roberts. Roberts was born in Britain but trained in both Switzerland and England. He opened, multiple restaurants in Asia- in Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and the Philippines. Luke was actually the executive chef at La Colombe for five consecutive years before his own ventures. The restaurant is an inventive concept with contemporary decor. The food is regarded as nouvelle latin and their menu includes up to 16-course meals- an artistic experience.
Bel Punto, Umdloti
Bel Punto is somewhat more casual, as is KZN in general. This fine-dining spot is set right by the ocean. Umdloti, Kwazulu-Natal is based on the Indian Ocean, meaning fresh seafood and tons of it. The Italian restaurant offers incredible seafood and great value for money. The restaurant is family-owned and run, meaning authentic Italian cuisine- steaks, seafood, and everything with that homey Italian touch. The restaurant is highly rated and recommended, it is not as inventive and artistic as the above mentioned as the idea is for an authentic and very home-style Italian feel. The restaurant is relaxing, the food is filling and you will certainly be dying to come back for more. Specialties include seafood pasta, calamari, fresh fish, Italian-style chicken dishes and so much more. All of which can be complemented by Italian or South African wines whilst overlooking the magnificent Indian Ocean. It is no wonder it is adored by locals too.
