Spring has sprung in the cape, and so have all the top restaurant’s new seasonal menus. There is no greater time to enjoy all the culinary delights this city and surrounds has to offer than when the flowers (and sun!) are out.
The Cape Winelands has many hidden treasures, none more so than Franschhoek. About an hour and fifteen-minute drive from Cape Town, this ‘French corner’ comes alive with the tradition and flavours of its namesake. A calender highlight for those planning to visit is Bastille day celebrated on the 14th of July every year.
A visit to Franschhoek, many will agree, is incomplete without visiting a fine dining restaurant. Ryan’s kitchen offers an a la carte, or a set seasonal menu for lunch and dinner.
I was there at lunchtime, whilst Ryan himself was prepping in the open plan kitchen with his team. The relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and indoor/outdoor dining space make you feel right at home.
The set menu is planned by the chef himself and is a tasting experience summarising all that the restaurant has to offer. That means you can sit back, relax and enjoy your wine without having to make a single decision about what to order. The only choice you’ll have to make, is what to drink with your food.
On that note, Ryan’s Kitchen is also home to the Black Elephant Vintners tasting studio- definitely worth a visit before lunch!
Ryan at work with the team.
Black Elephant Vintners Timothy wine- an extraordinary white blend that paired well with every course!
Snacks ahead of a delicious lunch.
Ryan’s kitchen’s ‘Pot Plant’- Watercress mousse with a mushroom crumble.
Trout tandoori, lightly seared, green melon- ginger and chilli pickle, yoghurt espuma, dusted curry leaf.
Prawn tapioca “pudding”, prawn crackers, spring onions, parmesan and lemon gel.
Pork belly, king oyster mushrooms, sweet potato puree, puffed crackling, Cape Malay Pickle jus.
Springbok Ravioli, black garlic aioli, Aged borenkaas, springbok consomme.
Rooibok loin, Dukkah crust, spiced chocolate puree, gold beetroot, crispy cavalenero.
Valronha Ghanian 68% Chocolate Slice, matcha, crumble and caramelized chicory ice-cream.
Pineapple souffle, toasted coconut ice-cream.
Planning a visit to Franschhoek? Why not try Ryan’s kitchen. You can find them at the below address.
1, Place Vendome, Huguenot Road, Franschhoek Lunch: Monday – Saturday 12:30 – 14:30 Dinner: Monday – Saturday 18:30 – 21:30 Closed on Sunday. Booking advised
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