The rolling hills of Cape Town‘s wine country surround Durbanville, a foodie’s paradise. In addition to its rich history, stunning vineyards, and thriving culinary scene, this charming suburb offers a wide variety of dining options. Durbanville’s restaurants range from farm-to-table eateries to fine dining establishments. Take a culinary tour of the 10 best restaurants in Durbanville with me, complete with personal anecdotes, detailed reviews, and practical tips.
1. The Farm Eatery at Diemersdal
Where Classic French Meets Cape Flair
“Stepping into The Farm Eatery feels like entering a culinary wonderland. The restored stable, with its rustic charm, sets the stage for Chef Martin de Kock’s creative tapas menu. I still remember the double-baked Gruyère soufflé—it was so light and flavorful, I could have eaten three!”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: French-inspired tapas with Asian, Provençal, and Spanish influences.
- Must-Try: Chef’s menu (6 plates over 3 courses). Highlights include Cape salmon in sweet potato Thai curry velouté and roast duck with baby beetroot.
- Ambiance: A terrace overlooking vineyards and a spacious lawn for kids to play.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm
- Thursday – Saturday: 6pm – 9pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 3pm (set menu, reservations only)
- Contact: 021 976 1810, [email protected]
- Location: Diemersdal Wine Farm, Koeberg Road, Durbanville
2. De Grendel (Panorama)
Fine Dining with a View
“The first time I dined at De Grendel, I was speechless. The view of Table Mountain is breathtaking, but the food? Even better. Chef Ian Bergh’s locavore approach means every bite tells a story of the Cape.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Classic fine dining with a focus on local, organic ingredients.
- Must-Try: The pork belly and Chalmar beef fillet steak.
- Ambiance: Elegant and serene, perfect for special occasions.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Wednesday – Sunday: 11.30am – 1.30pm (last seating)
- Tuesday – Saturday: 6pm – 8pm (last seating)
- Contact: 021 558 7035, [email protected]
- Location: Plattekloof Road (M14), Durbanville, Cape Town
3. Groot Phesantekraal
Farm-Kitchen Charm at Its Best
“Groot Phesantekraal feels like stepping back in time. The restored mule stable is filled with history, and Chef Germaine Esau’s hyper-seasonal menu is a love letter to the farm.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Hearty farm-to-table dishes with a focus on seasonal produce.
- Must-Try: Lamb with smoked aubergine and potato-mushroom ‘risotto.’
- Ambiance: Rustic and timeless, with a family-friendly vibe.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm (kitchen closes at 3.30pm)
- Contact: 021 825 0060, [email protected]
- Location: Klipheuwel Road (R302), Durbanville, Cape Town
4. Annapurna
A Taste of North India in Durbanville*
“Annapurna is a hidden gem. The butter chicken is legendary, and the raitas? I could eat them by the bowlful. It’s no wonder locals keep coming back.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Authentic North Indian cuisine with vegan and low-carb options.
- Must-Try: Butter chicken and pathia (sweet-sour-hot curry).
- Ambiance: Cosy and unpretentious, perfect for a casual dinner.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Monday – Saturday: 4pm – 9pm
- Contact: 021 976 2046
- Location: Heritage Square, corner of Vrede & Gladstone Streets, Durbanville
5. Jéan Restaurant at Klein Roosboom
Boutique Dining Among the Vines*
“Jéan Restaurant is pure magic. The breakfast bagels are a must, and the sunset views over the vineyards are unforgettable.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Seasonal dishes with a South African twist.
- Must-Try: Turkish eggs and fire-grilled Chalmar sirloin steak.
- Ambiance: Intimate and picturesque, with live music events.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 9am – 4pm
- Contact: 086 057 2572, [email protected]
- Location: Tygerberg Valley Road (M13), Durbanville, Cape Town
6. Chocolat Bistro
Indulgence in Every Bite*
“Chocolat Bistro is a feast for the senses. The baroque interior, the fairy-lit garden, and the desserts—oh, the desserts! The fig-and-pecan baked cheesecake is a revelation.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: All-day dining with a focus on decadent desserts.
- Must-Try: Phyllo-wrapped fig-stuffed brie and red velvet cake.
- Ambiance: Whimsical and romantic, with a dedicated events space.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 7am – 10pm
- Sunday: 8am – 3pm
- Monday: 7am – 5pm
- Contact: 021 975 2426, [email protected]
- Location: 46 Oxford Street, Durbanville, Cape Town
7. The Tangram Restaurant at Durbanville Hills
Contemporary Dining with a View*
“Tangram’s double-volume glass walls offer panoramic views of Table Mountain. The oxtail raviolo is a masterpiece, and the complimentary wine pairings are a delightful touch.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Unpretentious yet sophisticated dishes.
- Must-Try: Oxtail raviolo and Chalmar beef fillet steak.
- Ambiance: Modern and elegant, with stunning views.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Monday – Sunday: 8.30am – 11am; 12pm – 3pm
- Tuesday – Saturday: 6pm – 10pm
- Contact: 021 558 1300, [email protected]
- Location: Tygerberg Valley Road (M13), Durbanville, Cape Town
8. Wilde Vy Bistro
Bold Flavors in a Breathtaking Setting*
“Wilde Vy Bistro is a revelation. The Huguenot cheese churros with Marmite mousse are addictive, and the fire-grilled pork chop is a showstopper.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Generous bistro cuisine with bold flavors.
- Must-Try: Citrus-cured salmon and fire-grilled pork chop.
- Ambiance: Relaxed and inviting, with indoor-outdoor seating.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Monday – Friday: 12pm – 9pm
- Saturday + Sunday: 10am – 9pm
- Contact: 064 643 9766
- Location: Hooggelegen Farm, Hooggelelegen Office Road, Durbanville
9. Starke Brews at Contermanskloof
Craft Beer and Pizzas in the Countryside*
“Starke Brews is a hidden gem for beer lovers. The Japanese-inspired rice lager is a must-try, and the pizzas are perfect for sharing after a mountain bike ride.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Artisanal pizzas and craft beer.
- Must-Try: Tasting flights and wood-fired pizzas.
- Ambiance: Casual and family-friendly, with a kids’ play area.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Friday: 12pm – 7pm
- Saturday: 11am – 6pm
- Sunday: 11am – 4pm
- Contact: 082 588 6933 (WhatsApp), [email protected]
- Location: Contermanskloof Road (off the M13), Durbanville
10. Saltwater Grill
Seafood Lovers’ Paradise*
“Saltwater Grill is a seafood haven. The Spanish seafood stew is a standout, and the vegan options are just as impressive.”
What Makes It Special?
- Cuisine: Fresh seafood with a global twist.
- Must-Try: Spanish seafood stew and sushi platters.
- Ambiance: Light and elegant, with a cosy fireplace.
Good to Know
- Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 11.30am – 10pm
- Sunday: 11.30am – 5pm
- Contact: 021 224 0063, [email protected]
- Location: 33 Oxford Street, Durbanville, Cape Town
FAQs About Dining in Durbanville
1. What is the best time to visit Durbanville restaurants?
Most restaurants are busiest during weekends, so weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience.
2. Are there vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, many restaurants, like Annapurna and Saltwater Grill, offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.
3. Do I need to make reservations?
For popular spots like The Farm Eatery and De Grendel, reservations are highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
Durbanville’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of flavors, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these 10 restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience. So, grab a fork and explore the best of Durbanville!
Disclaimer: WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. For the most accurate information, please contact the restaurants directly.
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