Top 8 Culinary Experiences in South Africa

African Travel, Inc. asked their wonderful safari specialists for their favorite culinary experiences in South Africa and a below is a list of their top 8.

1. The Test Kitchen
The Test Kitchen, which opened in November 2010, has the celebrated Luke Dale-Roberts cooking at his most creative in a distinctive contemporary space. The Test Kitchen, as its name implies, affords Luke the opportunity for maximum innovation as a chef and the dishes are a pure reflection of his creativity with flavors and ingredients.

2. Constantia Valley
The Constantia Valley is the oldest wine producing region in South Africa, with a history of wine making that spans over 300 years. Some of the finest vineyards can be found in the valley, including Groot Constantia, Buitenverwachting, Constantia Uitsig, Klein Constantia, Steenberg to name a few. It is also home to some of Cape Town’s finest eateries, ranging from established favorites to hot, new restaurants. There is something for everyone. La Colombe on Silvermist Wine Estate is positioned among the top restaurants in the world. The Greenhouse at Cellars Hohenhort consistently elevates the benchmark of modern South African cuisine. Foxcroft offers a laidback fine dining experience, while Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia, offers cutting edge cuisine. Bistro Sixteen 82 at Steenberg is another stalwart on the Cape Town dining scene, known for its innovative tapas and bistro-style dining.

3. Stellenbosch
Established in 1679, Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa and is arguably one of the loveliest. Taking the “Bites & Sites Classic Cape Cuisine Walk” is a fascinating (and tasty!) introduction to this vibrant university town. Enjoy a tea and rusk tasting, sample a variety of white and red wines from various award-winning estates, savor a trilogy of fragrant Cape dishes, and experience the legendary local sweet treats like koeksister, milktart and malva pudding – all while touring the town’s romantic oak-lined streets and outdoor art exhibitions.

4. Farmers’ Markets
Capetonians love a great outdoor market, and the pop up markets are a celebration of local foods, culture and community. Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon, mingling with the locals, at one of the city's most popular weekly affairs. The markets have something for everyone, with specialty traders ranging from local farmers, fine-food purveyors, organic merchants, to celebrated local chefs. Taste your way through freshly baked breads, organic vegetables, handcrafted cheese, sausage, wine, chocolate, craft beer and more.

 5. Cooking with Cass Abrahams
A half day Cape Malay cooking experience with Cass Abrahams. Cass is a local chef and authority on Cape Malay cuisine. During her career she has travelled the world showcasing South African fare, ran restaurants and written cookbooks. She has made it her mission to rescue the traditional recipes and share her passion and pride with those seeking a deeper understanding of the local food culture. During a “hands-on” experience in her home you will have an introductory talk on the history of the cuisine and the many spices used, followed by the preparation of several dishes. Then it’s time to sit back, relax, and appreciate your handiwork as you enjoy lunch.

6. Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. The garden is at the heart of the farm, and is laid out over 8 acres, and divided into sections of fruit, vegetables, berries, bees for pollinating, indigenous plants, fragrant lawns, a prickly pear maze, ducks and chickens, and more. Every aspect of Babylonstoren is led by the ever-changing tapestry and botanical diversity of the garden. With a farm-to-fork philosophy, the menus are guided by what is available in the garden, and always reflects the season.

7. Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant
Set in the Moreson Winery, Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant is a staff favorite due to its rustic charm and laid-back atmosphere. Gorgeous trees provide a shaded retreat to enjoy the exquisite food, including the best charcuterie in South Africa hands down. 

 8. The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa Azure Restaurant
The Twelve Apostles is home to the award-winning Azure Restaurant and its magical international and indigenous cuisine. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the incredible views are some of the Mother City’s best and it is an overwhelming staff favorite for sundowners and sunsets. Whales can often be spotted in the mornings and afternoons, breaching right off the coast. Azure offers a high-end selection of entrees, including seafood, meats, and local African cuisine. From the delicate fresh oysters to the massive seafood platter, guests’ taste buds are infused by the finest organic ingredients and brilliant flavor combinations.