Stellenbosch and its Winelands are fuelled by a wealth of creative, culinary talent and top-end culinary distinction that offers something for all tastes.
Stellenbosch continues to push the gastronomic boundaries through innovation as SA’s undisputed Gourmet Capital and one of its favourite sons is Bertus Basson.
Stellenbosch-based culinary hotshot Bertus was crowned Eat Out San Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year at the 2019 Restaurant Awards with two restaurants named in the Top 15.
This is a huge (and well-deserved we must add) distinction for Bertus, and for those who get to work with him and learn from him. In true Bertus style, he will NOT be resting on his laurels and says: “It’s a great honour but a big responsibility. My responsibility for the next year is to be even more focussed on expressing South African heritage, and creatively telling the stories of our history, our people and our food.”
Treat yourself, and visit one (or more) of these fine establishments
Eike by Bertus Basson: You’ll find Eike at the lower end of Dorp Street, situated in a historic building. The name Eike is inspired by “Die Eikestad” or The Oak City, referencing the many oak trees planted in and around Stellenbosch. Eike celebrates traditional South-African cooking to its fullest by drawing inspiration from nostalgic food memories.
Open dinner from Tuesday to Saturday.
Contact: Call 021 007 4231 or email info@eikerestaurant.com
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Overture Restaurant is situated on the foothills of the Helderberg Mountain, where it found a home at Hidden Valley Wines. The restaurant has celebrated South Africa’s culinary heritage since its opening in 2007.
Open for lunch 7 days a week, and for dinner from Thursday to Saturday.
Contact: Call 021 880 2721 / 021 006 1039 or email info@dineatoverture.co.za
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The Deck, also situated at Hidden Valley is a self-help casual eatery on a floating deck with the most spectacular views. The menu is small and simple, but it will always feature the star of the show, a 100% free-range cheeseburger and as of recently wood-fired pizzas.
Open Mon-Sun from 11 am – 4 pm. Unfortunately, no reservations and we are weather dependent – so please call the team at Overture on 021 880 2721 to see if we’re open on a particular day.
Spek & Bone: Named after two of the Basson pets (a pig called Spek and pigs-best-dog-friend, Bone) this is a home-away-from-home hangout for Bertus and his family. He has his favourite music on the playlist and offers small plates determined by what’s in season and growing in his garden. Spek and Bone is a great hang-out any time of the day, and for all occasions.
Open for breakfast & lunch 7 days a week, and for dinner from Mon-Sat.
Contact: Call 082 569 8958 or email info@spekenbone.com
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De Vrije Burger is Bertus Basson’s ode to the hamburger. He loves eating burgers and has created what he thinks is the perfect burger in Stellenbosch – 100% Free-range beef, double cheese, home-made bun, and delicious trimmings, and not to forget the super fries. De Vrije Burger has won the Eat Out Everyday Eatery Best Burger Award in the Western Cape.
Open Mon-Sat from 11 am – 9 pm.
Unfortunately, no reservations or phone orders but one can order through UberEats.
This is just the tip of the iceberg for excellent culinary experiences around Stellenbosch. For more information and recommendations, contact Visit Stellenbosch on 021 886 4310 or pop in at the Visitor Centre at 47 Church Street, Stellenbosch.
