From First Thursdays to Bottomless Bubbles – the valley is buzzing!
There’s something seriously delicious happening in Stellenbosch right now. From groundbreaking tastings to bubbly Fridays and pasta pairings that feel like a trip to Italy, the town is serving up flavour, flair and feel-good moments all winter long. Here’s what’s new and trending in our food and wine scene:
Sip on Something Unexpected at Lanzerac
Water, but make it fine. Lanzerac Wine Estate is now home to South Africa’s first fine water tasting experience, led by certified water sommelier Nico Pieterse. Just like fine wine, water has its own mineral profile, terroir and story – and Nico takes you on a guided tasting that’s as surprising as it is sophisticated. This global trend has finally arrived in South Africa, and Stellenbosch is leading the way.
First Thursdays Return – 7 August
Art, wine, design and delicious bites – all in one evening? First Thursdays are back, and the fourth edition kicks off on 7 August. From 5pm until late, Stellenbosch’s charming streets will be alive with gallery openings, curated menus, wine bars, music and boutique shopping. It’s the perfect midweek escape.
Keep an eye on first-thursdays-stellenbosch.co.za for programme updates.
Bubbles on Repeat at Dewarenmarkt
Fridays just got a lot more festive. Head to Dewarenmarkt every Friday between 16:30 and 18:00 for Bottomless Bubbles – unlimited Simonsig bubbly and three chef’s choice snacks, all for just R295 per person. It’s the ultimate way to toast the end of the week with friends.
Bubbles up!
Pasta & Wine Perfection at Idiom
Winter comfort meets culinary artistry with Idiom’s new Pasta Fusion Wine & Canapé Pairing. At R295 per person, this experience includes four perfectly paired wine and canapé combinations:
- Gnocchi and Pinot Grigio
- Pecorino cheese and Sangiovese
- Puttanesca tortellini with Barbera
- Smokey lamb paccheri and Zinfandel
Each bite is a journey, each sip a story. Book online for this unforgettable flavour fusion.
Meet the Alto Rouge Burger at Klein Alto
The newest restaurant on the Stellenbosch food map is Klein Alto, located on Bonte Rivier Vineyards. Already making waves, their Alto Rouge Burger was crafted specifically to complement the estate’s legendary red blend.
Expect a warm, welcoming menu with an Italian twist, thoughtfully paired with award-winning Alto wines. Lunch is served Wednesday to Sunday (11h00–17h00), with Wednesday Date Nights offering a romantic set menu until 21h00.
This winter, forget heading out of town — the best flavours are right here in Stellenbosch. Whether you’re in it for the wine, the art, or the endless bubbles, your table (and your next favourite experience) is waiting.
