Hidden Culinary Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Foodie Experiences in the Cape

February 4, 2025

From Foraging Feasts to Indigenous Food and Wine Pairings

The Western Cape is a paradise for food lovers, known for its world-class restaurants and award-winning wine estates. But beyond the well-trodden paths of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek lies a world of hidden culinary treasures waiting to be discovered. If you're looking to explore unique and off-the-beaten-path foodie experiences, here are some secret gems that offer a taste of the Cape’s diverse flavours and rich heritage.

Identifying edible wild plants, seaweed, and indigenous herbs at Veld and Sea.

1. Veld and Sea – Foraging and Wild Cooking

For a truly immersive experience, venture to the coastal town of Scarborough, where Veld and Sea offers hands-on foraging workshops. Led by expert foragers, you’ll learn how to identify edible wild plants, seaweed, and indigenous herbs before preparing a seasonal feast in an open-fire kitchen. It’s a back-to-nature dining experience that showcases the Cape’s natural bounty in its purest form.

📍 Location: Scarborough | Experience: Wild foraging, sustainable cooking

2. Wolfgat – Coastal Foraged Fine Dining

Nestled in the charming fishing village of Paternoster, Wolfgat is a tiny, intimate restaurant that has taken the global culinary world by storm. Chef Kobus van der Merwe’s menu is inspired by the West Coast’s wild ingredients, with dishes crafted from foraged herbs, seaweed, and ethically sourced seafood. With only a handful of guests served per seating, dining at Wolfgat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that embodies the essence of place and seasonality.

📍 Location: Paternoster | Experience: Indigenous ingredients, coastal fine dining

The Table at De Meye sources fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farmers.

3. The Table at De Meye – Long Lazy Lunches in the Vineyards

Hidden away on a small boutique wine farm in Stellenbosch, The Table at De Meye is the ultimate slow food experience. With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers, their ever-changing set menu is served in a relaxed, family-style setting. Enjoy a leisurely meal under shady trees with a glass of wine, and soak in the tranquility of the Cape Winelands without the usual crowds.

📍 Location: Stellenbosch | Experience: Farm-to-table dining, relaxed vineyard setting

4. The Foodbarn – Fine Dining with a Rustic Twist

Tucked away in the quiet seaside village of Noordhoek, The Foodbarn offers fine dining with a relaxed, country-style atmosphere. Chef Franck Dangereux’s menu blends French culinary techniques with the best local produce, resulting in beautifully plated dishes bursting with flavor. It’s a hidden culinary treasure that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

📍 Location: Noordhoek | Experience: French-inspired fine dining in a casual setting

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Exploring the Tradition and Quality of South African Olive Oil

By Francois Viljoen • March 24, 2025

South Africa may be known for its world-class wines, but its olive oil industry is gaining global recognition for its exceptional quality, rich tradition, and artisanal craftsmanship. Nestled in the sun-drenched valleys of the Western Cape, the country’s olive oil producers are dedicated to creating cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oils that rival the best in the world. If you’re a food lover, traveller, or olive oil enthusiast, South Africa offers a variety of farms and tasting experiences where you can explore the nuances of locally produced olive oil, learn about the production process, and indulge in fresh, farm-to-table flavours.