Franschhoek

Franschhoek is a town in South Africa’s Western Cape with centuries-old vineyards and Cape Dutch architecture. Trails wind through flowers and wildlife at Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve to views over Franschhoek Valley. The Huguenot Memorial Museum and neighboring monument honor the area’s French settlers, who arrived in the 17th and 18th centuries. Franschhoek Motor Museum displays vintage cars amid mountain farmland.
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4.7
(1564)
4.7
(160)
Mentioned on 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve is a stunning mountain conservation area in Franschhoek, South Africa. It is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, boasting 5,000 unique plant species. The reserve offers various hiking trails that wind through diverse flora and fauna, providing breathtaking vistas of the Franschhoek Valley. From relatively flat walks like the Breakfast Trail to more challenging hikes such as the Vista Trail and Dutoitskop, there's something for every hiker.
What a stunning location! Would love to come back to conquer a longer trail next time. Regret we had a cloudy morning but that didn't spoil things - instead of the view we had a nice cool morning hike out of the sun which was actually a pleasant and refreshing bonus.
Ben S — Google review
Beautiful nature reserve - very accessible just outside Franschhoek. There are lots of hikes available, but it is advisable to get a proper map or hiking App, as there are many paths which might confuse you a little. Would go back anytime!
Thomas M — Google review
Very beautiful high alpine terrain (above tree zone). Lots of flowers, great views of surroundings. Only few people.
Ingmar P — Google review
Card payments only. As you enter you are greeted by friendly staff members. They are well informed about all the trails to hike which made it easy to choose the perfect hiking trail for me.
Michelle G — Google review
You can buy the permits online via the website. No cash. The trails are well prepared and marked. It’s impossible to get lost. There are many endemic animals and plants. The views are magnificent. I recommend Perdekop trail
Anna S — Google review
absolutely breathtaking! we did the uitkyk trail, it was amazing being surrounded by beautiful mountains and proteas! the view at uitkyk is indescribable! highly recommend doing this trail! routes are well maintained and marked.
Sulindi P — Google review
This is one of the most beautiful places in the world for me. Awesome trails
Sarel W — Google review
Picturesque and serene! Great option for a day trip out to Franschhoek and not too strenuous.
Sean J — Google review
4.4
(830)
4.0
(465)
Mentioned on 
Ethnographic museum
Museums
History Museums
Located at the end of Franschhoek's Main Street with a stunning mountainous backdrop, the Huguenot Memorial Museum tells the captivating story of the French Huguenots who settled in the area in the mid-1800s. The museum offers an intriguing look into how this community influenced the cultural, natural, gastronomic, and viticultural attractions of Franschhoek.
Absolutely brilliant chronological order layout of the history. The 3 museums are inviting and informative, and the exhibitions are excellently presented. It is one of the best museums in South Africa. The monument itself it well maintained, and the gardens are kept to perfection.
Lisa P — Google review
Interesting, but when you see it once, you don't need to go again. For me, I was a bit disappointing, and I expected more. Good to see that they are doing maintenance on the building.
Elfrieda S — Google review
A wonderful experience as it was the first time that I have visited the museums as well. They are well maintained and are very neat. It is a pity that the fountain in front of the memorial did not have water and the lawn was in a poor state. Visitors should also look out for electric cables on the ground. Will encourage people to visit this site.
Timmybear T — Google review
The Huguenot Museum is a beautiful and well-maintained site with lovely gardens and clean, welcoming spaces. The exhibits are fascinating, and I really appreciated the modern touch of wall prints with easy-to-read information. One of the highlights was discovering the list of surnames from the original ships—such a special experience to see if your own name is included. The adjoining perfume museum is also a delightful bonus. A thoughtful and enriching visit all around!
Tandyn G — Google review
An absolute must to support our heritage and so very interesting Clean and beautifully preserved history
Jeanette B — Google review
I love local and international history and this museum delivered on both fronts. Easy to walk through. Variety of exhibits. Informative to both people who know the history and first-time visitors. Museum was in very good condition and there is an option to walk outside and see other monuments nearby included in the ticket price.
Rosalynn S — Google review
You will find the Huguenot Memorial Museum at the edge of town, on a beautiful tract of land, in an elegant, classically styled white building. Given the fact that so much of the history of Franschhoek is tied to the settlement of the Huguenots in the region, this is a must-see to those interested of finding out more about the creation and development of the town. Go in the afternoon, but arrive before 4:15 to be able to buy a ticket.
Georges Y — Google review
It was extremely interesting, especially for me as a history teacher. I learnt so much more, and it obviously filled gaps, I found out more than what the textbook taught me. Franschhoek carries much of our history and the fact that it is so good at preserving it for the future, what interests me more.
TARRYN C — Google review
Lambrechts Rd, Dirkie Uys St, &, Franschhoek, South Africahttp://www.museum.co.za/+27 63 758 1623Tips and more reviews for Huguenot Memorial Museum
4.7
(115)
4.7
(1088)
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Mountain pass
Outdoor Activities
Scenic Drives
Franschhoek Pass is a renowned mountain pass offering a scenic drive with lookout points that provide stunning views of mountains and valleys. The road R45, located at a distance of 1 hour 10 minutes from Cape Town, leads to this picturesque route. As you traverse the pass, you'll be greeted by lush meadows and vineyards in the Franschhoek Valley. The area's rich history and natural beauty make it an enchanting experience for travelers.
If you're on your way to Franschhoek and have the time, take this mountain pass to town. The road is gorgeous and not difficult to drive. You will be rewarded with beautiful panoramas of rocks, mountains, ravines and more. If you're so inclined, you can also hike a trail that is easy to find. The entrance to Franschhoek from the pass is very dramatic. Stop for a few minutes and take a few pix!
Georges Y — Google review
We visited here as a road to Franschheok from Wilderness. We didn’t know that there is a pass here. This pass is awesome! You can enjoy beautiful mountains and canyons. There are not many cars in the road. And there are some points to park the car and see the view. Is it worth to visit? Absolutely! Here is just 5-10minutes from Franschhoek. And round trip from Franschhoek would be take an hour. Highly recommended!
Mothusi — Google review
The Franschhoek Pass is absolutely stunning! A breathtaking drive surrounded by towering mountains and lush valleys. Every turn reveals another postcard-perfect view of valleys, vineyards and rugged peaks. By far one of the most scenic routes in the Western Cape. The road is smooth but winding and popular with cyclists, so do take it slow and savour the breathtaking scenery.
Kate Z — Google review
It is beautiful at the top. Breathtaking views.
Nothando H — Google review
Beautiful views as you drive through the road. A lot of stops along the way to take pictures.
Shahar G — Google review
Very pretty views 💓💓
Rebekah H — Google review
This is a beautiful drive that one should definitely do on a sunny day to be able to appreciate its beauty to the fullest! I would recommend driving with caution as there are many turns, trucks and an occasional cyclist on the road.
Catherine A — Google review
The best mountain pass in South Africa. Heaven on earth for keen drivers, but beware the treacherous drops and steep turns. Rather take it slowly and enjoy the spectacular views. There are many excellent viewpoints to stop at along the route. Superbly smooth surface and in excellent condition.
Cobus P — Google review
Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa, USATips and more reviews for Franschhoek Pass
4.3
(1167)
3.9
(305)
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Sights & Landmarks
Monuments & Statues
The Huguenot Memorial Monument, situated at the end of Franschhoek's main street, pays tribute to the Huguenot immigrants who sought refuge in the area during the 1600s and 1700s. The monument, erected in the 1940s, stands as a striking town feature surrounded by beautiful rose bushes and rolling lawns.
Beautiful views, old furniture and loads of pieces, this museum and monument is a must visit. There is a ton of history about the French Huguenots that come to South Africa. There is planets of parking in the street. And tickets are available across the street in the annex. There is also a wonderful perfume museum to smell around. I recommend coming during summer or when it’s not raining, as you will walk between the shops and places.
Warwick M — Google review
Monument was closed on a weekday without any notice. Dissapointing.
Joseph G — Google review
So pretty...eish I'm going to be honest I have no idea what it's all about but it's nice on the photo lol PS. Franshoek is not halaal friendly
Rinaaz S — Google review
If you visit be aware the ticket office is over the road in the annex. You have to read and enjoy history - great place. The actual museum was still in progress when we visited but was fantastic!!! Well worth a visit
Alan C — Google review
Food is so good. You can't finish everything
Michael R — Google review
Amazing place to go to for a Sunday afternoon drive. So much to see and so much to do. Art gallery's, shops and restaurants galore. All I can give is my opinion of what I experienced and I had a great one. All of this to see in Franschhoek.
Verity C — Google review
This is really the cultural centre of Franschhoek and the history goes back more than 100 years. It's set at the end of the main road and you can't miss it when you vist the town. It's easy to see that it's very well maintained and cared for. However, to visit the museum costs a whopping R100 per person which is a rather ex0000orbitant amount for locals. It's very popular with selfie seekers and there are plenty of signs warning you not to climb over the walls.
Duncan A — Google review
Good historical site great for pics
Amanda M — Google review
4.6
(198)
Mentioned on 
Tourist information center
Nestled in the picturesque Franschhoek Wine Valley, Haute Cabriere offers not only delicious dining but also stunning views. For those seeking outdoor activities, the area boasts sports clubs and diverse leisure options such as golfing at Pearl Valley Golf Course and horseback riding at Val de Vie Equestrian Club. The town itself is a charming destination with museums, art galleries, restaurants, and bars to explore. Visitors can indulge in wine tasting at numerous vineyards while enjoying breathtaking landscapes.
Breath Taking landscapes, beautiful wine yards, interesting restaurants and pubs... All what you need in that region. A definite place to visit!!!
Krisnen M — Google review
The Scene from Franschhoek Pass is Pure Bliss...Love to look down on the Valley Below❤💫🌟❤
BENJAMIN P — Google review
Franschhoek is glorious. Lots of wine farms, restaurants and little gift shops. Lots to do, eat, drink and buy
Shabana R — Google review
Great views, wine and variety of wine estates catering for all tastes
Graham M — Google review
Franschhoek is my favorite place to be. It is well situated for visiting some of the most beautiful wine farms. It is a nice little town with a lot of museums, art galleries, restaurants and bars. I personally love to stay here.
Theuns B — Google review
I Have Lived here for 16yrs & Love it, my little Heaven on Earth !
Michael D — Google review
Went to a fun morning with the elderly of Fleur de Lis. What a nice morning!
Elmarie V — Google review
Lovely place but aimed at tourists and expensive. Didn't find any vineyards worth paying the high tasting cost. Other areas are much cheaper or free or offer something worth the money that means value. Locals avoid it Only place to really recommend would be the old station bar / restaurant which has a good range of food and drink at reasonable prices
Neil S — Google review

Top places to eat

4.8
(1103)
4.5
(874)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Restaurant
La Petite Colombe, located in the heart of the Franschhoek Wine Valley, is a relaxed and refined newcomer that has quickly established itself as a gem in the local dining scene. Headed by the talented chef John Norris-Rogers, who honed his skills under La Colombe's Scot Kirton and James Gaag, this restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
The service, the presentation, the combination of taste, the atmosphere… it was quite the experience to not miss out on. It’s an interactive experience with some entertainment on how they serve the dishes. The tasting menu was a lot of food, way too much- they could have cut down on some courses or portions. But everything was great!
Natalie D — Google review
The long drive from the gates of Leeuw Winefarms to the restaurant only served to increase our anticipation for what was to come - a world class dining experience that was just sensational. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted & whisked to a lounge area where the history, philosophy & background was explained. A “picnic” basket of 3 delightful morsels of taste sensations were served with the last being an “olive” which simply bursts in your mouth with olive flavours. Great start before being shown to our table. What followed next were 13 courses of simply delectable courses (some bite sizes, some more substantial). The chef definitely knew what he was doing & all our senses : sight, taste, smell were teased & satisfied. Several dishes had the wow factor with combinations & textures that I had not experienced. Some dishes were a little overdone in the sense that so much was going on that it was easy to not notice certain ingredients but overall it was a great experience. South African wines featured heavily but an international selection was also available. Service was exemplary & dinner was served at a nice pace. Overall it took us just over 3 hours & it was delightful. The restaurant ambience was very nice, lighting subdued but bright enough to see what we were eating clearly. As the restaurant is located in the middle of a winefarm, daytime views must be stunning but as we dined in the evening, we could only imagine the views! Cheese & dessert were served as separate included course followed by a dessert trolley at the end which took us by surprise. We were practically rolling ourselves out by the end as very happy & satisfied customers. A must do experience if you are after a fine dining experience in Franschhoek & reservations are essential. Kudos to the entire team for an excellent experience!
BC Q — Google review
Best meal I’ve had in a while - worth every cent. Easily the top bread course I’ve ever had, and every dish after that was creative, delicious, and beautifully presented. The sea bass chowder in particular was divine. Fantastic service and beautiful views. Next time I probably won’t do the wine pairing again. Every wine they served was excellent, and there was more than enough of it, but the food was the standout to me - since the pairing is almost the same price as the food itself, it’s not something I think I’d do again.
Zac L — Google review
10/10 experience - we celebrated our honeymoon here and were treated with exceptional care and the food was TO DIE FOR! The fish head soup (you have to try!) was the best bite of food of my life thus far, and I told the chef as much. Cannot recommend LPC enough. MUST go!
Alexandra H — Google review
One of the best restaurants we’ve ever dined in. Each course was an unbelievable composition of flavours, showcasing culinary intelligence that beautifully blends African influences with global haute cuisine. You can literally taste the love, creativity, and harmony within the team in every bite. The interior is elegant and artistic, creating the perfect atmosphere for such an exceptional dining journey. Finally, the service is truly world-class – attentive, warm, and perfectly paced. Having visited many Michelin-star restaurants across Europe, we can confidently say that La Petite Colombe stands out as our number one worldwide – especially when it comes to value for money.
Stefan E — Google review
Amazing Location. Most of the courses were exceptional. Heavily seafood orientated but I don't mind that. Service as good as you expect. I think I actually preferred my experience here to my last experience at La Colombe constantia
Veshalin N — Google review
Beautiful restaurant and delightful presentation but their undercooked fatty lamb gave me indigestion and I threw up everything I had for lunch. So disappointed as this was meant to be the highlight of this trip to CT
S M — Google review
Wow, we always return to one of our favourite fine dining spots in the SA winelands, and once again, the multiple-course tasting menu did not disappoint (low-key out of this world). Each dish was expertly prepared, full of incredible flavors, and beautifully presented. The service was warm and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. The setting in the winelands is the perfect backdrop, turning the meal into the most unreal experience. Honestly, this place compares to, if not outshines, some of the 3 Michelin star restaurants I’ve been to in London. It’s definitely worth the visit, and we’ll always be back for sure!
Kyla E — Google review
Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek, South Africahttp://www.lapetitecolombe.com/+27 21 202 3395Tips and more reviews for La Petite Colombe
4.4
(866)
4.0
(962)
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Winery
Bakery
Restaurant
Haute Cabrière is a family-owned winery with a rich history dating back to 1694. The estate features a tasting room, restaurant, and terrace for visitors to enjoy. It's interesting to note that several top Western Cape restaurants, including Haute Cabriere itself, are not part of the Winelist Awards. Many of these restaurants are associated with wine estates that prioritize promoting their own wines.
One of my favourite fine dining restaurants in Franschoek. We had 3 courses during the summer edition of restaurant week and I must say that I was very impressed. The restaurant has amazing views of the Franschoek Wine Valley. We received a welcome glass of the sparkling rosé which was so good that we ordered another one. Each of the dishes from the starters to the desert was delicious. I'm coming back for their winter menu.
Wandile N — Google review
Stunning views of the valley below and the mountains behind the winery. The cheese and charcuterie platters in the tasting area are absolutely delicious. I can highly recommend the Haute Collection to taste delicious wine from old vines. I especially enjoyed the Amphora Semillon. The staff were all very knowledgeable and friendly. Haute Cabrière is definitely worth a visit and just a few minutes drive from the centre of Franschhoek.
Wianelle B — Google review
It was my first time at this wine estate and our waitress made it easy to understand. We chose our wines with macarons and Azi (waitress) was wonderful. Very professional and friendly. The wine was exquisite and we bought a bottle to leave with. Great service.
Ramona N — Google review
Treated ourselves to a visit during Restaurant week. 3 course meal on offer for R490. I had the Confit Trout starter, Springbok rump and Earl Grey Diplomat. The melt-in-your-mouth trout was exceptional. The medium rare Springbok Rump was beautiful and the vegetables that accompanied it were delicious. The diplomat was my first and pleasant enough. Highly recommend this restaurant which presides in a beautiful setting. Staff were really friendly and helpful. And the walk through the tasting room to the bathrooms took us back to our trip to Cappadocia last year.
Anita S — Google review
​During our visit to Haute Cabrière, we experienced exceptional service and outstanding cuisine. The dining area boasts a modern design; however, it felt overly warm and lacked a welcoming ambiance. While the food was delightful, the wines did not meet our expectations. Overall, a commendable dining experience.
Alex R — Google review
Warm welcome, friendly service, and food so delicious and well presented. The place is neat, tastefully decorated, with stunning mountain views and a great wine selection. A real Franschhoek highlight. Thank you for making our birthday celebration feel so special.
Malfan — Google review
The property is very modern. The waiters are extremely friendly and courteous. The wine and sparkling wine tasted great. I can only recommend the Pinot Noir. The opportunities to sit outside for the wine tasting are very limited. It is not possible to sit in front of the modern house building of beton. Instead, we sat in the wine cellar until requested. Which was not exactly attractive due to the beautiful weather outside.
Markus P — Google review
Terrible customer service, resulting in a below average experience. Booked for lunch yesterday, was told that they were fully booked and we needed to sit on the outside area. Arrived for lunch at 12h30 and the restaurant had 2 tables that were being used, the rest was empty. For the duration of our lunch, just over two hours, the majority of the tables were never utilized (no customers). We sat outside, behind walls and glass in a courtyard in-between the tasting room and the restaurant with very little view and in the hot sun. I did query a few times as to why they sat us there when the restaurant was empty. Kept on being told that customers were stuck in traffic and were late. Throughout the lunch there were a constant 12 tables without guests and three of them were not even set up, but were left in the courtyard???? The so called late customers never arrived. It wasn't our first experience at the venue, but it will be our last, as being treated differently to foreign tourists is a discrimination that no venue should have as a standard. No apologies were given and our departure from the restaurant was so irrelevant to the staff that it went unnoticed. With so much on offer, please choose wisely and rather find alternatives for your money. It is an expensive venue with very bad customer care.
Fernando P — Google review

3Protege

4.7
(523)
4.5
(357)
Mentioned on 
Restaurant
Protege, located in Franschhoek, is a top-notch casual fine dining restaurant led by renowned chef Scot Kirton. The restaurant serves as a platform for young chefs to hone their culinary skills. Situated at Le Quartier Francais, the central show kitchen offers an engaging dining experience with alfresco seating options.
The 8-course menu was a masterclass in culinary expertise, with each dish expertly crafted to delight the senses. The service was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who expertly guided us through the menu. Their passion for the food and wine was evident, and they added to the overall enjoyment of the afternoon. Each of the 8 courses was a work of art, with flavors, textures, and presentation all coming together in perfect harmony. The restaurant's ambiance was sophisticated and elegant, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that made us feel at ease. The décor was tasteful and refined, with impeccable attention to detail.
Ameen B — Google review
The 8 course meal was superb and also, the staff were amazing. Before going on with the food, our group had one person who was sick and the staff were so lovely and kind to the point where she was allowed to bring in her cup noodles and the staff even got boiling water for her to cook it. This type of service is hard to find in many greedy establishments nowadays. We ordered the reduced menu as we were all small eaters but although there were lesser dishes, all the food tasted amazing. I absolutely loved the Korean fried chicken and the crab claw with the starting finger foods. The chicken was lightly sweet and also a bit spicy. The pork belly as one of our mains was also really good and tender. The deliciousness however lied in the springbok as it was cooked medium rare with the gaminess and earthiness of the animal coming out in the flavours. Overall, this was a very solid dining experience!
Cheezo — Google review
A very big thank you to the staff and Chefs at Protege who made our 27th wedding anniversary dinner so special. I have celiac disease and a shellfish allergy, I contacted the restaurant beforehand to ask if they could accommodate my dietary requirements. I was assured they could. We had the spring menu and the food was so beautifully presented, little delicate works of art. Each ingredient carefully chosen and matched to perfection. The service was impeccable. We even had a box of chocolates with a happy anniversary note. So blown away and this is a dinner I won't forget in a long time. Ps...thst smoked mash and gluten-free bread..wow.
Bonnie — Google review
Great food, great staff, great atmosphere. Always love coming here. Unfortunately we were in a bit of a rush, the staff were excellent and made sure we still had the best experience and left on time.
Piotr R — Google review
Protégé is definitely an experience you want to try when visiting Franschhoek. The staff were so kind to me which made the evening even more special as I was celebrating my birthday. A real taste sensation when it came to the different elements of the dishes. My hat goes off to all the chefs in the kitchen who make sure that when your dish arrives you are blown away with the meticulous plating.
Makayla P — Google review
It's not often that everyone who has contributed to your meal gets a shout out on the menu - but they do at Protégé. It's about people learning to apply their skills, both in the kitchen and front of house. The quality and creativity of the fare is superb - from the most beautiful miniature tart (see the pic!) as a starter, to tasty mains and decadently delicious dessert. Even the cleansing towelettes are presented with a delightful touch of theatre, in a bowl festooned with pebbles and smoking dry ice!
Fiona M — Google review
Protégé is such a beautiful and elegant spot in Franschhoek, but with a more relaxed vibe than its sister restaurant in Constantia. The staff were great — friendly and really well trained — and you can feel the chef’s creativity in every dish. The vegetarian butter was the highlight for me, so beautifully done and full of flavour. Every dish looked amazing and tasted just as good. The Korean chicken before the main was a bit heavy for my liking, though the chicken itself was super fresh and tender. I had the wagyu for my main — it tasted a bit more like game, and the coffee sauce wasn’t quite my thing — but overall it was a really lovely dining experience. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Franschhoek.
T ( — Google review
One of my favorite dinning experiences in South Africa, the mix of flavor profiles in the dishes were so creative and delicious. The restaurant is gorgeous. We had lunch there after having dinner the night before at La Petite Colombe, their sister restaurant next door. It was one amazing experience after the other. This restaurant group is really at the top of their game. Hope to continue visiting more of their restaurants in the future. (Review from a couple of years ago, but thought it was worth sharing).
Daniela G — Google review
4.6
(270)
4.5
(481)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Restaurant
Le coin Francais Restaurant, located on Franschhoek's Main Road, is the brainchild of Chef Darren Badenhorst. The French-inspired menu offers a culinary journey through nostalgic food memories with a focus on flavors, textures, and interactive creations. The restaurant presents a six-course dinner tasting menu or an eight-course chef's journey with optional wine pairings. The ambiance features contemporary upmarket furniture in neutral tones and a stunning restored spiral staircase.
Le Coin Franscais had been on my list for a while. With their listing on restaurant week, it was a beckoning. The menu comprises an exceptional 7 course affair, with a extensively curated wine list. Service was attentive, and the courses were well paced over a duration of two hours. While each course was carefully designed, the top of the list for me was the langoustine. Highly recommended.
Shaun P — Google review
Le coin Francais is a culinary gem that absolutely deserves a Michelin star and its spot on the 50 Best Discoveries list. The food is incredible, with each dish showcasing exceptional flavors and beautiful presentation. The attentive, friendly, and polite staff elevate the experience even further. For an unforgettable dining experience is absolutely a must-visit. Cheers
Tania R — Google review
Delicious food with fantastic service. We did the 8 course menu and every dish was delicious. The one that stood out was definitely the Butter poached and BBQ north coast langoustine which is their signature dish.
Zhann S — Google review
Underwhelming and felt a bit like a rip off. The eight course menu is in essence a four course menu (they count amuse bouche, palate cleanser,… as a course which is unusual to say the least). Hence, wine pairing is also only four wines. The food is mediocre: the menu on the homepage did not match the menu in the restaurant, the menu in the restaurant was partially not available, the main course (steak) was cold and the rest mainly dull. Other than us two, there were only two more guests. The (acclaimed) chef was not in the kitchen, nor was the head chef. Might explain the lacking quality of the food but not the rest. Overall, cannot recommend.
D K — Google review
Excellent dinner to close off fine dining trip on Easter Sunday. Chef prepared a tasting menu with several Easter themed courses( homemade Hot Cross buns with raisin butter, pickled fish, dessert with speckled egg crumb, and more). Everything was top notch from the food to the service. Just missed the sunflower seed risotto which remains one of my favourite dishes ever.
Francois P — Google review
The dining experience was just fantastic! We selected the extended Chef’s choice menu which included two additional surprise courses. All courses were very tasty. My favorite dish was their signature dish - Butter poached and BBQ north coast langoustine. This dish is to die for! The wine pairing was spot on and with a professional sommelier! Thanks for the dining experience.
J M — Google review
We went for dinner at 6pm , were welcomed in and the menus explained. We chose the standard menu with wine and non-alcoholic pairings and cheese. Bread and special butters started us off. I kept some of mine for the sauces later. There followed an amuse bouche then the mini hand towels. The sommelier got us started with our first drinks and everything was explained as we went along, with various team members taking it in turn to do the serving. The langoustine dish is the signature dish and it is the best. We then had a load shedding event, but that didn't stop the food, just the coffee. The atmosphere improved in the darker restaurant. The non-alcoholic pairing was rather basic unfortunately but the food superb. The cheese course took us by surprise when we were given a large spoon. It was a cooked cheese dish and delightful too. Thoroughly enjoyed the evening.
Joseph K — Google review
Fantastic meal at Le Coin. Delicious food, excellent wine and a lovely atmosphere. The lamb and langustiine dishes were special. A special shout out to our Waiter Tyrone who was attentive, knowledgable and full of good humour. As Jermaine Jenas would say “ Coin coin coin”
Katrina K — Google review
4.4
(639)
4.5
(622)
Mentioned on 
Winery
Guest house
Restaurant
Le Lude Estate and Orangerie Restaurant is a charming dining spot located on the picturesque Le Lude estate. The restaurant boasts French-inspired interiors that exude sophistication, creating a serene ambiance for patrons to savor creative cuisine. Chef Nicolene Barrow, with her classical French training from Michelin-starred Le Gavroche in London, puts a contemporary twist on dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients.
A must for anyone wanting a memorable dining experience in Franschhoek! We were so thrilled when Cameron got us a table last minute, he is an absolute gem! Everything exceeded all expectations and the service was top-notch!! We got the pork belly & fillet steak and would highly recommend (we also tried the seafood starter and wow !!). The venue is so romantic and dreamy and we can’t WAIT to come back! Edmund was such a gracious host and our waiter couldn’t have done more for us! Thank you!! It simply doesn’t get better than this! ❤️
Nicole — Google review
We had the afternoon tea experience on a Saturday morning. The venue itself is lovely and bright. There is also outdoor seating, so if weather permits, I recommend sitting in the little courtyard. The treats themselves were alright. We were pleasantly surprised by the passion fruit macaron because we normally don't enjoy them, but this one was delicious. The roast beef sandwich was also quite nice. Otherwise nothing else was memorable. I've had many afternoon/high tea experiences in Cape Town and the surrounds and, while this one was nice, it's not as great as everyone was raving about.
Victoria S — Google review
5 stars for the great atmosphere & great customer service. The manager was great came to chat with us … explained a few things on their menu. 2nd time here (Visiting from Kenya) & we know to dine here again when in Franschhoek. Highly recommend
Chero T — Google review
We had the brut tasting at Le Lude, all of them were great and my favourite was the Madame millésime 2015. Definitely recommend this for great cap classique tastings
Sara F — Google review
Dear Le Lude Management, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally express my disappointment following my recent visit to Le Lude. As a loyal customer who regularly purchases the Le Lude Brut, I decided today to explore your other tasting options and enjoy the full experience your estate offers. My family accompanied me, and we ordered a tasting, an affogato, and a cappuccino. During our visit, my baby required a nappy change. Our waiter was exceptionally kind and helpful — she personally guided me through the restaurant to the outside restroom facilities. After changing my baby, I returned the same way to my table, only to be stopped by a manager who told me I was “not allowed to just walk in and walk [my] baby through the restaurant.” I was taken aback by this comment and even asked him to repeat himself, as it made little sense given that I had just followed the same route moments earlier with the assistance of your staff. I found his tone and attitude unnecessarily rude and dismissive, particularly towards a mother managing an infant. This interaction completely overshadowed what had been, up until that point, a pleasant experience. While I have always enjoyed your Le Lude Brut and appreciated the quality of your wines, such unprofessional behaviour from management has left a very negative impression. It is truly disappointing to be treated in this manner, especially at a venue of Le Lude’s standing. I sincerely hope you will address this matter appropriately. Although one customer’s experience may seem insignificant, I believe every guest deserves to be treated with respect and courtesy. I would like to commend the waiter who assisted me — her professionalism stood in stark contrast to the manager’s conduct.
Angelique S — Google review
It's often hard to strike a balance between good food, attentive service, lovely surroundings and price. I felt L'Orangerie did this well. The Cap Classique Rose was lovely and well priced, the service was attentive without being overly fussy and they encourage eating with your hands. Food wise I thought it was good value. The bouibaisse was excellent and whilst little tweaks could have been made to the mains they were both tasty and I left full without looking at the desert menu. This place does not pretend to be fine dining, nor does it charge like one so well worth a visit.
Roger W — Google review
Based on my experience, I do not recommend visiting this restaurant. I had originally booked a table for 2:30 PM, but the restaurant moved my reservation to 2:00 PM. I accepted the change, believing I would still make it. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I was running a little late. I phoned the restaurant about 7 minutes after 2 PM, which I understood to still be within their grace period. I had also paid a deposit to secure my booking, which made the situation even more disappointing. The manager later pointed out that reminders had been sent and that I had the option to cancel within 24 hours. While I understand policies are in place, the reality is that none of us can fully predict how a day might unfold. What mattered most to me was how the situation was handled when I tried to communicate. When I called, I personally found the manager’s tone and attitude extremely unhelpful. In my experience, he spoke over me rather than listening, which left me feeling dismissed and unwelcome. What disappointed me most was that my original booking was 2:30 PM, and I thought there might be some flexibility or consideration, especially since members of my group were already there at 3:00 PM, I would have appreciated it if we had been offered an alternative, like being seated for dinner or waiting for a table. Overall, this was one of the most unpleasant restaurant experiences I have had, and for that reason, I personally cannot recommend it..
Lelona N — Google review
Our second stop on the wine tram. It’s such a beautiful place and I got to go up close to the grape vines. We visited their tasting room which was beautiful. We got a bottle of their Brut Rosé to share. It was a delight to drink. They also have a restaurant if you want to have lunch here. It’s such a lovely place to visit!
Hazel F — Google review
Bowling Green Avenue, Lambrechts Rd, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africahttps://lelude.co.za/+27 21 876 2961Tips and more reviews for Le Lude Estate and Orangerie Restaurant

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