Best French Restaurants in South Africa

La Colombe Restaurant is one of Cape Town's most well-loved and awarded restaurants. Serving Contemporary French and European cuisines.

The Test Kitchen Origins is the culmination of the efforts put into re-imagine and acknowledge the dining experience that today’s restaurant guests is wanting. A paired down yet undoubtedly luxurious fine-dining experience, returning to the origins of delicious food. Reduced courses yet the whole Test Kitchen experience, less elaborate yet as luxurious as ever, shorter yet more impactful. The dishes will consist of seasonal produce, focusing on using small purveyors and suppliers who have enhanced The Test Kitchen experience since the beginning. Traditional English and French techniques will highlight each dish and allow patrons to savour the inherent qualities of each…

Contemporary fine dining in Franschhoek, now situated at the beautiful Leeu Estates—the 6th Best Restaurant in South Africa serving scrumptious French and European cuisines.

Classic dishes with a South African twist. In an industrial 1920's "members-only club" inspired space where everyone is welcome

La Mouette – French for “Seagull”, of which there are many in Sea Point – is a French-inspired modern European restaurant that offers regular seasonal menus. We pride ourselves on showcasing only the best local producers and take great care in sourcing these ingredients. Patrons at La Mouette can also further enhance the carefully curated menus with a meticulous selection of complimentary wines, expertly selected by our in-house wine list consultant. La Mouette restaurant is housed in an original feature Tudor house, once the home of the local Mayor. It has two floors, four dining rooms, six fireplaces, a bar/lounge area, and a cobblestone courtyard outside.

“Le Coin Français” embodies the essence of the Franschhoek Valley by reflecting the heritage, elegant French cuisine, and European cuisine. Multiple award-winning Chef de cuisine and owner Darren Badenhorst (previously executive chef of The Restaurant at Grande Provence) will take diners through his interpretations of nostalgic food memories.

In the lap of casual luxury, Mont Marie offers amazing food, wine, and family experience in a spectacular country setting in the heart of the Blaauwklippen Valley. Using only the freshest ingredients, Chef Pieter Vlok adds authentic flavours to a variety of mouth-watering dishes full of South African personality.

Delaire restaurant is situated at the winery and overlooks the Franschhoek Valley. It offers approachable fine food with fresh and vibrant flavours. Guests can dine on the terrace under a canopy of pin oak trees or within the spectacular interiors designed by the interior architect and decorator David Collins, whilst enjoying the breathtaking views Delaire allows of the Stellenbosch Valley and Mountains. The signature dishes include Pickled Beetroot Carpaccio with goat's cheese fritters, Crayfish Lasagne with king oyster mushrooms, and Pistachio Nougat served with rose geranium ice cream.

Monceaux Restaurant is located In the heart of Franschhoek, the acclaimed Monneaux Restaurant offers freshness, creativity, and generosity with its French, International and European cuisines without compromising on technique or elegance. Headed by visionary young chef Calvin Metior as of November 2019, this stalwart of the Cape Winelands' dining scene has reconceptualised its dining offering from pass to plate. The focus is on showcasing Monneaux's true identity through seasonality, responsibly-sourced local produce and self-sustainability Set on the original site of Franschhoek's first parfumerie, adjacent to the luxurious Franschhoek Country House & Villas.

R oca Restaurant At Dieu Donne Vineyards is a hidden gem located at the Roca on Dieu Donne translated as Rock on God-Given Land. This becomes apparent on first observing the iconic views of the Franschhoek Valley from the upper deck of the double-volume Roca Restaurant, Serving scrumptious African, French, European and International cuisines.

Along with formal training in Europe, Chef Nicolene Barrow worked at the world-famous Le Gavroche Restaurant in London before setting up Orangerie at Le Lude. Here classical French cuisine is presented with a contemporary twist; the purist, disciplined approach of the European masters combined with a hint of individual, modern creativity where what is on the plate is presented as looking as good as it tastes. A seasonal menu offers the finest, freshest ingredients picked from the herb garden found in the forests, meadows, mountains, and seas of the Cape, resulting in a selection of dishes offered in an environment conducive to making permanent Franschhoek memories.

Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate wears its 325-year history with style. Nestled within the Franschhoek Valley in the Western Cape, surrounded by 47 acres of lush vines, this is a heartland South African wine country at its finest. A sophisticated destination in its own right, Grande Provence proudly presents superb cuisine at The Restaurant serving delicious French and European cuisines.

French Connection Bistro, nestled in the heart of Franschhoek, South Africa, is a quaint and charming establishment renowned for its commitment to the fine art of French cuisine, seamlessly blended with South African influences. Located in a region famed for its spectacular wineries and picturesque scenery, this restaurant offers a culinary experience that captures the essence of its idyllic setting. The ambience of French Connection Bistro is inviting and rustic, with a touch of elegance that reflects the culinary sophistication of its menu. The decor features classic French bistro elements, such as intimate seating, warm lighting, and vintage French posters, all contributing to a cosy atmosphere that encourages diners to relax and enjoy their meal. An outdoor patio offers views of the stunning Franschhoek mountains and lush vineyards, providing a perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. The menu at French Connection celebrates the fusion between French culinary techniques and the rich, diverse flavours of South African ingredients. It features a selection of innovative and comforting dishes, from freshly baked baguettes and rich, creamy pastas to expertly prepared meats and locally sourced seafood. Signature dishes may include boeuf bourguignon, duck confit, and a variety of fresh salads that highlight the region's seasonal produce.

La Paris Bistro, nestled in the scenic wine region of Franschhoek, South Africa, is a delightful escape that blends the rustic charm of the South African countryside with the sophisticated flair of French bistro culture. This elegant eatery is located on the beautiful La Paris Estate, surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque gardens, creating a tranquil dining ambience. The decor at La Paris Bistro is a tasteful mix of old-world elegance and contemporary design, featuring high ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and elegant chandeliers that complement the natural beauty of its setting. The brestaurant' expansive windows offer stunning views of the estate's gardens, filling the space with natural light and enhancing the overall dining experience. La Paris Bistro's menu icelebratesFrench culinary traditions, infused with local flavours and ingredients. The kitchen team, led by skilled chefs, crafts dishes that are both authentic and innovative, using the freshest produce sourced from the estate's gardens and nearby farms. Signature offerings include freshly baked pastries, hearty breakfasts, and classic French dishes such as Coq au Vin, Bouillabaisse, and Ratatouille, each prepared with meticulous attention and presented beautifully.