A Taste of Franschhoek Under Open Skies
Nestled in the picturesque Cape Winelands, Franschhoek offers a culinary haven for food lovers, with an abundance of restaurants that provide stunning alfresco dining experiences in the summer months. Whether you’re seeking vineyard views, tranquil gardens, or mountain backdrops, these exceptional spots make every meal unforgettable. Here’s a guide to some of the best alfresco dining destinations in and around Franschhoek.
1. Allée Bleue
Known for its sprawling lawns and scenic views, Allée Bleue offers a family-friendly setting for outdoor dining. Their menu celebrates fresh, local ingredients, perfectly paired with their estate wines.
2. Anura
Experience hearty farm-to-table cuisine at Anura’s alfresco dining area. Their deck overlooks a serene pond and the surrounding vineyards, making it a peaceful retreat.
3. Atlas Swift
A modern addition to Franschhoek’s dining scene, Atlas Swift’s outdoor seating combines contemporary design with lush greenery, offering a chic space to enjoy seasonal dishes.
4. Babylonstoren
Few places rival the charm of Babylonstoren. Dine outdoors in their celebrated garden setting, where dishes are crafted with ingredients picked straight from their organic gardens.
5. Baccõ
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Baccõ’s alfresco patio offers a rustic yet elegant ambiance, perfect for savouring wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas.
6. Bartinney
Set high on the slopes of the Botmaskop mountains, Bartinney’s terrace offers panoramic views that complement their selection of boutique wines.
7. Boschendal
A pioneer of farm-to-fork dining, Boschendal’s outdoor tables invite you to relax under ancient oak trees while enjoying wholesome dishes made from farm-fresh produce.
8. Camberley
Camberley’s charming outdoor seating area provides an intimate space for enjoying their wine and light bites amidst the vineyards.
9. Chamonix
Chamonix combines a rustic mountain setting with gourmet cuisine, offering outdoor dining with breathtaking views of the valley.
10. Dieu Donné
Perched high above Franschhoek, Dieu Donné offers outdoor seating with spectacular vistas and a menu designed to pair perfectly with their wines.
11. Eikehof
A hidden gem, Eikehof’s shaded outdoor seating area invites guests to unwind while savouring their small-batch wines and farm-style platters.
12. Franschhoek Cellar
The Franschhoek Cellar blends contemporary design with classic charm. Their outdoor seating is ideal for family gatherings and casual lunches.
13. Grande Provence
Grande Provence offers alfresco dining amidst art sculptures and manicured gardens. Their seasonal menu reflects the essence of South African cuisine.
14. Haute Cabrière
Haute Cabrière’s terrace is a must-visit for its breathtaking mountain views and elegant dishes inspired by French cuisine.
15. Holden Manz
Enjoy riverfront dining at Holden Manz, where the outdoor spaces provide a tranquil escape paired with their exquisite wines and farm-fresh dishes.
16. Klein Goederust
This boutique winery offers a cozy alfresco dining area where guests can indulge in hearty South African fare alongside their wines.
17. La Bri
La Bri’s picnic-style alfresco offerings provide a relaxed way to enjoy their wine portfolio in a scenic vineyard setting.
18. Le Pommier
Le Pommier offers casual alfresco dining with hearty dishes and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and groups.
19. Leopard’s Leap
This modern winery features outdoor tables with stunning views of the Franschhoek Valley, where you can enjoy their signature Rotisserie menu.
20. Lynx
Lynx offers a laid-back outdoor experience with friendly service and a menu that highlights local flavours.
21. Maison
Maison’s minimalist design blends beautifully with its outdoor dining area, where guests can enjoy seasonal dishes crafted with care.
22. Mont Rochelle
Richard Branson’s Mont Rochelle boasts alfresco dining with sweeping views and a menu that fuses global influences with local ingredients.
23. Noble Hill
Dine on Noble Hill’s terrace to enjoy farm-fresh dishes paired with their estate wines, surrounded by tranquil gardens.
24. Paserene
Paserene’s intimate outdoor setting offers a contemporary take on alfresco dining, with beautifully plated dishes and boutique wines.
25. Plaisir
Plaisir’s outdoor area exudes rustic charm, making it a favorite for relaxed meals under the trees.
26. Rickety Bridge
Rickety Bridge combines vineyard views with an inviting outdoor dining area, offering a relaxed yet refined culinary experience.
27. Vrede en Lust
Vrede en Lust’s alfresco dining area provides a serene setting to enjoy their award-winning wines and hearty meals.
28. Zorgvliet
Zorgvliet’s picnic area is perfect for a family day out, offering pre-packed baskets to enjoy amidst the lush scenery.
From refined garden settings to rustic vineyard views, Franschhoek’s alfresco dining scene caters to every taste and occasion. Which of these will you visit next?
Plan Your Alfresco Adventure!