10 Restaurants in Franschhoek to visit for Bastille Day Celebrations

As Franschhoek gears up for the annual Bastille Day celebrations on 13 & 14 July 2024, the town's vibrant culinary scene is ready to dazzle visitors with gourmet delights. Without further ado, here are ten top-rated restaurants you must visit during the Bastille Day festivities and some of our favourite standout menu options.

Introducing Franschoek's Leeu Collection

The Leeu Collection, founded by Analjit Singh, offers high-end accommodations in South Africa's Winelands. The portfolio includes three properties: Leeu Estates, a 24-room country house and winery in the Franschhoek valley; Leeu House, a 12-room hotel in Franschhoek village; and Le Quartier Français, a romantic 25-room hotel also in the town as well as an incredible collection of restaurants.

The Leeu Collection offers exceptional dining experiences, featuring fine cuisine crafted from the freshest local ingredients.

1. Conservatory

  Image Source: leeucollection.com

Hidden within the tranquil grounds of Leeu Estates, the Conservatory offers a serene dining experience with panoramic views of the gardens and vineyards. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, elegantly presented in a refined setting.

- Location: Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
- Menu Highlights:
   - Seared Tuna with avocado, sesame, and soy
   - Roast Lamb with mint, peas, and new potatoes
   - Chocolate Fondant with salted caramel and vanilla ice cream

Visit their Website: Conservatory

2. Épice

  Image source: drizzleanddip.com

Épice, meaning 'spice' in French, offers a unique culinary journey inspired by the flavours of India and the East. The restaurant's intimate setting and innovative menu make it a standout dining destination in Franschhoek.

- Location: Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
- Menu Highlights:
   - Spiced Duck Breast with lentils, carrot, and tamarind
   - Tandoori Monkfish with cauliflower, spinach, and yoghurt
   - Cardamom Crème Brûlée with pistachio and rose

Visit their Website: Épice

3. La Petite Colombe

  Image Source: lapeitittecolombe.restaurante

An offshoot of the famous La Colombe in Cape Town, La Petite Colombe promises an exceptional dining experience with innovative tasting menus. Expect beautifully presented dishes that highlight local flavours and culinary artistry.

- Location: Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek

- Menu Highlights:
   - Langoustine with ginger, lime, and avocado
   - Aged Beef with truffle, mushroom, and potato
   - Passion Fruit Soufflé with white chocolate and coconut

Visit their Website: La Petite Colombe

4. Reuben's
  

Image Source: wineanorak.com

Owned by celebrity chef Reuben Riffel, Reuben's offers a relaxed yet sophisticated dining atmosphere. The menu celebrates South African flavours with a modern twist, featuring dishes like lamb shank and seafood curry.

- Location: 2 Daniel Hugo Street, Franschhoek

- Menu Highlights:
   - West Coast Mussels with white wine, garlic, and cream
   - Lamb Shank with garlic mash and green beans
   - Malva Pudding with crème anglaise and vanilla ice cream

Visit their Website: Reuben's

5. The French Connection Bistro

  Image Source: dineplan.com

A cosy bistro with a charming ambience, The French Connection serves classic French cuisine. From escargot to duck à l'orange, the menu offers a delightful taste of France in the heart of Franschhoek.

- Location: 48 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek

- Menu Highlights:
   - Escargot in garlic butter
   - Duck à l'Orange with potato dauphinoise
   - Crème Brûlée with vanilla bean

Visit their Website: The French Connection Bistro

6. Grande Provence

  Image Source: booking.com

Set on a historic estate, the Restaurant at Grande Provence offers a luxurious dining experience. The seasonal menu is complemented by an extensive wine list, making it a perfect spot for an indulgent meal.

- Location: Main Road, Franschhoek

- Menu Highlights:
   - Seared Scallops with cauliflower purée and pancetta
   - Beef Fillet with bone marrow and red wine jus
   - Lemon Tart with meringue and raspberry sorbet

Visit their Website: Grande Provence

7. La Petite Ferme

  Image Source: rovesa.co.za

With breathtaking views of the valley, La Petite Ferme is a must-visit for both its cuisine and its setting. The menu focuses on contemporary South African dishes, using fresh, local ingredients to create memorable meals.

- Location: Pass Road, Franschhoek

- Menu Highlights:
   - Springbok Carpaccio with Parmesan and rocket
   - Line Fish with mussel velouté and fennel
   - Amarula Crème Brûlée with biscotti

Visit their Website: La Petite Ferme

8. Terroir

  Image Source: thirstytraveller.co.za

On the Kleine Zalze estate, Terroir is famed for its simple yet sophisticated approach to food. The menu changes seasonally and pairs beautifully with the estate's award-winning wines, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

- Location: Kleine Zalze Estate, Strand Road, Stellenbosch (a short drive from Franschhoek)

- Menu Highlights:
   - Saldanha Bay Oysters with lemon and mignonette
   - Pork Belly with apple, sage, and mustard
   - Lemon Posset with shortbread

Visit their Website: Terroir

9. Le Bon Vivant

  Image Source: bonvivant.co.za

Chef Pierre Hendriks serves up creative and contemporary dishes at Le Bon Vivant. The à la carte and tasting menus are crafted to surprise and delight, emphasising bold flavours and elegant presentation.

- Location: 22 Dirkie Uys Street, Franschhoek

- Menu Highlights:
   - Foie Gras with brioche and apple compote
   - Venison Loin with beetroot and blackberry
   - Valrhona Chocolate Mousse with caramel and hazelnut

Visit their Website: Le Bon Vivant

10. Orangerie @ Le Lude
  

Image source: francshhoek.org.za

The Orangerie Restaurant at Le Lude offers a refined dining experience focusing on contemporary French cuisine. Its elegant setting and carefully crafted menu make it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable meal.

- Location: Le Lude Estate, Bowwood Road, Franschhoek
- Menu Highlights:
   - Duck Liver Parfait with brioche and apple chutney
   - Kingklip with saffron, fennel, and mussels
   - Lemon Meringue Tart with raspberry sorbet

Visit their Website: The Orangerie Restaurant

If you don't secure reservations at your preferred restaurants, you can still indulge in Franschhoek's culinary delights. Consider La Motte's artisanal bakery or Boschendal, or explore other casual and accessible dining options throughout the area. However it works out, enjoy Bastille Day with a gourmet adventure that showcases the best of this charming town's offerings.

Bon appétit!

Read our previous article here

Contact one of our offices below; we look forward to hearing from you:
Gauteng: 011 463 0155
Cape Town: 021 418 0328 
Garden Route: 044 050 3295
Eastern Cape: 076 927 7787
Winelands: 021 863 0551
Mauritius: +230 5723 0369
Email: reception@hamiltons.co.za

Hamilton's Property Portfolio holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA).