An evolving canvas of food and decor, Makaron at Majeka House in Stellenbosch evokes trendy worldliness – like stepping into a glossy magazine.

The restaurant

Forming part of the five-star Stellenbosch boutique hotel Majeka House since 2008, Makaron brings high-end South African décor and food together with the authentic, hands-on hospitality of owners and managers Karine Dequeker and Lloyd van der Merwe.

Makaron’s interior. Photograph supplied by the restaurant

The food

Chef Tanja Kruger’s food is proudly South African with international flourishes, and her menus are evolving personal expressions of creativity, often informed by inspirational sabbaticals. There is a fun lunch menu, as well as tasting and à la carte dinner menus. The newest innovation is a table for two situated right inside the kitchen, theatre-style.

The style

That the décor evokes the sense of stepping into a glossy magazine is hardly surprising considering it is the work of designer Etienne Hanekom, one-time art director of VISI. Making use of custom-designed copper-top tables by James Mudge, hand-turned wooden lights by Porky Hefer, and contemporary classic Louis Ghost chairs forming the foundation, Etienne is constantly adding and changing details to keep the aesthetics at the vanguard of style.

Makaron’s terrace. Photograph supplied by the restaurant

Does Makaron have what it takes to win the 2014 Boschendal Style Award? The winner will be announced at the Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards on Sunday 16 November. (Buy your tickets now.) See the other nominees here.