The Restaurant at Grande Provence

Food:

Fans of Masterchef should make this a must on their to-do list. It's an intellectual foodie’s gourmet dream. Superb skill is on display – not just on the menu, but on each beautiful plate. The lasagne of rabbit and langoustine is a work of art, topped with a perfectly charred strip of Parma ham to provide a crisp, salty counterpoint to the subtle flavour of the dish. Adding a sweet touch is confit of red onion and sweet potato and apple puree. This classicism is contrasted by the flavour bomb of masala-marinated quail – perfectly cooked – served with a spicy dhal, lime pickle, beetroot raita and cumin paneer. There are no prices indicated on the menu: you pay for the number of courses.

Wine:

Well populated by Grande Provence wines. The strongest recommendation is that these wines are superbly paired with the food. The Viognier and masala quail dance a perfect two-step.

Service:

Unobtrusive and happy to leave you alone but will dance to attention should you require it. Very accommodating and well trained.

Ambience:

A contrast between gunmetal blue-grey and white really works when paired with slate flooring and other white counterpoints. High-backed leather chairs are elegant but the vibe is simultaneously relaxed.

And...:

Keep an eye on the press for periodic seasonal specials for large tables and good value Sunday lunches. (FM, October 2011)

Jakub Bielikowski
24-Jan-2012

We got there for late lunch, still being able to order at 15:00. Sat outside and it has cleared up on the end, which certainly enhanced our experience. I opted for two starters - risotto with shrimp and quail with various curried additions. Both were excellent, though I would prefer if they simply leave salt on the table so I can add that to taste. My partner's kingklip with nice additions (like spicy fish ravioli) was just brilliant. Only the service was somehow aloof and I waited for my wine glass forever. Otherwise 100% perfection.

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Amanda Dhalluin
10-Oct-2011

Absolutely fabulous. The food was fantastic with Darren creating a one-off starter dish for my husband; service and ambience superb. Did not get to see wine list as we were guests but what was chosen was great. Will be back.

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Ingrid Hindle
2-Oct-2011

The Restaurant at Grande Provence undoubtedly serves the best food we have had in South Africa ever. Must have been there at least 10 times in the past year, and have always had superb food. Expensive, but worth every single cent. Very highly recommended

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Mandy Pond
12-Sep-2011

My mother, aged 76, hosted a lunch at Grande Provence last Saturday. We were lucky enough to enjoy the private dining room which was an experience that none of us will forget.

There are times when you go out to eat and there are times when you eat out. We ate out, and none of us will ever forget the experience. There are also times when you have an experience that you cannot quantify, simply because it has been so good and so memorable. The Restaurant at Grande Provence, with Darren Roberts at the helm - well, you are in the presence of a master. He conducts himself with superlative grace - his touch is not trivial, nor contrived.

Without a doubt, this was the most outstanding experience I have had in many years - do yourself a favour and put it on your bucket list.

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