The post-COVID dining scene in Stellenbosch shows no sign of slowing down but instead continues to gather momentum.  Fresh off their wins at the 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, where MERTIA claimed both the Service Excellence Award and two coveted Eat Out stars, co-owners Marais Kirsten-Uys and Matt van den Berg are preparing to cast a wider net with a second venture this summer.

TERRA – a nod to the earth – will soon open on iconic Dorp Street, offering a different but equally thoughtful dining experience. It’s the kind of evolution we love to see from award-winning teams: building on success while staying true to their vision and identity.

“We are showcasing the taste, love and experience of MERTIA on a different level,” Marais tells Eat Out. “One that is more of a daily approach. Where guests can enjoy something from the MERTIA family, any day of the week and more often.”

 

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Heading up the kitchen will be chef Jarryd Morris, who’s held positions at other Eat Out star establishments, like Restaurant Klein JAN and Chefs Warehouse at Tinstwalo Atlantic. His cooking philosophy is anchored in reverence for ingredients and storytelling through food. He believes that each dish should honour its ingredients in their purest form, while still surprising the guest with unexpected techniques or flavour pairings. Seasonality is central to his approach, ensuring that every plate captures the essence of the season.

“For Jarryd, food is not just about nourishment, but about creating a memorable moment that connects people and leaves them with a lasting sense of discovery,” says Marais, clearly proud of their new head chef’s vision.

Chefs Jarryd Morris and Matt van den Berg

TERRA’s menu will embrace the spirit of sharing – expect small snacks at the bar to go alongside a glass of local wine, as well as larger family-style plates cooked over open flames. From a decor and design perspective, Marais says guests can look forward to a vintage, industrial-style bistro look and feel with raw authenticity, modern sophistication “and a lot of soul”.

TERRA will be open Monday to Sunday, 7am to 9pm, and Sunday from 7am to 2pm. Bookings will soon open online.

 

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