Visiting Eat Out-starred Madré Stanford, in the heart of the picturesque village located between Hermanus and Gansbaai, is like going to the home of family or friends. The restaurant is housed in a heritage cottage with rustically furnished interleading rooms; a vine-shaded stoep out back and a vegetable garden beyond the lawn add to the homely, intimate feel. It’s more than that, though, says owner Madré Smit Bester. It’s about their lifestyle – she, her husband Morné Bester, their daughter, and even their dog Georgie, ball in mouth, will most likely all be there. It’s casual, relaxed and highly personal.

An unexpected star

Madré didn’t see that star coming. “It was completely unexpected. I didn’t even know we were in the running, and I never thought we were in that league,” she says. “It caught me slightly off-guard – but I’m grateful. I see it as a huge blessing, and an acknowledgement of being in the industry for such a long time. It’s hard work, with a stress factor many people know little about.” Sharing this lifestyle, deeply rooted in her childhood and built on a foundation of seasonal produce from the immediate vicinity – including her own garden – is everything to Madré. “To me, there is something beautiful about sharing food, and the communion with food on the table,” she says.

To read the full story, grab your copy of the 2024 Eat Out magazine – on shelf at your nearest Woolies for R115!

Images and cover image: Jan Ras