Annexe Bistro, the anticipated sister venue to the beloved Mr Pants Wine Bar, is preparing to open in Blairgowrie this January with an uncomplicated philosophy: good food, done well, without the fuss.

“As an extension of Mr Pants, or rather a new venue associated with it, the term Annexe was appropriate,” explains Shayne Holt, owner and restaurateur behind the venture. “Annexe is just the French translation” – a nod to the bistro’s inspiration that will define its culinary identity.

Chef Freddie Dias, with stints at The Marabi Club, Sejour, and the Eat Out award-winning Potluck Club in Cape Town under his belt, is at the helm of Annexe’s kitchen. He brings a wealth of experience to the new intimate 30-seat venue, and it’s this extensive background that has him excited about stripping things back.

“Coming off years of fine dining, he’s keen to get back to where it all started,” says Shayne. “Good food, good eating, simpler times. He’s got a helluva lot of global experience, but his heart is in the Mediterranean”  – a passion that will undoubtedly influence Annexe’s seasonal menu.

The philosophy is elegantly straightforward: let the ingredients do the talking. With approximately six starters, seven to eight mains, and a selection of desserts, the offerings will be “dictated by what looks good, what’s seasonal and what’s available”. Don’t be surprised to discover Portuguese influences weaving through the menu – a reflection of Freddie’s heritage. Two standout dishes already generating excitement are the whole roast fish head with chorizo sauce and a terrine of rabbit, duck, and sweetbreads. “So rich but such good eating!” Shayne says.

Located within Delta Central, Annexe’s interior embraces a deliberately pared-back aesthetic. Shayne says that the space is stripped back and industrial, creating an atmosphere that’s simultaneously dark and moody yet warm and cosy. The bar serves as the restaurant’s focal point, offering 10 seats alongside 20 table spots and a few outdoor tables for fair-weather dining.

Annexe will begin its service with a focused schedule: Wednesday–Saturday for dinner from 6–10pm, with Friday and Saturday lunches running from 12–3pm.  Reservations can be made by calling 0790755857. Given the intimate size of the space, securing a spot is going to be key.

Annexe Bistro is located at Delta Central, corner of Conrad Drive and Hillcrest Avenue, Blairgowrie.