The South African Braai Experience at Leeu Collection | Chef-Led Braais & Luxury Picnics in Franschhoek
The Art of the South African Braai: Fire, Flavour & Franschhoek Festivities
There are few traditions as deeply rooted in South African culture as the ‘braai’. More than a barbecue, a braai is a ritual that blends fire, food, family, and the storytelling that defines the country’s warm hospitality. It begins long before anything touches the grill. The moment the wood is lit, the gathering begins—laughter, conversation, and the unmistakable scent of smoke rising into the warm air. It is during this time, while everyone waits for the wood to become perfect coals, that memories are made and the celebration of togetherness truly begins.
At Leeu Collection, this beloved South African tradition is reimagined as a refined, chef-led experience. Guests at Leeu Estates and Leeu House can enjoy a private braai prepared by The Dining Room team, available at select function venues and cottages on Leeu Estates, as well as at Leeu House on an exclusive-use basis. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Franschhoek mountains, the braai becomes more than a meal — an immersive expression of place, flavour, and connection.
A Chef’s Interpretation of a South African Classic
A traditional braai always begins with what South Africans fondly call “the waiting snacks” - a selection of savoury bites enjoyed while the fire comes to life. At Leeu Collection, guests are welcomed with authentic tastes of South Africa, starting with biltong, the country’s iconic air-cured meat that delivers deep, savoury flavour in every slice. Droëwors, a spiced dried sausage with its characteristic coriander notes, offers another nostalgic favourite. Small bites of ‘boerewors’ served with a spicy tomato relish provide a rich and hearty introduction to one of South Africa’s most celebrated sausages. No braai would be complete without ‘braai broodjies’, the fire-toasted sandwiches filled with tomato, red onion, and Emmentaler cheese that every South African recognises with fondness.
Once the fire has settled into a bed of glowing coals, it is time for the main event. Guests can enjoy apricot chutney chicken ‘sosaties’ - a cherished South African dish of marinated chicken skewered and grilled over the flames. For those who enjoy robust, smoky flavours, a perfectly grilled beef steak is served with a garlic and olive-oil butter crafted on the estate. Rosemary lamb loin chops offer tender, aromatic meat that pairs beautifully with the natural smokiness of the braai. Sweetcorn on the cob, brushed with garlic and herb butter, provides a fresh and comforting side that completes the experience.
To balance the richness of the grilled dishes, guests are served a refreshing estate green salad dressed with a delicate herb vinaigrette. A traditional potato salad adds a familiar and indulgent element that no South African gathering would be without. Pescetarian and vegetarian guests are also thoughtfully catered for, with a main course that typically includes the fish of the day or hearty brown mushroom steaks finished with rosemary oil.
Dessert brings another layer of nostalgia and indulgence. A playful ‘Springbokkie’ shooter made from crème de menthe and Amarula pays homage to a South African party favourite. Fresh seasonal fruit skewers add a light, refreshing note, followed by a rich and comforting brandy pudding - also known affectionately as tipsy tart, made the traditional way with generous (and unmeasured) amounts of brandy. To finish, guests enjoy ‘koeksisters’, the much-loved plaited doughnuts soaked in cold syrup, offering the perfect sweet ending to a memorable meal.
Al Fresco Living: The Joy of Summertime Picnics
South African summers are synonymous with outdoor dining, and picnics form an equally cherished expression of the season’s pleasures. For guests staying at Leeu Estates, Leeu House, or Le Quartier Français, The Dining Room team also offers beautifully curated private picnics set in some of Leeu Estates’ most scenic locations - from quiet vineyard spaces to sun-dappled lawns and serene riverside corners.
The picnic baskets are filled with handcrafted seasonal dishes that celebrate both local ingredients and the produce grown on the estate.
A Peek Inside the Chef-Prepared Picnic Baskets
The traditional Leeu Collection picnic menu begins with a generous selection of local cheeses and charcuterie, paired with home-made estate preserves that showcase seasonal flavours. Freshly baked breads and crisp home-made crackers accompany this opening spread. Guests can enjoy tender BBQ chicken kebabs and flavourful meatballs served with a spicy tomato dipping sauce. Seasonal fruit skewers add natural sweetness to the meal, while a Caprese pasta salad - made with basil pesto, heirloom tomatoes, and mozzarella - offers a refreshing summer dish. The seasonal estate salad, dressed with honey and wholegrain mustard vinaigrette, features ingredients grown directly in the estate gardens. Sweet endings come in the form of a delicate lemon meringue tart and indulgent millionaire shortbread drizzled with salted caramel. Still water is included to complete the experience.
A vegetarian or gluten-free picnic menu is also available. This offering begins with a vibrant seasonal crudité platter accompanied by polenta bites, hummus, and Harissa. Light vegetable crisps provide a satisfying crunch, while a gluten-free grilled halloumi wrap filled with fresh salad greens adds hearty flavour. Vegetable rice paper rolls create a refreshing, crunchy element, and fresh fruit skewers maintain the picnic’s summery essence. The gluten-free Caprese pasta salad and seasonal estate salad mirror the main menu in freshness and estate-grown ingredients. For dessert, guests enjoy chocolate-dipped chickpea meringues, offering a delightful, naturally gluten-free treat. Still water is provided.
Young guests aged eight and under also have a special picnic menu designed just for them. Children can enjoy a beef slider served with kiddies’ coleslaw, tender chicken strips with a tasty dipping sauce, and chocolate-dipped fruit skewers for dessert, all accompanied by a refreshing juice.
Guests may choose wines or additional beverages from the restaurant’s curated list to accompany their picnic, making the experience entirely bespoke.
Experience a Braai or Picnic with Leeu Collection in Franschhoek
Whether you are staying at Leeu Estates, Leeu House, or Le Quartier Français, the team will create a personalised al fresco dining experience tailored to your preferences. Enjoy a private braai surrounded by mountain vistas or settle into a peaceful picnic spot in the vineyards or gardens. In Franschhoek, fire becomes theatre, food becomes connection, and outdoor dining becomes a celebration of South Africa’s generous way of life.
Reach out to our Guest Liaison Team for more information or to arrange your stay.
FAQs
What makes a South African braai different from a regular barbecue?
A South African braai is a cultural ceremony that emphasises wood-fired cooking, slow preparation, shared snacks, storytelling, and a festive sense of togetherness. It is as much about connection as it is about food.
Can guests book a private braai at any Leeu Collection property in Franschhoek?
Yes. Guests staying at Leeu Estates, Leeu House, or Le Quartier Français may arrange a private South African braai, prepared and presented by The Dining Room team.
Where can picnics be enjoyed at Leeu Collection hotels in Franschhoek?
Picnics can be set up in a variety of beautiful on-site outdoor locations, including vineyard settings, manicured lawns, riverside escapes, and scenic corners of each property. The Dining Room team selects the perfect spot based on guest preferences.
Are vegetarian options available for the braai or picnic menus?
Absolutely. Vegetarian guests can enjoy a specially prepared main course at the braai, typically featuring fish of the day or brown mushroom steaks. A full vegetarian and gluten-free picnic menu is also available.
Can families with children book picnics?
Yes. The Dining Room team offers a dedicated kids’ picnic menu for children aged eight and under, making the experience family-friendly and enjoyable for all ages.
