Discover the Cape’s Finest Restaurants with the Leeu Collection Chefs
Discover the Cape’s Finest Restaurants Chefs with the Leeu Collection
South Africa’s Cape region is famed for its rich culinary landscape, offering everything from elegant fine dining to honest, hearty food in historic towns.
Who better to offer insider recommendations than the award-winning Leeu Collection Head Chefs?
We asked our Head Chefs from La Petite Colombe (at Leeu Estates), Épice and Protégé (both at Le Quartier Français) to share their favourite places to eat when they’re off-duty.
Here are their top picks, insider tips, and must-order dishes – so you can dine like a local foodie, too…
Ouzeri, Cape Town
Recommended by Peter Duncan, Head Chef at La Petite Colombe
A love letter to Greek and Cypriot cuisine, Ouzeri is the kind of place that turns a simple lunch into a celebration. Chef Nic Charalambous serves up authentic dishes with modern flair, and the lively atmosphere makes it a top pick for locals, tourists, and those in search of something special.
Who Goes There?
Couples on date night, foodies exploring new flavours, families celebrating, and anyone who appreciates warm hospitality and soulful food.
Best Table
● Near the kitchen, for behind-the-scenes action
● By the window, for a view of Cape Town’s buzzing Wale Street
● In a cosy corner, for intimate conversation
Best Time to Visit
A sunny Saturday lunch in summer, when the vibe is high and the food is fresh.
Must-Try Dishes
● Eliopita: Olive and anchovy bread with roasted garlic
● Lahanadolmades: Stuffed cabbage leaves with truffle lemon sauce
● Grilled Octopus and Moussaka
● Rizogalo: Creamy rice pudding with caramel
Why Chef Peter Loves It
From the flavourful small plates to the warm Greek hospitality, Ouzeri is an unforgettable experience with every bite.
The Red Room, Cape Town
Recommended by Charné Sampson, Head Chef at Épice
Hidden beneath Cape Town’s iconic Mount Nelson Hotel, The Red Room by Chefs Warehouse is an atmospheric dining destination that blends Asian-inspired flavours with signature fine-dining finesse. With a moody, opulent interior and warm hospitality, it’s a space made for indulgent dinners with friends, family, or someone special.
Best Table
Nestled in the centre of the dining room, it’s semi-private with flowing curtains and soft lantern light – perfect for groups of 6–10 people.
Top Tip: Arrive just before sunset and enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at the Planet Bar upstairs. Then head down for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Must-Try Dish
The signature Peking duck – a house favourite that’s so popular guests often pre-order it to avoid disappointment.
Why Chef Charné Loves It
Red Room is perfect for winter nights, special occasions, and showstopping shared plates.
Noop, Paarl
Recommended by Andrew Willemse, Head Chef at Protégé
A firm local favourite in the heart of Paarl, Noop is the kind of relaxed, reliable spot where good food and good company come together effortlessly. Whether you're sipping wine on the stoep or cosying up inside by the fire, it's a must-visit if you find yourself in the Cape Winelands.
Best Table
● Outside on the stoep on a sunny day – great for people watching with a chilled glass of local wine
● Indoors by the fireplace on cooler days – ideal for a romantic lunch or dinner
Best Time to Visit
A warm, sunny afternoon – arrive hungry and settle in for a leisurely lunch.
Must-Try Dish
The daily blackboard specials – always fresh, always seasonal, and often the best thing on the menu.
Why Chef Andrew Loves It
It’s local, unfussy, and consistently delicious. Think country charm with a touch of sophistication.
Ernie Els Wines, Stellenbosch
Recommended by Chef Brent Malander, Head Chef at The Dining Room
If you're after great food, bold wines, and breathtaking views, Ernie Els Wines is a solid choice. Sitting high on a hill in the Stellenbosch Winelands, this stylish yet laid-back spot serves up modern farmhouse fare with a gourmet touch – think grilled sirloin, lamb ragu penne, fresh line fish, and hearty bites hot off the open-fire grill.
Who’s it For?
A real mix of guests:
● Food and wine lovers who appreciate a good Cabernet and generous, flavourful plates
● Couples after a romantic lunch or sunset dinner with mountain and vineyard views
● Groups and celebrations – from birthdays and family get-togethers to business lunches
● Locals who love the relaxed vibe and consistently great food
● Tourists wanting that classic winelands combo: wine, food, and scenery
Where to Sit
The terrace is the go-to for vineyard and mountain views – ideal on a sunny day. On cooler days, the fireplace inside the main dining room makes for a warm and inviting spot.
Best Time to Go
● Lunch (Wed–Sun, 12h00 – 15h30) is perfect for a long, lazy meal with a glass in hand
● Dinner (Thurs – Sat, Nov – Apr) brings a more refined, intimate atmosphere
Dishes to order
The grilled sirloin with smoked cauliflower purée is a must – rich, flavourful, and made to pair with a glass of Ernie Els Cabernet Sauvignon.
For something lighter, try the line fish of the day – fresh, seasonal, and best with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Chef’s Tip
Visit on a summer weekend when the Grillworks fire kitchen is live on the terrace – it’s a full sensory experience you won’t want to miss.
Final Bite
Whether you’re indulging in Asian fusion at The Red Room, sharing meze under the sun at Ouzeri, or sipping wine at Ernie Els or Noop, these chef-approved spots promise some of the best restaurants in the Cape.
