96 Winery Road Restaurant Stellenbosch

I must admit I was very excited to hear that I'd be dining at this well known restaurant, after all everyone raves about it and it's almost an institution around Stellenbosch and Somerset West. We arrived and were immediately impressed by the number of cars in the parking lot, things were looking good. My first impression of the dining room was so-so, we were seated right next to the fireplace which was great (spring has sprung but evenings are chilly) but I thought the decor was a little tired and could be revamped. The menu looked impressive, good taster menu (which I love, but it was just too much for me) a clever 3 course menu ( you choose your courses from the standard menu) and of course the normal menu. Starters were good, we enjoyed the pork belly.

The signature dish is the Hollandse Steak (Fillet with a Dutch green peppercorn sauce, flambed at the table) looks impressive and delicious, my sister-in-law said it was the best steak she'd had in ages. I opted for a vegetarian mushroom tart tatin, a little bland I thought. The catch of the day was a beautiful fresh Cob cooked to perfection. Our desserts were divine a delectable chocolate concoction (flourless baked chocolate sensation) and the sorbets light, flavoursome and delicious. Our waitron was very professional, friendly and unintrusive. We really enjoyed our evening but I can't rave about my experience, but then I probably had too many snacks at the rugby match beforehand... will I return? Probably, but for lunch I think, I'd like to see the views. The wine list was local and lekker!

Now I can say "be there done that!"