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 in 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 felt a little tired and could use a revamp. The menu looked impressive: a 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, and we enjoyed the pork belly.

The signature dish, the Hollandse Steak (Fillet with a Dutch green peppercorn sauce, flambeed 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 (a flourless baked chocolate sensation), and the sorbets were light, flavourful, and delicious. Our waiter was very professional, friendly, and unintrusive. We really enjoyed our evening, but I can't rave about my experience, as 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 "been there, done that!"

Winery Road, Zandberg Farm, Stellenbosch.

Tel. 021 842 2020

Website www.96wineryroad.co.za