La Petite Colombe, the 2017 Eat Out Retail Capital New Restaurant of the Year, is already soaring.

La Petite Colombe receiving the Eat Out Retail Capital New Restaurant of the Year Award. Photo by Shavan Rahim.

The anticipation was undeniable when the team from La Colombe announced that they would be opening a version of the Constantia restaurant in the heart of Franschhoek, taking the place of Margot Janse’s iconic The Tasting Room, no less.

The elegant La Petite Colombe. Photo supplied.

With a new name and a fresh look, La Petite Colombe opened its doors on 1 August 2017 to win hearts – as well as the 2017 Eat Out Retail Capital New Restaurant of the Year award. In partnership with the owners of Leeu Collection and under the capable hands of proprietor chefs and business partners Scot Kirton and James Gaag, La Petite Colombe hit the ground running by delivering an impressive level of exemplary service and beautifully executed food for which the La Colombe name has become internationally recognised.

The wagyu beef at La Petite Colombe. Photo by Claire Gunn Photography.

With big shoes to fill, La Petite Colombe certainly holds her ground in the culinary French Corner of the Cape with a seasonal menu that is both sophisticated and exciting. The stellar service is also another highlight.

The beef tataki with Jerusalem artichoke. Photo by Claire Gunn Photography.

Following on from the success of the opening of sister restaurant Foxcroft – the winner of this award in 2016 – it’s clear that Scot and James have an excellent grasp on what it takes to open a stand-out new restaurant.

The palate cleanser of pineapple and lime at La Petite Colombe. Photo by Claire Gunn Photography.

The chef duo directs a team of talented chefs, including young La Petite Colombe head chef John Norris-Rogers, who is thriving in his new role and leading the kitchen with professionalism and style. From beautiful breads to the exquisite desserts, the culinary team doesn’t miss a beat.

Head judge Abigail Donnelly is impressed by the restaurant’s seamless launch: “La Petite Colombe is a winning new player, where food is ambitious and service pacey and professional”.

The stone fruit dessert with Valrhona dulcey from La Colombe. Photo by Claire Gunn Photography

About the sponsor

Retail Capital, the market leader in business finance, has advanced over R1 billion to business owners, providing them with unsecured and convenient access to working capital when they need it. Due to the flexible repayments and unrestricted use of the funds, many business owners have had the opportunity to expand their businesses, restaurant or offerings, revamp their current facilities or had assistance with the seasonal trade cycles so commonly experienced in their industry.