One of Cape Town’s best-known tourist attractions, the Two Oceans Aquarium, has seen a dramatic drop in visitor numbers over the past year, as the stream of local and international travellers has dwindled to a mere trickle.

When the team at the aquarium was approached by Chef Darren Badenhorst (of award-winning Franschhoek restaurant Le coin Français) and Storyboard Events about hosting a dinner, they jumped at the chance to bring some life and energy back into the venue.

Chef Darren Badenhorst. Photo supplied.

We chatted with Thomas Pryor of Storyboard Events and he told us: “Darren and I both being from Durban and both having a strong affiliation to the ocean and a deep respect for it, and all of our friends in it, we are both very aware of the broader perceptions toward fishing, as well as the negative connotation towards aquariums.”

Thomas continued about the motivation between partnering with the aquarium: “We are acutely aware of the good work the Two Oceans Aquarium does to rescue, rehabilitate and return sea life to the ocean and, with this, Storyboard Events will be contributing a percentage of profit to the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation towards their important work in line with conservation and education.”

Chef Darren will be serving a five-course dinner of carefully prepared local ingredients such as sustainable Franschhoek trout, Karoo lamb and organic, seasonal greens harvested from the Le coin Français gardens on Leeu Estate.

The menu will be paired with wines by Haute Cabriere and cognac by Hennessy VSOP.

Diners will be seated directly in front of the aquatic exhibits, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere that will delight both ocean-lovers and foodies alike. Safety precautions will be in place to ensure that both staff and guests are protected throughout.

 

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We can’t wait to see what Darren and his team produce in this magical and enchanting venue!

Dining In A Silent World takes place at the Two Oceans Aquarium, V & A Waterfront on Friday 23 April 2021. The five-course dinner starts at R1 250, with a wine pairing menu available at R1 795. Proceeds will go towards the Two Oceans Foundation.

Seating will be limited, so be sure to book your seat at Quicket.com.