Franschhoek’s first classic Indian-cuisine restaurant, Marigold, will be opening its doors on 8 December, and is set to add a fiery new culinary element to the Winelands town.

A beautiful platter at Marigold. Photo supplied.

The brand-new restaurant will have seasoned chef Vanie Padayachee at the helm with a menu that promises a feast of exotic flavours. The offering will include a small-plates menu inspired by the aromatic and spicy cuisine of Northern India.

Expect a selection of savoury appetisers before moving on to layered rice biryanis or curries. These will range from chicken and slow-cooked lamb to prawns, line fish, chicken or beef kebabs cooked in the charcoal tandoor. Each dish will be accompanied by a variety of traditional bread, rice, salad and raita.

A colourful Indian feast at Marigold. Photo supplied.

Chef Vanie, who hails from Durban and was most recently a part of the Le Quartier Français culinary team, explains that her style of cooking is influenced by the rich diversity of South African culture and will showcase her experience with tempering and blending spices. “My recent visits to India to experience the culture and cuisine first-hand has broadened my knowledge-base and brings an authenticity and tangible reference of its origins to Marigold’s menu,” she explains.

The interior at Marigold. Photo supplied.

As for the look, Marigold’s interior boasts exposed brickwork, timber wood flooring, bold geometric wallpaper and African-inspired fabrics. Banquette-style seating will accommodate 60 guests inside and an outdoor courtyard will seat 20 guests in the hub of Franchhoek’s Heritage Square.

Marigold is located in Heritage Square on Huguenot Street and will be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

The courtyard at Marigold. Photo supplied.