One&Only Cape Town has long set the standard for resort lifestyle and high-class dining within the Cape Town metropolitan area. Now, the local culinary scene is about to be set aflame once more with the arrival of One&Only Cape Town’s newest restaurant, ROOI. 

ROOI is a celebration of land and sea, touched by fire. As a South African grillroom, ROOI looks to redefine the traditional dining experience, allowing local influences to shine through in the smallest details, from decor to menu. The name comes from the Afrikaans (one of the twelve official languages of South Africa) word for ‘red’, a colour associated with power, vitality and life. A further extension of this colour is associated with flames and fire, a core pillar upon which ROOI rests. The renowned resort already boasts four other dining outlets for guests to indulge in, namely the reimagined Vista Bar & Lounge, exclusive poolside Mediterranean-inspired Isola, the intimate Wine Studio and iconic Nobu. 

ROOI menu: a culinary experience
Cape Town is known for its blend of flavours, cultures and dishes, many of which provide inspiration for the new ROOI menu. In this sophisticated dining space, guests will find the team fulfilling the role of a guide to time-honoured South African dishes and ingredients; from explaining the allure of freshly caught seafood and the appeal of local tantalising prime cuts to the history of beloved desserts. Included in the ROOI team are the wine stewards, who are brimming with knowledge and ready at a moment’s notice to provide valuable insights into local wines. 

A common South African communal activity is that of a ‘braai’ (or barbeque). Here, friends and family gather to enjoy a meal cooked over hot coals or wood, accompanied by flowing conversation, local drinks and general merriment. This activity can be seen in ROOI, where, inspired by the notion of community, the naturally warm and sophisticated setting invites all to enjoy the space with loved ones. With the concept of fire providing the basis for the menu, the vibrant heritage of South African braais come to life in this exquisite setting, where laughter, music and the sound of sizzling abound. This is the room in which the concept of the ‘braai’ can be felt rather than seen. 

From fire, comes life and flavour. Reborn from the flames and present in every dish, South Africa’s ‘touch’ can be seen with each item having been sourced from local suppliers, who in turn, get the opportunity to showcase their specialty produce. The ROOI team has worked tirelessly to ensure all ingredients are sustainably sourced and ethically produced, with limited air miles being utilised to sustain the kitchen’s needs.   

Being primarily a grillroom, guests can look forward to steaks, with multiple cuts of South African Wagyu, prime beef options and a few ‘ROOI Selects’ on the menu, which includes the likes of aged mutton, Kalahari venison and masala-spiced kingklip. A variety of vegan and vegetarian options allow the country’s finest produce to be celebrated on their own. For those looking to enjoy fare from the sea more than from the land, the fresh grilled South Coast rock lobster or sensational flame-grilled tuna are there to be enjoyed. A classic lamb-shank potjie (a popular local dish) is also on offer, as are other South African favourites, such as sweet and satisfying hertzoggies or velvety malva pudding for dessert. 

Not to be outdone, the beverage list has been meticulously curated and offers a variety of premium local options, including locally produced beers, wines and soft drinks, as well as a magnificent mixology menu, complete with domestic rums, brandies, whiskies, gins and other spirits. Guests can take a journey through the country exploring signature cocktails, each one named after and inspired by the nine provinces of South Africa. All the while, a bespoke Cap Classique cart joins patrons as it does the rounds, with a refined list of premium, lesser-known Cap Classiques from the surrounding wine regions.  

Wine culture has long been celebrated in South Africa and One&Only Cape Town. The new Tasting Table alongside the Wine Loft at ROOI seeks to showcase the world of wine, in a unique and memorable setting. The Wine Loft offers patrons wishing to enjoy private dining for two a unique space to do so, while the Tasting Table offers a more open style of dining amongst friend groups of eight. The curated wine list has been handpicked by Luvo Ntezo, the resort’s Head Sommelier, with each wine selected to ensure that only the best of the best is showcased. Included in this list are little-known wine farms, boutique vineyards and international classics that allow for every wine drinker to go on a journey around the country (or even the world) without moving out of their seat. Not only will Luvo and his team of wine stewards guide guests through tannins, tastings and more, but they will be able to suggest appropriate pairings alongside any dinner choices, allowing for every meal to be a bespoke one. 

Design and decor
The design and decor of the space blends local artistry with natural elements, such as the pincushion protea embossed on menus and tables or the wooden horned seats, inspired by South Africa’s Ankole cattle, arranged around tables for two. The use of stone and various woods, including large Natal mahogany trees, creates an outdoor feel, complemented by a host desk crafted from burnt wood with carvings reflecting the Koisan tribes. An inlay rug showcases local flora and fauna in a swirling pattern and a custom mural by Elise Wessels illustrates an enchanting African landscape with whimsical animals. Warm terracotta and copper tones, alongside soft limestone green, anchor the main dining area, while earthy shades ground the richer colours. The centrepiece of the open kitchen is a stunning tapestry of forged metal tiling in purple, rust, silver and platinum; crafted by Bronze Age, it adds a striking theatrical element to the room. 

ROOI was created to provide a dining space that blends modern luxury and local culture while representing the rich tapestry of South African cuisine. In doing so, ROOI seeks to create a space for all to feel welcomed, to enjoy a delicious meal among loved ones, and most importantly, to feel at home.  

The next Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards will take place in early 2025 where the Eat Out Yoco Best New Restaurant will be announced. Stay tuned to Eat Out for further updates!