Fast facts

Name of Restaurant: Indochine Restaurant at Delaire Graff

Address: Delaire Graff Estate, Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch

Contact Number: 021 885 8160

Food type: Fine dining

Average price of a main course: Tasting menu from R840

Opening times: Monday to Sunday 12noon to 2pm

Parking: Ample parking available.

Best for… Small and large groups, dates and special occasions.

Food

Indochine offers south and east Asian cuisine. Their evolving tasting menu is an ode to the Silk Road, a spice and silk trade route connecting Thailand and the Far East with the Middle East and Africa. The flavours are inspired by each country on the route.
On one occasion you may find the menu highlighting Thailand, for example. For this iteration of the Silk Road, mains arrive as three components. The smoked mussels arrive in a smoke-filled dome that, when lifted, releases an exciting yet contained cloud of smoke. The curry-infused beef tartare lays beneath a glistening sheath of melon rind and is topped with bright edible flowers.

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It’s not often that fine dining restaurants incorporate the use of chillies, but Indochine dares to be bold and gets it just right. The spice emphasises warmth without burning. Thai food is characterised by fragrant aromas and flavours, and Indochine excels in this regard.
Lastly, sharing bowls of green and red curry with a side of cauliflower are generously portioned, making it great value for money.

Drinks

Delaire Graff is listed in the top 30 best vineyards in the world according to World’s Best Vineyards. Their award-winning wines are affirmed by their cost but the restaurant does stock other reasonably priced South African wines.

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Service

Waiters are warm but not completely knowledgeable on the food and wine menu. A sommelier would also add to the overall flow of service.

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Ambience

Indochine is located on the Delaire Graff estate, nestled along Helshoogte Pass. The drive is more than worth it, welcoming you into an art and wine haven. Large sculptures dot the property lawns and once you’re inside the restaurant, the art element continues – starting with a ceiling installation made of over a thousand perspex swallows that commands centre stage.
There’s a choice between traditional and booth-style seating, with a semi-formal relaxed atmosphere that allows guests to sit back and enjoy the outdoor views.

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