Chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin are set to open their new dining space, Dawn by Dusk, next month in Stellenbosch.  

Designed as a kitchen-first space, Dawn by Dusk is a test kitchen at its heart, where up to 24 guests can enjoy a bespoke, multi-sensory experience that blurs the line between chef and patron. It’s also a quiet space for chef Callan to think up new ideas and experiment with innovative dishes. 

 

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“Since opening Dusk in 2023, Stellenbosch has cemented itself as the epicentre of commerce – from private banking to farming – in the greater Winelands region, and we realised that an ultra-exclusive private dining space is what is desired by many of the who’s who of the town. Callan and I are extremely excited to open the doors to Dawn by Dusk!” says Darren. 

The contemporary private dining room features an open kitchen, situated at eye level, that allows guests to watch as their dishes are being prepared. There is one communal table that seats 24 diners or it can be divided into two smaller tables that accommodate more intimate gatherings of 10.  

A 45-degree mirror hangs over the pass, so guests have a unique view of their food being prepared – cementing the feeling that they are part of a culinary performance and deepening their connection with the chefs.  

Saying goodbye to traditional formats, the dining space will embrace a fluid menu that evolves in response to the seasons, diner preferences and the chefs’ current inspirations. Callan’s expertise with fermentation will also play an important role in shaping Dawn’s culinary narrative, as will hyper-local and sustainably sourced produce. 

But Darren and Callan have created the space to be not just an experience for diners, they want it to serve as “a sanctuary for independent craftsmen, from cellar masters and distillers to merchants and farmers; a chapeau to small-batch producers and the like.” 

In the future, the chefs will be collaborating with like-minded local and international chefs and producers to offer ‘four-hands’ style culinary events, as well as hosting kitchen demos in partnership with premium culinary and beverage brands. 

For booking enquiries, email reservations@duskrestaurant.co.za or book online via duskrestaurant.co.za.