// CAPE TOWN // CONSTANTIA //
la colombe
gastronomic theatre in the vineyards
Hidden high up the slopes of Constantia in the pristine Silvermist Wine Estate, La Colombe is one of the most celebrated dining institutions in South Africa. Consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants, dining here is more than a meal, it’s a gastronomic journey, an artful culinary production where every dish unfolds like a carefully composed scene in a play.
The space itself is simple, minimal, a bit sterile like you’d expect of a fine dining establishment of its generation. A wall of windows overlook the vineyard and mountains beyond. The white tablecloths act like a blank canvas for the artistically plated dishes to shine.
The presentation surprises and delights. The experience begins with a table side display of all of the ingredients that are going into the menu. And then the courses begin. Botanical, playful, whimsical. Cheeses for charcuterie shaped like fruit, tuna served in a can, a rose and raspberry dessert shaped like a pink rose. The menu brings innovative French finesse to South African ingredients, resulting in a tasting menu that draws you in with intrigue with each coming course.
It is, as executive chef James Gaag says, a theatrical experience. Food is theater, and La Colombe is a refined stage for the beautiful show. Nearly three decades later, it still stands strong as a culinary force and memorable dining experience in Cape Town.
the details
| Address | Silvermist Wine Estate, Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town |
| Website | https://www.lacolombe.restaurant/la-colombe |
| Reviews | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g312660-d1009903-Reviews-La_Colombe-Constantia_Western_Cape.html |
| @lacolombect | |
| Hours | 12-14:00, 18:30-21:00 every day |
| Price | $$$ – seasonal lunch menu is R1195 (~$65 for 8 courses) with the standard lunch menu at R1995 (~$110 for 9 courses) and dinner is R2195 ($120 for 10 courses), add ons and wine pairings available; for travelers visiting from other big cities, the pricing here is a steal for this level of fine dining |
| Aesthetic | minimal, elegant, modern, with an airy, natural light filled dining room |
good to know
Go here for:Â a special occasion meal, and that special occasion can be to celebrate being in Cape Town
Order this: it’s a tasting menu only, so your only decisions will be for drinks, add ons, and the petit fours case at the end
Amount of time to spend: 2-3 hours, it’s a theatrical dining experience meant to be savored
When to come:Â lunch allows for more appreciation of the beautiful vineyard surrounding, while dinner is more of an intimate dining experience; regardless be sure to get a reservation well in advance
Getting here:Â best to be dropped off, but they do have a small parking lot
Other things to note:Â
- They have vegetarian tasting menus available and can accommodate certain dietary restrictions or allergies with advance notice.
- Reservations are available online and require a deposit.
- No children under the age of 8 allowed.
Last visited: August 2024
Last updated: January 2025