Summer Delights: Dining, Drinks, and Escapes to Savour This Season
The who, what, where and why for this summer season
To the beach...
Acclaimed chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin have launched The Beach House, a new restaurant on the edge of Yzerfontein's breathtaking 16-Mile Beach. This latest venture celebrates the authentic West Coast experience, blending rustic charm with seaside elegance in a beautifully reimagined 80-year-old beach house. The menu highlights the region's fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including signature dishes such as Baai Slaai and Whole Baked Line-Caught Fish. With its sights set on becoming a local icon, make this your go-to stop this festive season.
beachhouserestaurant.co.za
Holidays cheers
Delightfully crisp and unashamedly adventurous, the Van Hunks Brut and Brut Rosé Cap Classiques will be topping up our flutes all through the silly season.
vanhunksdrinks.co.za
A suitable accompaniment to summer soirees, the 2024 Vin de Joie Rosé from La Motte is a crisp yet velvety wine that we’ll be packing for picnics and alfresco lunches.
R110, lamotte.com
Farm favourites
The magic of one of our most beloved Cape wine farms has been captured in a coffee table tome. The 250-page book offers an in-depth look at Babylonstoren’s rich history, from its magnificent garden and winery to its luxury hotel, spa and farm-to-table restaurants. Featuring captivating photography and stories of the artisans and experts behind the scenes, Babylonstoren is a must-have for those captivated by the beauty of nature and fine craftsmanship.
R790, babylonstoren.com
Finishing touch
What could be a better gift than one of style? Luxury lifestyle brand Okapi is the perfect source this social season for genuine leather accessories, bags and fine jewellery. At the top of our wish list is the Nambi feather clutch in a striking flame red.
R19 800, okapi.com
Hit refresh
Looking for the perfect short escape? The Cellars- Hohenort Hotel and Spa in Cape Town’s Constantia Valley offers a luxurious yet homely stay, where you can immerse yourself in their new Restorative Retreat offering. The package includes a garden-view room, yoga mat, resistance bands and a 30-minute neck, back and shoulder massage at their Fresh Wellness Spa. You can also lavish in a multi-course breakfast and a two-course dinner at The Conservatory restaurant.
thecellars-hohenort.com
Feel the heat
In the heart of the Cape Winelands’s Banhoek Valley you will find the Banhoek Chilli Oil Taste Kitchen and Leopard Lounge Tasting Room. Renowned for their exceptional chilli oils, now sold locally and at other notable spots internationally such as the Harrods, the company’s restaurant is not to be missed. Try something different with a chilli oil tasting before indulging in one of their ovenbaked pizzas. The BCO Leopard Lounge invites visitors to enjoy an exclusive wine tasting, featuring a curated selection of exquisite wines from the Banhoek Valley, alongside the world-renowned chilli oil tasting. An exquisite sensory journey for all.
Text by Catherine Mo