
La Petite Colombe
A fine-dining gem in the Franschhoek Wine Valley, offering creative South African cuisine, impeccable service, and stunning vineyard views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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La Petite Colombe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fine-dining gem in the Franschhoek Wine Valley, offering creative South African cuisine, impeccable service, and stunning vineyard views.
"Best meal I’ve had in a while - worth every cent. Easily the top bread course I’ve ever had."
Opt for the Tasting Menu
Embark on a sensational culinary journey with the full chef's tasting menu for an unforgettable experience.
Lunchtime Advantage
Visit during lunchtime for a remarkable experience that may be less crowded than dinner.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Modern South African
Price
$$$
Phone
+27 21 202 3395
Address
Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek, South Africa
Website
lapetitecolombe.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Culinary Journey with Local Produce
Indulge in superbly conceived tasting menus using the finest South African produce, showcasing creativity and meticulous presentation.

Breathtaking Winelands Views
Dine in a warm and inviting atmosphere with breathtaking views of the winelands, enhancing the memorable dining experience.

Impeccable Service
Experience top-notch, professional, and attentive service from staff in a sleek and understated setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Opt for the Tasting Menu
Embark on a sensational culinary journey with the full chef's tasting menu for an unforgettable experience.
Lunchtime Advantage
Visit during lunchtime for a remarkable experience that may be less crowded than dinner.
Wine Pairing Caution
Consider skipping the wine pairing; the food is the true standout, and the pairing is similarly priced.
Generous Portions
Be prepared for generous portions on the tasting menu; consider sharing if you prefer smaller servings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Opt for the Tasting Menu
Embark on a sensational culinary journey with the full chef's tasting menu for an unforgettable experience.
Lunchtime Advantage
Visit during lunchtime for a remarkable experience that may be less crowded than dinner.
Wine Pairing Caution
Consider skipping the wine pairing; the food is the true standout, and the pairing is similarly priced.
Generous Portions
Be prepared for generous portions on the tasting menu; consider sharing if you prefer smaller servings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Petite Colombe is celebrated for its exquisitely conceived tasting menus, masterful presentation, and impeccable service set against breathtaking winelands views. While many rave about the culinary artistry and memorable experiences, some diners have noted repetition in dishes or found the tasting menus to be excessively large. A few also mentioned occasional service inconsistencies or a desire for more pronounced flavors.
"Wow, we always return to one of our favourite fine dining spots in the SA winelands, and once again, the multiple-course tasting menu did not disappoint (low-key out of this world). Each dish was expertly prepared, full of incredible flavors, and beautifully presented. The service was warm and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The setting in the winelands is the perfect backdrop, turning the meal into the most unreal experience. Honestly, this place compares to, if not outshines, some of the 3 Michelin star restaurants I’ve been to in London. It’s definitely worth the visit, and we’ll always be back for sure!"
Kyla Eichhorn
"The service, the presentation, the combination of taste, the atmosphere… it was quite the experience to not miss out on. It’s an interactive experience with some entertainment on how they serve the dishes. The tasting menu was a lot of food, way too much- they could have cut down on some courses or portions. But everything was great!"
Natalie D
"Had the Winter Lunch Menu. Was great however didn't meet my expectation. Expected more flavours and an interesting take to the meals I terms of taste. Designed well though along with stylish crockery. Also personally not a fan of cold ceviche style dishes. Definitely recommend the experience. Setting is outstanding. Exceptional location and well maintained vineyard. So much class. Service was excellent as well."
Dren Naidoo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
La Petite Colombe is known for its multi-course tasting menus, creative use of South African produce, stunning winelands setting, and exceptional service.
Many guests find the food to be the highlight, and the wine pairing is similarly priced. Consider if wine pairing is a priority for your experience.
Lunch is considered equally remarkable, and visiting during lunchtime might offer a less crowded experience.
The tasting menus are known for generous portions, with some guests finding it to be a lot of food.
While not explicitly stated, fine dining restaurants often suggest smart casual attire. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed.
While not explicitly listed, fine dining establishments typically strive to accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.
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The best places to eat in the Western Cape, South Africa: Karen Anand picks
Voted one of the best restaurants in South Africa and among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2024, much has been written about the original La Colombe (the Dove). La Petite Colombe on the beautiful Leeu Estates in the Cape Winelands offers nine or five-course tasting menus with superbly conceived dishes executed with the best South African produce: local beef, oysters and truffle, crayfish and olives. With lots of drama and informed service, this is for a special night out.
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Sister restaurant to Cape Town's fêted La Colombe, the food, ambiance, wine selection and service at La Petite Colombe are simply impeccable. The decor is sleek and understated because the true work of art is the food—an 11-course banquet showcasing French cooking techniques and the finest ingredients. Also on-site is the tasting room for Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, whose red wines in particular are revered.
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We had the extraordinary pleasure of eating at La Petite Colombe within a week of its launch and, after just seven days of service, this relaxed and refined newcomer feels as well-oiled and established as its feted Constantia sibling. The menu Heading the kitchen is John Norris-Rogers, a bright-faced young chefwho spent four-and-a-half years honing his skills under La Colombe’s Scot Kirton and James Gaag. His self-assured demeanour belies his 26 years, as he dazzles diners with a theatrical array of nine superb and creative dishes (if you opt for the Full Menu; or five courses if you choose the Reduced Menu).After arriving at our table to present his inspired Springbok Tataki course, John is quick to play down his fast-tracked trajectory when we ask about his brand-new baby: “I think it’s easier to step into an existing concept, than to start something from scratch.” Which is fair enough… but as similar as the two restaurants seem in terms of the slick and sophisticated overall experience, it definitely feels as though John has put his unique stamp on the menu here.
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A veritable jewel in the Franschhoek food crown, La Petite Colombe offers visitors an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the Franschhoek Wine Valley. Recipient of various prestigious culinary awards, some of which include the 2020 ‘Trip Advisor Travellers Choice’ award, the ‘50 Best Discovery’ Restaurant award, ‘Trip Advisor Travellers Choice’, and ‘Eat Out Top 10 Restaurant’ award in 2019 (to mention just a few), La Petite Colombe has firmly established itself as one of the best Franschhoek restaurants and the Western Cape. Diners can expect sensational culinary creations and a theatrical array of superb dishes from La Petite Colombe’s exceptionally talented Head Chef John Norris-Rogers.
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La Petite Colombe is the Franschhoek sister of Cape Town’s La Colombe, founded by Scot Kirton (Eat Out Chef of the Year 2015) and head chef James Gaag. Housed within Leeu Estates, the dining room showcases Cape Dutch architecture, decorated with modern minimalism design – white walls, dark timber beams and soft, ambient lighting that keeps the focus on the food. La Petite Colombe’s tasting menus focus on seasonal produce, some highlights include Karoo lamb with Cape Malay spices, a line fish crudo accented by foraged fynbos and a cheese course celebrating artisanal flavours from across the Western Cape.
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La Petite Colombe is the winner of the Eat Out Retail Capital New Restaurant of the Year, where Scot Kirton and James Gaag worked with head chef John Norris-Rogers to create a menu of beautifully executed food. Think salmon with brinjal, miso mayo, kalamansi, avo and umami jelly; barbecue quail lollipops with langoustine, mussel velouté, bok choy and playful popcorn; and springbok tataki with macadamia dust, Jerusalem artichoke espuma and pistachio. Seared Wagyu rump with fall-apart braised brisket is taken to new heights with deep-fried sweetbreads, soubise and sherry velouté.
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Three-star restaurant and winner of the Eat Out Patrón Mixology Award for its phenomenal cocktails and innovative approach to mixology, La Petite Colombe is located at the beautiful Leeu Estates. Although the name of the restaurant may suggest something small or little, there’s nothing ‘petite’ about the textures, flavours and presentation of each dish. With a bold approach to flavour and a commitment to excellence, the fine dining restaurant offers two tasting menus that showcase chef Peter Duncan and the team’s attention to detail and consistency in excellence.
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A veritable jewel in Franschhoek’s culinary crown, La Petite Colombe (the sibling of Constantia’s superlative La Colombe) is a relaxed, refined and flawlessly five-star eatery set in the exclusive surroundings of Leeu Estates wine farm. Floor to ceiling windows look out over sculpture gardens and vines to a glorious mountain backdrop in a cocoon of understated luxury. Chef Peter Duncan presides over a theatrical, multi-course menu of superb dishes which flow seamlessly from his kitchen – from oysters and crayfish to the exquisite sweets trolley.
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The award-winning and well-known La Colombe restaurant, which is situated in Constantia, one of South Africa's oldest wine-producing regions, opened a sister location at Leeu Estates to bring its celebrated experience to the Franschhoek valley. La Petite Colombe, which translates to "small dove," provides the best service and delicious multi-course lunches and evenings with a dash of humour and drama for a singular dining experience. Floor-to-ceiling glass creates the impression that you are in the nearby vineyards throughout the day.
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This young and talented chef is leading the kitchen at one of the top Franschhoek restaurants. Prior to launching La Petite Colombe in 2017, Chef Norris-Rogers worked at its big brother restaurant, La Colombe, under the mentorship of well-known chefs Scot Kirton and James Gaag. La Colombe has been consistently listed as one of the world’s best restaurants over the years and has had several famous chefs work in its kitchen including Luke Dale-Roberts who went on to start The Test Kitchen in Cape Town.
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One of South Africa’s finest, La Petite Colombe is a renowned fine-dining restaurant that should be on the top of any foodie’s visit to Franschhoek. Boasting an incredible three Michelin stars and an inclusion in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, La Colombe fuses French and Asian influences to create unforgettable dishes. Helmed by Head Chef Peter Duncan at the picturesque Leeu Estates, the restaurant offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
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A meal at La Petite Colombe is modern fine dining at its most celebratory. The chef’s tasting menu is a parade of intricately presented flavour bombs; traditional South African ingredients such as biltong and snoek (a native white fish related to mackerel) make appearances after Mexican-style steak and before Cape Malay-style tuna. The restaurant, with its Scandi-style interior, is surrounded by great stretches of manicured gardens in the spectacular environment of the Leeu estate.
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Delicate foams, intricate miniature portions, plates arranged with layers of edible ‘soil’ emitting fog, would not be described as your conventional dish - or maybe not even your first preference!. However, La Petite Colombe has successfully managed to wow their guests each time, and firmly position themselves as one of the top restaurants in the country. La Petite Colombe offers a unique dining experience offering you art on a plate with an infusion of tastes and vibrant colour.
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La Petite Colombe, tucked away amidst the stunning vineyards of South Africa's Franschhoek, offers a dining experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. The restaurant's scenic location, nestled amongst lush wineries with a backdrop of dramatic mountains, sets the stage for a meal that is as visually stunning as it is gastronomically impressive. From the moment you step into La Petite Colombe, you are embraced by an ambiance of elegance, comfort, and sophistication.
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Located in the picturesque town of Franschhoek, La Petite Colombe offers a dining experience that is both intimate and extraordinary. This sister restaurant to La Colombe embraces a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere, yet maintains the same level of culinary excellence. Under the guidance of Executive Chef John Norris-Rogers, La Petite Colombe presents a menu that reflects a modern interpretation of classic French cuisine with a touch of South African influence.
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La Petite Colombe presents a food journey like no other, where a reduced menu becomes a canvas for exceptional flavours and artistic presentations. This establishment has perfected the art of offering an intimate and extraordinary dining experience that tantalizes the senses and leaves an indelible impression. Starting with the Leeu Estate olives that awaken the palate, the journey continues with dishes that elevate ingredients to new heights.
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A veritable jewel in Franschhoek’s culinary crown, La Petite Colombe remains one of the most coveted dining experiences in the Cape. Situated at Leeu Estates wine farm, the sibling of Constantia’s superlative La Colombe is a relaxed yet refined and flawlessly five-star eatery helmed by chef Peter Duncan. A theatrical, multi-course array of superb dishes flows out of his kitchen – from oysters and crayfish to the sweets trolley.
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Not only is Franschhoek the perfect spot to sport red lipstick and your classiest beret, but it’s also a wonderful destination to sip award-winning wines and the finest cuisine. When you’re done exploring this popular Cape Winelands destination, head to La Petite Colombe for a culinary experience like no other. From crayfish and caviar to confit mussel and coconut, their reduced menu will leave you speechless.
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La Petite Colombe - “little dove” - offers diners the highest level of excellence, from service to exquisite multi-course lunches and dinners sprinkled with touches of whimsy and drama for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. During the day, floor-to-ceiling glass gives you the feeling of being in the surrounding vineyards. “A meal at La Petite Colombe restaurant is like doing the tango with a stranger.
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A meal at La Petite Colombe restaurant is like doing the tango with a stranger. - La Petite Colombe is the sister restaurant of the widely acclaimed La Colombe in Constantia, both are positioned amongst the top restaurants in the world. Visitors to Franschhoek can now look forward to experiencing the same level of service excellence and exquisite cuisine, but with a fresh new twist.
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Arguably the best high-end restaurants in Franschhoek La Petite Combe offers a 10 course and an 8-course meal (only available for lunch). It is the epitome of elegance and caters for those that love the finer things in life and have the pockets to match it. The restaurant seats 54 and you can expect to be wooed by classic jazz background music with chic interiors.
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If you’re celebrating something (or simply in the mood to indulge), places like La Petite Colombe, Le Coin Français, and Epice offer a tasting menu experience you’ll remember long after the last course. For a few highlights from our own kitchen, have a look at the Top 5 Dishes at Monneaux. They book up quickly, so we’re happy to help secure a table ahead of time.
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La Colombe (‘the dove”) has consistently received world-wide acclaim and is positioned amongst the top restaurants in the world. Visitors to Franschhoek can now look forward to experiencing the same level of service excellence and exquisite cuisine that has put La Colombe on the map - but with a new venture comes a new twist. Introducing La Petite Colombe ...
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The opening of Le Petit Manoir will further raise the bar of the restaurant reputation of Franschhoek, which is already blessed with award-winning restaurants and chefs: Le Petite Colombe, Chef Darren Badenhorst and his Le Coin Français, Chef Chris Erasmus and his Foliage, new Pierneef à La Motte Chef Eric Bulpitt, and Grand Provence and its Chef Guy Bennett.
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Located in the stunning Leeu Estates (home to Leeu Passant, one of the best wine farms in Franschhoek), La Petite Colombe delivers on every front. You should absolutely budget to spend the whole afternoon here for a long, lazy lunch. But once you have a taste of the amuse bouche, you’ll have no problems spending the entire day at La Petite Colombe.
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Picture this: a farm environment nestled in an outstandingly beautiful venue, surrounded by vineyards and meticulously manicured landscapes, with views of the breathtaking Franschhoek Valley and Pass. Sounds too good to be true?. La Petite Colombe in the Cape Winelands brings this affair to life, coupled with outstanding contemporary fine dining.
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The La Colombe group are known for doing things seamlessly and elegantly and this is exactly the case at the group’s most recent addition – Protégé Restaurant, in Franschhoek. The restaurant is located in the courtyard and building just opposite La Petite Colombe and is attached to Le Quartier Francais, all form part of the Leeu Collection.
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La Petite Colombe is a sister restaurant to La Colombe, in Constantia, which has received recognition for its world-class cuisine and service. Franschhoek visitors will enjoy the same benefits, but from the beautiful location at Le Quartier Français. What makes this restaurant different is its down-to-earth atmosphere and stunning setting.
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For a more relaxed dining experience, Franschhoek has plenty of options. La Petite Colombe offers a casual dining experience, with a menu that focuses on locally sourced ingredients that are expertly prepared and presented. The restaurant's menu changes regularly, ensuring that diners are always treated to new and exciting flavours.
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La Petite Colombe, which translates to “small dove,” provides the best service and excellent multi-course meals and dinners to its customers. With floor to ceiling glassing, you are able to capture the full experience of the surrounding vineyards during the day. Be advised to check their menu & pricing before making a booking here
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I’ve been wanting to visit La Petite Colombe for many years but I’ve never been able to find the time to drive out to Franschoek. I took my mother to La Colombe as her first fine dining experience and she absolutely loved it so I was excited to experience La Petite with her. It was the perfect excuse for a weekend a...
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La Petite Colombe offers a fine dining experience to die for. Its limited selection of tasting menus boasts course after course of delicious, locally-sourced food. Opt for the Chefs Experience for delightful plates including oysters with carne asada and grapefruit, or a Cape Malay tuna, cilantro, and coconut dish.
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Part of the celebrated La Colombe group, La Petite Colombe in Franschhoek is one of the town’s best restaurants, renowned for its innovative French-Asian fusion cuisine paired with exceptional wines. Nestled on the Leeu Estate, it provides an unforgettable culinary feast with stunning mountain views.
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La Petite Colombe, situated in the heart of the valley, is a must-try restaurant for foodies. The culinary experience here is something to behold. Led by head chef John Norris Rogers, their unique and progressive approach to cooking creates a dining experience that is nothing short of spectacular.
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La Petite Colombe is the sister restaurant of La Colombe which has won many awards, including JHP Gourmet Guide - 3 Plates (highest accolade). It serves a multi-course Contemporary French-meets-Asian fine dining menu and is set amongst the striking scenery and sculptures at the Leeeu Estate.
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La Petite Colombe is one of the best restaurants in South Africa and has a string of impressive accolades on its apron!. The entire experience at this fine dining restaurant is magical. The Chef and his team pay close attention to each hand-selected ingredient in their various tasting menus.
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Set high above the Constantia wine valley, chef James Gaag’s La Colombe claimed the top spot on the list of South Africa’s best restaurants up from third place last year. The restaurant is known for its beautiful creations inspired by local ingredients and creatively presented.
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A meal at La Petite Colombe restaurant is like doing the tango with a stranger. You enter the dance floor uncertain of what to expect, and when the music stops at the end, you are left breathless and speechless. And when words are not enough, only a hearty applause will do.
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As of writing this blog, La Petite Colombe is currently number one of the top-rated restaurants in Franschhoek on TripAdvisor and we’re not surprised. As opposed to simply offering dinner service, this venue goes above and beyond to provide an experience like no other.
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La Petite Colombe is a true Franschhoek icon set in the farm environment of Leeu Estates. It boasts a world-renowned reputation for its exceptional fine dining experience. The extravagant tasting menu features innovative dishes presented with outstanding service.
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La Petite Colombe, a real diamond in the Franschhoek cuisine crown, remains one of the Cape's most sought dining experiences. Other notable restaurants to visit in Franschhoek are Le Chêne, Chefs Warehouse at Maison, The Deli at Boschendal, and Le Coin Français.
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This relaxed but refined space offers a theatrical dining experience of contemporary cuisine that fuses local ingredients with French flair in an upmarket vineyard restaurant. Tel: +27 (0)21 202 3395 Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek
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La Petite Colombe isn’t just a pretty place to eat and take Instagram-worthy photos. It is situated in the heart of Leeu Estates within its very own special venue. From here, you can dine while enjoying the majestic view of the mountains.
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Epice has moved diagonally across the road to where La Petite Colombe used to be, and is set to reopen at the end of November 2020. La Petite Colombe has moved to Leeu Estates. There too is Le chêne, which is French for “oak tree”.
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An offshoot of the famous La Colombe in Cape Town, La Petite Colombe promises an exceptional dining experience with innovative tasting menus. Expect beautifully presented dishes that highlight local flavours and culinary artistry.
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Restaurant times: Weekly, 12pm to 10pmMenu: La Petite Colombe Menu Cuisine: French-inspired Address: Leeu Estates, Dassenberg RdRating (Google reviews): 4.8 Contact: 021 202 3395 Make a booking: dineplan.com
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For fine dining La Petite Colombe is one of South Africa's top spots. We also love Boschendal's buzzing Friday Night Market where you can expect live music, fresh farm produce and artisan food stalls.
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This is a relative newcomer to Franschhoek and the little brother of the famed Constantia Nek “La Colombe”. It has been immediately recognized for its excellence and it is very worthwhile a visit.
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The restaurants to secure a spot on the Top 24 list were Babel at Babylonstoren, Foliage, Le Coin Français, La Petite Colombe, Protégé and The Werf Restaurant at Boschendal.
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Visitors to Franschhoek can now look forward to experiencing the same level of service excellence and exquisite cuisine that has put La Colombe on the map.
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Dine at world-class restaurants such as La Petite Colombe and Le Coin Français, where top chefs create masterpieces using locally sourced ingredients.
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And if it’s fine dining you’re searching for, look no further than La Petite Colombe, Tokara Restaurant or Rust en Vrede are some great options.
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Top restaurants include La Petite Colombe, Foliage, and The Tasting Room. Many of these establishments pair exquisite food with local wines.
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The sister restaurant to Constantia’s La Colombe, this exciting eatery is as aesthetically pleasing as it is from a food perspective.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit