Welcome to Country Grand: A Charming Country Café in the Heart of Franschhoek

Franschhoek has no shortage of breathtaking views, and Country Grand is proud to offer one of the very best. Nestled high on the mountainside overlooking the village, this delightful café is the newest addition to the esteemed Grand Collection. Located at Dieu Donné Vineyards, Country Grand brings a touch of casual elegance to the area, complete with a menu that is both accessible and indulgent. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely lunch accompanied by refreshing cocktails or a relaxing evening with a picturesque sunset, every corner of Country Grand offers an Instagram-worthy experience.

Savoring the Atmosphere

When I first arrive at the Country Grand entrance, I can’t help but be struck by its beauty. The grand flight of steps, framed by cascades of water, creates the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo. As I make my way to the restaurant, I’m immediately captivated by the stunning views of the valley. The floor to ceiling windows allow me to fully appreciate the natural beauty all around me.

Stepping inside, I’m momentarily torn between admiring the interior and gazing at the breathtaking scenery outside. The restaurant has transformed the vaulted brick wine-cellar-style space into a glamorous setting. A rococo bar, plush red velvet couches, and elegant candelabras create an atmosphere of opulence. To add a touch of romance, each table is adorned with a single red rose.

If you ask me, the real action happens when the sun is out and you step outside. That’s when the magic begins. Take a look at the gorgeous brick patio. It’s like a front-row seat to a stunning valley view. And to top it off, there are these huge café umbrellas providing shade over all the seating options. But let me tell you about the best spot – eight tables for two, right on the edge of the patio. You have an unobstructed view from there. Trust me, these tables are always in high demand, so it’s a good idea to reserve one in advance.

Now, let’s talk about the rest of the setup. From the patio, there are wooden steps that lead you to a gently sloping lawn. And guess what? There’s a deck too, covered in pretty fairy lights. It’s the perfect spot for a meal under the stars. And here’s the fun part – they’ve added a giant mirror ball, a funky red-lips bench, and even some comfy couches next to the vines. It’s all designed to give you that retro-chic vibe and provide some cool backdrops for your glam selfies.

A café experience like no other

At Grand Africa Café & Beach, we have a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for some delectable prawns tempura, flavorful new style salmon sashimi, or a succulent Chalmar beef fillet Béarnaise, we’ve got you covered. Our regular customers can vouch for the quality and taste of these time-tested favorites.

If you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can go for our giant Grand thin-based pizza or opt for our towering Wagyu burger. And if you’re looking to keep it on the healthier side, the green goddess salad is the perfect pick for you. And let’s not forget our pasta menu, where our prawn linguine and chicken and broccoli pappardelle are always crowd-pleasers.

For those seeking a romantic sunset dinner, we have just the thing for you. Our versatile menu offers a three-course feast that will truly elevate your dining experience. Start off with some exquisite oysters, followed by a mouthwatering Chalmar beef or a delightful linefish tagliata. Finish off on a sweet note with our luscious chocolate pot or a heavenly pink pavlova for dessert. As the stars start to twinkle above, the enchanting views will add an extra touch of magic to your evening.

Relax and enjoy your drinks

When I step into the palm-fronded bar and outdoor lounge, it’s hard not to be captivated by the breathtaking views that surround me. The place invites me to stay awhile after my meal, soaking in the scenery and savoring each sip from their extensive cocktail menu. It’s clear that this place was designed for those who want to indulge in style and make the most of every moment.

If I visit on the weekends, I’m in for a treat because they feature live music that adds to the luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to come for lunch and find yourself settling in for the afternoon, losing track of time as the melodies fill the air.

But even if I only have an hour or two to spare, I can still experience the magic of this place. Watching the sunset here is an unforgettable experience. As the sun goes down, the mountain views transform into a mesmerizing display of pink and purple hues, creating a scene that feels straight out of a dream.

Here’s something useful to know: Dieu Donné is conveniently located along the wine tram route. If wine tasting is on my list, I can easily include lunch at Country Grand without worrying about finding a designated driver. It’s the perfect way to combine indulgence and responsible planning.

Let me share some essential details with you. Country Grand is open from Monday to Sunday, from 11 am to 10 pm. If you want to get in touch, you can reach them at 021 569 9352 or email them at country@grandafrica.com. And when it comes to finding this hidden gem, head to Dieu Donné Vineyards on Uitkyk Street in Franschhoek.