Welcome to De Eetkamer: Flavorful Small Plates in Stellenbosch

Since April 2022, when chef Marco Cardoso opened the doors of De Eetkamer in Stellenbosch, this local gem has become the talk of the town. Nestled in a beautifully refurbished old stable near Stellenbosch’s Moederkerk, this charming restaurant buzzes with a warm and friendly atmosphere, drawing in a lively crowd who can’t resist the delicious small plates.

Every dish that comes out of Marco’s kitchen showcases his incredible talent, finesse, and unique style. The flavors are bold, the aromas are enticing, and the presentation is refreshingly unpretentious. Marco shares, “I wanted to create a place where everyone feels welcome, and can savor simple, honest, and truly delicious food in a joyful atmosphere.”

A Global Culinary Adventure

When it comes to Marco’s menu, I can say it’s always changing. It’s like traveling around the world without ever leaving your seat. From Japan to Korea, Peru to Morocco, and the Mediterranean, there’s a taste to suit every palate. And the best part? You don’t have to commit to a full meal. Just pick a couple of dishes, pour yourself a glass of wine (trust me, their wine list is fantastic), and enjoy a light lunch. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, take your time and savor a variety of dishes over multiple courses.

There’s one dish that stands out from the rest and has become a crowd favorite – the Korean fried cauliflower. It’s a true masterpiece that never leaves the menu, and for good reason! When you take a bite, you’re immediately greeted with a satisfying crunch. But that’s just the beginning. Inside, you’ll discover a moist and flavorful vegetable that’s impossible to resist. The sweet and salty sauce adds an addictive element to each bite, while a charred lime on the side brings a burst of tanginess when squeezed over the cauliflower. It’s a combination that will leave you craving more.

Let me tell you about Marco. He’s an incredibly creative chef who loves to experiment with fresh, seasonal ingredients. His dishes are out of this world! You’ve got to try his ricotta gnocchi with herb pesto and walnuts, or his mouthwatering preserved lemon risotto. And don’t even get me started on his deep-fried artichokes with paprika aioli. Yum! Oh, and have you ever tasted Peruvian chicken and flatbread with green chili and coriander? It’s a flavor explosion!

Did someone say dessert?

Now, the desserts at Marco’s place are heavenly. If you’re a chocoholic like me, you’ll be in heaven with his chocolate ganache with Oreos and pecan nuts. It’s rich, decadent, and oh so satisfying. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, give the sea salt caramel crème brûlée a go. Trust me, it’s amazing!

You simply can’t just visit De Eetkamer once. It’s a hidden gem in Stellenbosch that you’ll want to keep returning to. The atmosphere is so welcoming and the food is top-notch.

Here are some things you should know:

• The restaurant has a beautiful courtyard where you can enjoy lazy lunches or have a romantic dinner under the stars.
• They are open from Tuesday to Saturday, with lunch service from 12pm to 3pm and dinner service from 5:30pm to 9pm.
• If you want to make a reservation, you can reach them at 021 001 8308 or reservations@de-eetkamer.co.za
• The restaurant is located at 3 Drostdy Road in Stellenbosch.