Eleven Restaurant: Fresh, Small-Plate Flair in Franschhoek

There’s a new restaurant in Franschhoek that’s making waves and delighting taste buds. It’s called Eleven, and it’s the brainchild of chef-proprietor Ryan Shell. This is Ryan’s third eatery in the town, and it’s already attracting a loyal following. Located in the sought-after Heritage Square, Eleven joins the ranks of Ryan’s other successful ventures, Ōku and Yama Asian Eatery.

While Ōku and Yama draw inspiration from Asian cuisine, Eleven looks beyond borders for its culinary creativity. Ryan and his team take pride in sourcing local ingredients and wines from the immediate surroundings, giving their dishes a unique and vibrant flavor. Heading up the kitchen is Pieter du Preez, a local talent who has trained at esteemed establishments like Chefs Warehouse at Maison, La Petite Colombe, and Leeu Estates. Pieter is dedicated to the art of cooking and believes in letting the quality of the ingredients speak for themselves.

A Culinary Adventure for the Senses

When you come to dine at our restaurant, you’ll be treated to a unique culinary experience. Our concise but diverse seasonal set menu offers four courses, each with three options to choose from. These small plates will take your taste buds on a delightful journey through a fusion of flavors.

Every dish is expertly prepared and presented to perfection. As soon as your plate arrives, you’ll be captivated by the bursts of color, which not only look stunning but also signify the freshness and vibrancy you can expect to taste.

Our menu is ever-changing, so you can always look forward to new and exciting options. Imagine starting your meal with a refreshing tuna ceviche, accompanied by creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and crispy kataifi. Or perhaps you’d prefer to indulge in our smoked springbok tartare, embellished with sweet raisins and tangy capers.

For a mouthwatering pasta dish, our prawn tortellini is the perfect choice. The combination of succulent prawns, smoky bacon, fresh peas, and fragrant basil creates a symphony of flavors. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, our Angus steak with creamy mustard mash and aromatic buchu jus is a true delight.

And don’t forget about dessert! Treat yourself to a refreshing minty hot-chocolate cremeaux or a delectable citrus cheesecake. Alternatively, indulge in the unique combination of truffled goat’s cheese and earthy beetroot, perfectly balanced on a bed of walnut soil. If you’re a fan of cheese, our Dalewood brie mousse with hints of rose and peach will be an absolute delight.

If you can’t decide what to order from the set menu, go for the eleven-course tasting menu. Along with a thoughtful selection of local, small-batch, and organic wines, they also offer a menu of creative non-alcoholic cocktails and drinks.

Crafted with care

The restaurant’s elegant space features wooden beams, exposed brick walls, and a simple, neutral color scheme that allows the food to take center stage. With an open kitchen, a cozy bar area, a fireplace for colder weather, and a beautiful verandah that’s perfect for summer, every aspect of the restaurant enhances the dining experience.

I want to share with you the incredible attention to detail that elevates the dining experience at this restaurant. It’s the little things that make a big difference, like the beautifully crafted tables and chairs made with care and skill. And let’s not forget the waitstaff, who wear stylish leather aprons that add a touch of sophistication to the atmosphere. But it doesn’t stop there; even the table decor is thoughtfully considered, with a simple cactus centerpiece and a sprig of herbs on your napkin. The aroma of the herbs lingers on your hands, enhancing your meal with an extra sensory delight.

The name of the restaurant is a clever play on words. It references both the street address and the mystical symbolism associated with the number 11. It’s a number that signifies perfection and excellence, and that’s exactly what you can expect from your dining experience here – nothing less than a perfect 11 out of 10.

When can you visit? The restaurant is open every day, from Monday to Sunday, for lunch and dinner. You can enjoy their delicious cuisine between the hours of 12pm and 3pm, as well as 6pm and 11pm.

What does it cost? The restaurant offers different pricing options to suit your preferences. You can choose from a 3-course menu for R550, or if you have a sweet tooth, you can opt for the 3-course menu with dessert included for R660. For those looking for an even more indulgent experience, there is a tasting menu available for R990. If you’d like to pair your meal with wine, they offer a wine-pairing option for R800.

How can you make a reservation? To reserve your table, you can contact the restaurant at 021 023 3755 or send an email to reservations@eleveneats.co.za. They will be happy to assist you.

Where is it located? You can find this hidden gem at 11 Huguenot Street in the charming town of Franschhoek.