Discovering Cape Town with Luke Dale-Roberts

When it comes to vibrant cities, Cape Town sits right at the top of the list. With its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine, it’s no wonder why this South African gem has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.

As a renowned chef and lover of all things Cape Town, I can’t help but sing praises for this extraordinary city. From the moment you set foot in Cape Town, you’re greeted with a sense of wonder and awe. The magnificent Table Mountain looms in the background, casting its majestic shadow over the bustling streets below.

The city’s diverse neighborhoods offer a kaleidoscope of experiences. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, where you’ll find brightly painted houses and the tantalizing aroma of Cape Malay cuisine. Or explore the hipster haven of Woodstock, with its trendy coffee shops, art galleries, and vibrant street art.

And let’s not forget about the food. Cape Town is a gastronomic wonderland, bursting with flavors and culinary delights. From traditional African dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, the city’s dining scene is a treat for the taste buds. As an added bonus, Cape Town’s abundance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures that every meal is a feast for the senses.

When it comes to natural beauty, Cape Town is truly in a league of its own. The city is blessed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. In addition to Table Mountain, there’s the stunning Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet in a dramatic clash of waves. And let’s not forget about the iconic penguins of Boulders Beach, who never fail to bring a smile to your face.

But Cape Town isn’t just about scenic beauty and delicious food. The city also has a rich history and vibrant culture that’s waiting to be explored. Visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, and learn about the struggles and triumphs of the South African people. Or immerse yourself in the local music scene and experience the soul-stirring sounds of jazz and African rhythms.

So, whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, a history buff, or simply in search of adventure, Cape Town has it all. This extraordinary city will captivate your heart and leave you yearning for more. Come and experience the magic of Cape Town for yourself – you won’t be disappointed.

Hey there! Let me tell you a bit about myself. My name is Luke Dale-Roberts, and I’m a self-taught chef who’s had the privilege of owning and running some incredible restaurants like The Test Kitchen and The Pot Luck Club. I thought it’d be fun to share a little glimpse into my life and what I love about living in Cape Town.

You know, I was actually born and raised in this cozy little village called Punnetts Town in East Sussex. My parents still live there, and it holds a very special place in my heart. But back in 2006, my wife and I made the leap and moved to this breathtaking city called Cape Town. You won’t believe it, but before that, we spent about four-and-a-half years living in Asia. Talk about an adventure!

Now, when it comes to Cape Town, let me tell you, there’s just so much to love. Seriously, where do I even begin? From the moment I wake up, I’m surrounded by incredible natural beauty – the sparkling ocean, lush forests, and majestic mountains. It’s like living in a dream. And don’t even get me started on the wine and food scene. Let’s just say Cape Town knows how to satisfy a hungry tummy.

But you know what really makes this place special? It’s the people. The folks here are some of the friendliest and warmest individuals you’ll ever meet. There’s this sense of community and genuine kindness that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s what makes Cape Town feel like home.

Whether I’m indulging in a lazy Sunday or trying out new recipes in the kitchen, Cape Town is the perfect backdrop for it all. So if you ever get the chance, I highly recommend visiting this incredible city. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Whenever I have visitors in town, I always make sure to take them to Cape Point Vineyards. It’s a hidden gem that I absolutely adore. The best part? It’s just a short drive away! Once we’re there, I can’t resist ordering their incredible sauvignon blanc. It’s the perfect way to start our adventure.

For a fancy and unforgettable dinner, I love taking my guests to some of the finest restaurants in Stellenbosch. George Jardine’s place is always a top choice, along with Jordan, Overture, or Rust en Vrede. These establishments serve up exquisite dishes that leave a lasting impression.

When we want to stay in town, I know exactly where to go. The Greenhouse at The Cellars-Hohenort, 95 Keerom, and Carne SA are my go-to spots for a memorable dining experience.

I recently experienced a culinary delight at Liam Tomlin’s Chefs Warehouse and Canteen. The lunch I had there was nothing short of fantastic. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and incredible flavors. It was an experience I won’t soon forget.

There’s one event in Cape Town that I’ve been dying to attend, but haven’t had the chance yet: Design Indaba. Every year, I tell myself I’ll go, but something always seems to come up. But mark my words, one day I’ll be there to soak up all the creative inspiration.

My family and I recently had a wonderful weekend getaway. We decided to visit Elgin and stayed at the charming Wildekrans Country House. This historic Cape Dutch manor provided the perfect backdrop for some much-needed relaxation. During our stay, we had the pleasure of dining at The Pool Room at Oak Valley wine estate, which was a delightful experience. Another destination that has caught my interest is Wellington. Its peaceful atmosphere is quite appealing to me.

There are still countless places I yearn to discover in the Cape. One spot that has captured my attention is Elands Bay. The guys at my workplace are planning a surf trip there in October, and I’m incredibly enthusiastic about joining them. I also have a keen desire to explore the West Coast extensively, all the way up to Namibia. The breathtaking beauty of the region truly calls to me. Without a doubt, there is an abundance of activities and sights waiting to be explored.

Hands down, Espresso Lab Microroasters has the best coffee in town. You can find it right across from The Test Kitchen, and believe me, it’s worth the trip. Every time I visit, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, enticing me to indulge in a cup of pure bliss.

Tokai Forest is one of my favorite places to go for a walk. The serene atmosphere and lush greenery make it an ideal spot to connect with nature. Whenever I take my son there, we explore the winding trails, observing the wildlife and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. It truly is a source of inspiration for me.

Looking for a special wine to celebrate a memorable occasion? Look no further than Vriesenhof Kallista. This exceptional red wine never fails to impress. I recently tried the 82 and 94 vintages, and they left me speechless. The depth of flavor and complexity of each sip transported me to a realm of pure delight.

I just finished creating a delightful selection of petits fours. To make them truly unique, I decided to incorporate some unconventional elements. Using nickel-plated barbed wire as a base, I adorned it with delicate lime-zest and rose-petal cotton candy. Inside the candy shell, you’ll find marshmallows infused with the rich flavors of smoky burnt aubergine and nutty sesame. It’s like taking the classic roasted marshmallow concept to a whole new level.

On Sundays, I love to kick back and relax at home with my family. The morning is perfect for playing ball in our backyard with my son, enjoying some quality time together. After that, we like to venture out and find a nice spot for lunch…

The Banting diet has really made a big impact on many people’s lives, and I think that’s fantastic. However, it does bother me a bit when individuals come to The Test Kitchen, expecting a lavish six-course meal, and then request that everything be made without sugar or starch. We often ask them, “Is this due to an allergy or just a preference?” You see, if we remove sugar from every dish, it really affects the overall taste experience. I also believe that it’s important to indulge in carbs once in a while – being too extreme can actually be harmful to your well-being.

Every truly exceptional chef must possess certain qualities. Firstly, they need to be incredibly hardworking, constantly pouring their heart and soul into their craft. Attention to detail is also key – they have a knack for noticing even the tiniest nuances and making sure everything is just right. And of course, a touch of obsession can be a healthy thing, pushing them to always strive for perfection.