Welcome to Ōku: A Tranquil Asian Dining Experience in Franschhoek

When you think of Franschhoek, you probably think of fine dining. But what about Asian cuisine? Well, that’s where Ōku comes in. This hidden gem opened its doors in late 2020, bringing the flavors of Asia to this charming South African town. With their beautifully crafted kaiseki and à la carte menus, Ōku quickly became the go-to spot for locals, fulfilling their cravings for bao buns and dim sum right in their own backyard.

Located at the top of the village high street, Ōku boasts a serene and minimalist atmosphere that instantly transports you to a state of tranquility. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a simple and elegant decor, including bonsai trees and captivating artworks. The natural wood floors and thoughtfully spaced tables create a sense of openness and invite you to leave all your worries behind, embracing the art of savoring exquisite food.

Experience the Elegance of Kaiseki Fine Dining

If you’re in the mood for an unforgettable dining experience filled with bold flavors and delectable dishes, then the 11-course kaiseki adventure is a must-try. It’s like a fine-dining checklist in Franschhoek. First, you’ll sample Japanese milk bread, tuna tataki, prawn toast, and a hot-and-sour broth. Next up are gyoza and bao buns, followed by mouthwatering meat dishes like salmon with udon and smoked pork belly. The menus are constantly changing to showcase the freshest local ingredients – they switch every two weeks, so there’s always something new to savor.

And if you’re looking for a slightly shorter but still incredible experience, you can opt for the 4-course menu. It offers choices for each course and even allows you to add a mouthwatering dessert.

As for the prices, the kaiseki menu costs R1,150, and if you want to complement your meal with perfectly paired wines, it will be R1,950. If you go for the 4-course menu, it’s priced at a tempting R690.

À la carte lunches

When it’s lunchtime, the menu changes to a more relaxed style, giving you the freedom to choose your own selection of small plates to enjoy together. You’ll find a variety of delicious options, such as lamb belly bao with white cabbage kimchi, Korean fried cauliflower, chicken wonton broth, and yellowtail tataki. These are just a few examples of the amazing dishes you can savor. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! The Japanese cheesecake is a must-try, but if you’re in the mood for something different, the shābetto, a traditional frozen dessert, is also a delightful choice.

Here’s a tip: If you prefer outdoor dining, you’ll love the tables on the serene Heritage Square. They’re perfect for enjoying meals in the open air or having a refreshing drink before dinner during the summer.

Discover a world of drinks

When you step into Ōku, you’ll discover a wine list that celebrates local flavors. We’ve recently expanded our selection to include wines from smaller local wineries, both for pairing with our kaiseki menu and by the bottle. And if you’re not in the mood for wine, we also offer a short selection of fine sakes and cocktails that are designed to perfectly complement our food.

Ōku is more than just a restaurant; it’s a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be treated to an extraordinary dining experience that will truly nourish your soul. And when you’re craving gyoza, don’t hesitate to make the beautiful drive to Franschhoek; we’ll be here, ready to satisfy your appetite.

Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm; 6pm – 9pm
Contact: 021 023 4695, reservations@eat-oku.co.za
Where to find us: Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek