The Vine Bistro: French Classics with a Modern Local Twist in Stellenbosch

Get ready to savor delicious food and enjoy breathtaking views at The Vine Bistro.

Located next to the Glenelly wine cellar, with a wide terrace that overlooks beautiful fynbos gardens and vineyards, The Vine Bistro is the perfect restaurant in the Winelands. Step into the elegant, contemporary space furnished with chairs from the 19th century and Parisian-style café tables. Here, two cultures come together harmoniously: Stellenbosch wine country surrounds you, while the food is a delightful fusion of traditional French cuisine and Chef Patron Christophe Dehosse’s culinary heritage. Dehosse and his talented team constantly create new menus of modern bistro classics, using the best seasonal ingredients.

A Taste of Today’s Menu

The Vine Bistro’s menu is like a special treasure map. It has five options per course, and each one is a delicious adventure waiting to happen. I love how they have all the classic dishes, like braised pork cheeks with braised fennel and Dijon mustard sauce. It’s like a warm and comforting hug on a cold winter’s day. And then there’s the bouillabaisse – a proper one – with rouille and croutons. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water.

But what really sets The Vine Bistro apart is their unique combinations with a local twist. Take their yellowfin tuna ceviche, for example. It’s not your ordinary ceviche. They’ve added wakame and spekboom salad to give it that extra special flavor. It’s like a taste of the ocean combined with the freshness of the local ingredients. It’s a winning combination that you won’t find anywhere else.

And let’s not forget about dessert. The Vine Bistro knows how to satisfy your sweet tooth. They have gâteau Royal with sauce Anglaise, which is a fancy way of saying it’s a heavenly chocolate cake with a rich creamy sauce. They also have a dark chocolate Marquise with orange compôte. It’s a match made in dessert heaven. And if you’re a fan of crème caramel, you’re in luck. The Vine Bistro serves up an irresistible version of this classic dessert.

Oh, and I can’t forget about their artisanal cheese board. It’s a cheese lover’s dream come true. They have a selection of both local and French cheeses that will make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

So, if you’re looking for a dining experience that combines classic dishes with a creative twist, The Vine Bistro is the place for you. They have something for everyone, from the traditionalist to the adventurer. Trust me, once you try their menu, you’ll be hooked.

In the winter months, when things calm down in the Winelands, I like to explore my French heritage by incorporating some beloved dishes that hold a special place in my heart. These iconic favorites are not only delicious but also evoke memories of meals enjoyed at home, menus from past jobs, and unforgettable dining experiences throughout the years.

Get excited for these amazing French dishes that will be added to our menu in the upcoming months of 2023. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s to come:

In May, we’ll be serving Jambon persillé, Cassoulet, and Paris-Brest. These dishes are sure to transport your taste buds to the heart of France.

June brings Soupe à l’oignon, Petit salé aux lentilles, and Baba au rhum. Warm up with the comforting flavors of French onion soup and indulge in the rich sweetness of Baba au rhum.

July is all about Oeuf meurette, Canard à l’orange with pommes gaufrettes, and Vanille Millefeuille. Prepare to be amazed by the combination of flavors and textures in these classic French dishes.

As we enter August, you can look forward to Cape line fish escabeche, Daube de boeuf with panisse, and Tarte au citron. The delicate balance of flavors in these dishes will leave you wanting more.

And finally, in September, we’ll be serving Salade de pommes de terre tiède et saucisse, Moules frites, and Ile flottante. These dishes highlight the simplicity and elegance of French cuisine.

With these exciting dishes coming your way, get ready to embark on a culinary journey through France. Whether you’re a fan of hearty stews or delicate pastries, our à la carte menu will have something to satisfy every palate.

In addition to these delicious dishes, we also have a selection of vintage wines that will perfectly complement your meal. Sip and savor the flavors of France as you dine in style.

Don’t miss out on these amazing culinary experiences. Join us as we celebrate the art of French cooking and indulge in a dining experience like no other.

Welcome to Glenelly Wine Estate, where you’ll discover an impressive winelist filled with a diverse range of our award-winning wines. Whether you’re a long-time wine connoisseur or new to the world of wine, our selection has something for everyone.

In addition to our own exceptional wines, we’ve carefully curated a collection from other esteemed South African and French estates. This includes some rare vintages from Château Pichon Longueville, owned by the esteemed French owner May de Lencquesaing.

If you’re yearning for a memorable meal that transports you to the heart of the French countryside, look no further. Our breathtaking views and terroir in Stellenbosch offer the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary dining experience.

Our bistro is open from Tuesday to Sunday, serving delectable meals between 12pm and 3pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, we extend our hours from 6:30pm to 8pm to accommodate your evening cravings.

For reservations and inquiries, please call us at 021 809 6444 or email us at bistro@glenelly.co.za. Our address is Glenelly Estate, located on Lelie Street in Ida’s Valley, Stellenbosch.