Aubergine

Cape Town, South Africa

Tucked away in Cape Town’s Gardens neighbourhood, Aubergine is quite the institution. Within the historic confines of a welcoming 200-year-old private house – complete with modern farmhouse styling and an inviting courtyard terrace – to dine here is akin to dining at a discerning friend’s home. If that friend happened to be at the top of their game when it comes to crafting timeless cuisine with modern edge, that is. Opened in 1996, it’s the magnum opus of chef-owner German chef Harald Bresselschmidt, who cut his teeth at the likes of London’s Savoy. Rooted in classic technique, his menu is a love letter to South Africa’s natural larder. But where things get interesting is how he artfully marries international flavour within such framework. The result is a colourful cuisine – fed by two organic kitchen gardens – running from à la carte and summer small-plate lunches to an ‘East Meets West’ degustation menu. From beef tartare with miso fermented egg and daikon to lamb with white bean purée, carrots and fennel and local fish with turmeric and saffron cucumber expect abundant flavour across the board. Due mindfulness has been given to the standout wine list that backs it all – a showcase of small producers, interesting champagnes and vintage South Africa bins.

Key Information

• Average price per person $38
• Tasting menu from $50
• Lunch: Thu – Fri, Dinner: Mon – Sat
• +27 21 465 0000
• Visit Aubergine's Website

Location

39 Barnet St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001