Mertia

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Some restaurants are just deeply and utterly in love with the art of dining, and Mertia is one of them. Housed in the former Standard Bank building, it’s a passion project run by founder Marais Kirsten-Uys and chef Matt van den Berg; taking its name from Kirsten-Uys’ beloved grandmother. Interiors are unabashedly romantic and atmospheric: ink-black walls, ethereal, modern chandeliers resembling glowing crumpled paper, flickering candlelight and a scattering of gold accents. This decadent feel extends to the tasting menus, with four or eight-course versions to choose from. With creations such as curried mince vetkoek with coriander and caraway, kimchi and crayfish, and a dessert of cherry, fig and amaretto on the horizon, those in the know plump for the latter. The nostalgic Mertia Snack Box is another highlight of the extended menu, getting meals off to a flavour-packed, colourful and playful start. As you’d expect from the Stellenbosch setting, wine pairings are a bona fide highlight, with notable standouts including an Iron Child pinot noir, and a viura from the Breedekloof Valley.

Key Information

• Tasting menu from $58
• Lunch: Fri – Sat Dinner: Mon – Sat
• 27 76 644 8448
• Visit Mertia's Website

Location

Bird Street, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, 7600