Franschhoek restaurant lands on 2025's hot list of best restaurants
Chef Jan Hendrik van Der Westhuizen's JAN Franschhoek has been named one of the best new restaurants in the world on Condé Nast Traveller 's 2025 Hot List.
According to the publication, the 'Hot List', is a carefully curated annual collection of the best new (and reborn) hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships in the world.
From Paris to Miami, the list names the newest as well as the best culinary offerings from around the globe.
'In a dimly lit cottage on a wine estate in Franschhoek, shrouded by lavender, a very lavish meal commences. Conceptualised by South African chef Jan Hendrik van Der Westhuizen, the spread at Jan Franschhoek is modelled on a sumptuous South African family table feast. The experience (which started as a pop-up) begins in the grand manor house of La Motte wine estate, where chilled glasses of MCC and bites like biltong lamingtons are served. Then an old VW van shuttles diners across the road to a cosy 1900s house where diners gather around a long sharing table next to a roaring fireplace. ' Mary Holland shares for Condé Nast Traveller .
To begin, bread is served with butter that's been expertly carved to look like Mozart, followed by a few small plates. Finally, the main meal commences. During my visit, an abundance of platters were topped with lamb that fell off the bone, giant pies with crispy tops, and warming green beans. The experience is finished off with a visit to the kitchen, where hunks of local cheese have been laid out alongside preserves. These are best eaten with a cup of moerkoffie, a very, very strong coffee that will hit you like a punch in the face.' Holland also adds.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
5 hours ago
- IOL News
Experience the teachings of Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche during his first South African tour
Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche is a teacher, best-selling author, and the spiritual leader of the worldwide Tergar Meditation Community. Image: Supplied. Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, internationally acclaimed meditation teacher and bestselling author, will embark on his first full South African tour this August and September. The visit will bring the founder of the worldwide Tergar Meditation Community, which operates centres across six continents, to Cape Town and Johannesburg for a series of talks, courses, and retreats. What sets Rinpoche apart is his remarkable ability to make meditation accessible to everyone, regardless of background or beliefs. He is a bestselling author whose book The Joy of Living became a New York Times bestseller and has been translated into over 20 languages. His unique approach combines time-tested practices with cutting-edge neuroscience. Research conducted at the University of Wisconsin revealed extraordinary effects of his meditation techniques on brain function, with results featured in National Geographic and Time magazine. Most uniquely, his teachings weave together his own personal experiences, which include using meditation techniques to overcome panic attacks and a near-death experience during a wandering retreat, with modern scientific research. This combination creates practical tools for cultivating happiness and well-being in our fast-paced, stress-filled world. Rinpoche inspires millions by sharing evidence-based methods that require no religious background—just minutes of daily practice can lead to reduced anxiety, greater happiness, and improved focus in both personal and professional life. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche Image: Supplied. His works Joyful Wisdom and In Love with the World explore personal transformation, resilience, and his profound near-death experience. His acclaimed TED Talk demonstrates why meditation is easier than most people think. 'In my travels over the past 25 years, I have encountered many people and realize that the feeling of separation from ourselves and the world is merely a deceptive narrative created by our minds,' says Mingyur Rinpoche. 'In my lineage, we believe it is possible to transcend those beliefs, and when we love the world, the world loves us back. I am thrilled to be traveling to South Africa for the first time to share these ancient teachings, highlighting the recognition of our innate wellbeing, and how it connects us to our shared humanity. I look forward to meeting you all soon.' The events will take place from 27 August until 7 September. For more information visit Quicket.
The South African
6 hours ago
- The South African
Where to take dad this Father's Day in South Africa
This Father's Day, South Africans have a fantastic array of experience-rich getaways and activities to spoil Dad with something truly memorable. ADVERTISEMENT Forget the usual ties and mugs. This year, give him moments to savour, whether he's a sports fanatic, a bush adventurer. FATHER'S DAY, GAME DAY Treat Dad to game day at The St. Andrews Pub in Somerset West's Lord Charles Hotel, Tribute Portfolio. This South African Scottish-inspired pub has been lovingly refreshed, retaining its leather booths, warm wood accents, and trophies dating back to Gary Player's heyday. With big screens, craft beers, a fine whisky list, and nearby top golf courses, it's perfect for dads who love to swing, sip, and cheer. ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE WILD AT HEART DAD If Dad thrives in the great outdoors, the Protea Hotel by Marriott Polokwane Ranch Resort offers 1000 acres of bushveld adventure, according to Time Out. He can tackle thrilling South African 4×4 trails, enjoy golf, and go on game drives before winding down with a classic bushveld braai and a soak under the stars. FOR THE SUPER FAN DAD Football lovers will adore the Orlando Pirates-themed room at Protea Hotel Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge. Walls adorned with iconic imagery and memorabilia make it a dream stay. ADVERTISEMENT Plus, Cape Town's attractions and the V&A Waterfront are just minutes away. This is perfect for reliving the big plays and soaking in the atmosphere. FOR THE DAD WHO NEEDS A BREAK THIS FATHER'S DAY Some dads just want to relax. The Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers in Century City offers modern suites, panoramic views. Dad will get access to the award-winning Life Day Spa. Deep-tissue massages, sauna sessions, and a rooftop pool help Dad recharge in style. FATHER'S DAY FOR THE GIN GEEK At the Gin School in Protea Hotel Mossel Bay, Dad can distil his custom bottle, guided by local experts. ADVERTISEMENT This hands-on coastal experience blends calm with creativity — a refreshing way to celebrate Father's Day and escape to South African the coast. FOR THE LAID-BACK FOODIE Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge is a stylish yet relaxed spot for dads who prefer burgers over brunch. Known for gourmet burgers and indulgent milkshakes, it offers a sun-soaked escape near the beach, complete with a heated pool and cool cocktails. FOR THE WHISKEY LOVER In Sandton, The Bull Run at Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika offers a whisky and tapas pairing experience on 15 June. ADVERTISEMENT With a warm atmosphere and expertly selected pairings, it's ideal for dads who appreciate bold flavours and meaningful conversations. This is a fine alternative to the usual Sunday roast. MAKING MEMORIES THIS FATHER'S DAY Whether it's a wild ride through the bush, a handcrafted gin bottle, or the perfect pub seat for the big game, these experiences capture the spirit of celebration that South African dads deserve. So, this Father's Day, swap clichés for adventure, relaxation, and quality time. After all, the best gift is time well spent together. WHICH OF THESE FATHER'S DAY EXPERIENCES WOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR YOUR DAD? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. ADVERTISEMENT Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
eNCA
8 hours ago
- eNCA
SA short film wins gold at International Tourism Film Festival
VALLETTA, MALTA - A South African conservation film has won an award at the International Tourism Film Festival. WATCH | SA short film nominated for Oscar award The short film features 29-year-old shark attack survivor Caleb Swanepoel. It explores his emotional return to the ocean and swimming with sharks, after his life-changing experience in June 2015. Caleb Swanepoel, the film's star, says the survivor mindset helped him get to where he is now.
