Franschhoek’s Eleven: A Culinary Evolution Elevating the Dining Experience

Franschhoek’s Eleven restaurant is taking its already impressive dining experience to new heights with the introduction of an exciting à la carte menu, in addition to its celebrated Chef’s Tasting menu. As a result, diners have greater freedom to craft their own culinary journey, ensuring a personalised and unforgettable visit to one of the region’s premier dining destinations.

Nestled on Huguenot Street, Eleven offers global contemporary cuisine within a chic, relaxed atmosphere. Since its opening in 2023, the restaurant has become a beloved fixture in the winelands, known for its exceptional cuisine and commitment to constant evolution.

“A great menu should never be static,” explains Eleven’s Ryan Shell. “It evolves with the seasons, the ingredients, and the palates of our guests. By refining and reinventing dishes, we maintain our high standards while offering diners the chance to explore new flavours and experiences.”

A hyper-seasonal approach, centered around sustainably sourced ingredients, remains at the heart of Eleven’s philosophy, connecting every aspect of the dining experience.

A Journey Begins with a Snack

Inspired by its prime location, Eleven has introduced a tempting snack menu. The restaurant’s corner spot, complete with balconies and expansive windows, provides the perfect setting for relaxed dining and people-watching. These light bites – small, exquisite dishes designed to be savoured with a glass of wine – make a delightful addition.

The snack menu features delights such as fresh oysters with apple, nuac cham foam, coriander, and puffed rice; fish croquettes with curry mayonnaise; kimchi tartlets with sweet and sour gel; and dainty duck liver tacos with the most delicate stone fruit gel.

Starters can be enjoyed as part of the snack selection or as a prelude to a larger meal. Explore global flavours with dishes like mozzarella with basil, confit tomato, balsamic, and pumpkin seed; salmon ceviche with gazpacho, jalapeno, radish, and summer herbs; or aged beef tartare with chilli mayo, capers, a rice cracker, and peanut.

The main courses offer equal diversity and intrigue, featuring dishes such as pork agnolotti with lemon cream, pancetta, sage, and beurre noisette; and pan-seared yellowtail with tarragon, caponata, and a micro salad.

A selection of sides, including a proper risotto, pomme puree butter, or cauliflower cheese, allows for further customisation.

Desserts are a highlight, showcasing the team’s dedication to precision and care. Conclude your meal with a chocolate malt crème with coffee ice cream, sponge, meringue, and vanilla, or a trio of cheeses.

The Tasting Menu: The Essence of Eleven

“Eleven has always been about showcasing our skills and experience,” says Ryan. “In that sense, the tasting menu is the very soul of the restaurant’s kitchen.”

Many of the à la carte dishes are also featured on the tasting menu, which, with its optional wine pairing, offers a curated experience showcasing the kitchen’s pinnacle creations. It’s the perfect opportunity for guests to relax and indulge.

The wine list predominantly features selections from leading Franschhoek producers, chosen with the same care, diversity, and focus as the food.

To experience Eleven, make a reservation via email at reservations@eleveneats.co.za. Eleven is located at 11 Huguenot Road. Contact them at 021 023 3755 or through their website, www.eleventeats.co.za. Opening hours are 12pm to 2:30pm (last seating) for lunch and 6pm to 9pm (last seating) for dinner. Follow their journey on Facebook at @eleveneats and on Instagram at @eleven_restaurant