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Dusk

Contemporary Fine Dining
Location Pointer 43 Plein St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
4.7
(677 reviews)
RRR
Menu
Favourite

Attributes

  • Romantic
  • Gourmet Guide Plated

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Menu
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An intimate and immersive fine dining experience in the heart of Stellenbosch, conceptualised by Chefs Darren Badenhorst & Callan Austin.

Since opening in September 2022, our vision has been to create a space where culinary boundaries are pushed, and creativity thrives. With Callan at the helm, Dusk delivers a multi-course tasting menu that blends innovation, storytelling, and flavour. Complemented by a world-class wine list and thoughtfully curated beverage pairings, we invite our guests to embark on a memorable journey through modern gastronomy.

Seasonality and locality are at the heart of everything we do. Our menu is a carefully curated expression of bold flavors, innovative techniques, and thoughtful craftsmanship. With a focus on fermentation and preservation, we create layers of depth and complexity—from house-made misos and garums to delicate lacto-ferments, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses. Each element is designed to highlight the finest ingredients sourced from local producers, ensuring a dining experience that is both refined and memorable

More than just a restaurant, Dusk reflects Chef’s Callan and Darren’s values and vision—a space where creativity, collaboration, and mental well-being are celebrated. We are committed to fostering a positive work culture for our team and creating an atmosphere where guests can connect, share, and savor unforgettable moments. Through our dedication to sustainability, hospitality, and innovation, we aim to redefine modern fine dining while staying true to our roots and passion for exceptional food.

Gourmet Guide Description

Hidden in Stellenbosch’s bustling Plein Street, a sophisticated epicurean crusade awaits 30 diners after dark. At their vibey Nocturne bar next door, you can savour a classic welcome cocktail – and maybe head back for more after dining at DUSK. You’ll want the adventure to last forever…

Light is centred discreetly on a white-clad table. The dark, intimate interior is the perfect backdrop for DUSK’s concept of all-encompassing, experimental dining. It’s a result of the expansive minds of restaurateur Darren Badenhorst and executive chef Callan Austin. Callan has channeled his technical expertise into creating exceptional dishes in the 16-course epicurean tasting menu (the odyssey menu is six courses with choices), divided into a prelude, interlude and epilogue.

From the start, the amuse bouche of three bite-sized creations reveals evidence of an alchemist at work with premium ingredients. An ultimate treat of perfectly pan-fried Scottish scallop with cauliflower, raisin, and blue cheese butter tortellini is a coup. It’s married with a black garlic emulsion, a delicate Parma ham and cauliflower floss, aerated lemon hollandaise, local KZN winter truffle, and caviar from Madagascar.

Opening Hours

  • Monday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Tuesday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Wednesday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Thursday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Friday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Saturday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Sunday 18h00 - 20h00

Reviews (677)

4.7 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.7
Value 4.4
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Seba M. Dined: 1 day ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Wolfgang J. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 07 Jun 25
    We went for the first time to Dusk, it was an outstanding experience! We recommend to choose the wine pairing as well. Our somelier George's choice of wines was perfect to complement the excellent food! Will definitely come back.

    Dusk responded on Sun 08 Jun 25:
    Good day Wolfgang, and thank you for the lovely review. We look forward to hosting you in the future.

  • Mr & Mrs L. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Marcel G. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 26 May 25
    Fine dining in a wonderful atmosphere - we enjoyed our dinner very much.

  • Miriam C. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Peter M. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Hubert H. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Marc V. Dined: 4 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 18 May 25
    Perfect service, lovely tastes, best in Stellenbosch

    Dusk responded on Tue 27 May 25:
    Dear Marc Van Uytvanck Thank you for dining with us and taking the time to share your experience on this platform. We are honoured to be referred to as the best in Stellenbosch as here are many fantastic restaurants. We look forward to seeing you in the near future... Team DUSK

  • Johan D. Dined: 1 month ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 16 May 25
    Unforgettable experience. A symphony of flavours!

    Dusk responded on Tue 27 May 25:
    Dear Mr. Dirkse Van Schalkwyk Thank you for dining with us at DAWN by DUSK. We really appreciate that you have taken the time to share your experience on this platform and look forward to seeing you again soon... Team DUSK

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