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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.

Reviews (669)

4.6 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.7
Value 4.4
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Marc V. Dined: 1 day 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

  • Johan D. Dined: 3 days 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!

  • Heinrich G. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 11 May 25
    This is right at the top end of fine dining in SA. Beautiful, atmospheric decor and ambience, exceptional food, exceptional service.

    1
  • Lennon M. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    4.3
    Food 4.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
    1
  • Freda H. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Lindie B. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 05 May 25
    Where the focus is on the exquisiteness and perfection of the food, this is foodie heaven! Complimented by exceptional service and unpretentiousness, one of my top 3 favourite restaurants!

  • Stefan K. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 04 May 25
    What an experience!!! We travel to top restaurants and this one will not only be remembered ... but will see us again!

    1
  • Michelle P. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 02 May 25
    I truly enjoyed my dinner at Dusk. I am in from the States and was dining by myself and the entire team made it a truly memorable experience. They are attentive and kind. The food was fun and delicious. I would highly recommend their experience. I truly enjoyed speaking with Michael and Sam their Sommeliers they were very knowledgable passionate and not pretentious at all.

    Dusk responded on Sun 11 May 25:
    Dear Michelle Parrozzo Thank you once again for dining with us. We are grateful to hear that our team, especially the Sommeliers could create such a memorable experience for you after your lengthy journey to South Africa. We really appreciate that you have taken the time to share your experience on this platform. We look forward to seeing you when you head our way again... Team DUSK

  • Gary J. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    4.3
    Food 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Thu 01 May 25 (Guest left no comment)

    Dusk responded on Sat 10 May 25:
    Dear Gary Japhtes Thank you for dining with us. We really appreciate that you have taken the time to share your experience on this platform and we look forward to seeing you again... Team DUSK

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Opening Hours

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