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DUSK is one of South Africa’s most celebrated fine dining restaurants. Since becoming eligible, it has earned Eat Out’s highest accolade — 3 stars — every year, and was named Best New Restaurant in its debut. The restaurant has also received three stars at the LUXE Awards, two plates from the JHP Gourmet Guide, and has been featured on the global Best Chef Awards.
Chef Callan Austin leads with a bold and creative culinary vision. His menus are built around storytelling — nostalgic memories from his childhood, subtle social and political commentary, and a sense of mischief that adds charm and depth. While inventive, the food is always rooted in bold, expressive flavour.

DUSK offers two seasonal tasting menus: the Epicurean Menu, a full expression of the restaurant’s philosophy, and the Odyssey Menu, a more concise and approachable offering. The Odyssey Menu also adapts to seasonal periods, allowing new guests to experience DUSK at a more accessible price point without compromising on quality.

Service at DUSK is refined but refreshingly human. Staff are encouraged to engage authentically, creating a warm, unpretentious atmosphere that breaks from the formality often associated with fine dining.

The wine and beverage programme, led by Head Sommelier George Young — recently named South Africa’s Best Young Sommelier — is built around guest experience. Whether a newcomer or seasoned enthusiast, each guest is guided toward a beverage journey tailored to their tastes.

Adjacent to the main dining room is DAWN, DUSK’s private dining space. Recently renovated, it’s perfect for intimate celebrations, business events, and exclusive gatherings. Menus and pairings can be fully tailored, offering guests a bespoke experience in a refined setting.

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 CLOSED
  • Tuesday 18h00 - 20h00
  • Wednesday 18h00 - 20h00
  • Thursday 18h00 - 20h00
  • Friday 18h00 - 20h00
  • Saturday 18h00 - 20h00
  • Sunday CLOSED

Reviews (743)

4.6 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.6
Value 4.4
Service 4.7
Ambience 4.6
  • Richard S. Dined: 3 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 16 Nov 25
    Great experiance. Very creative on a high level. It was absolutly delicious. Highly recommended.

    Dusk responded on Mon 17 Nov 25:
    Thank you so much for the lovely feedback! We're thrilled you enjoyed the creativity. Hope to see you again soon!

  • Ivana M. Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 16 Nov 25
    Wonderful Restaurant! The experience was exceptional, the food amazing! Service 12/10!

    Dusk responded on Mon 17 Nov 25:
    We really appreciate your kind words! So glad you had a delicious, memorable experience. Looking forward to welcoming you back!

  • Alan M. Dined: 6 days ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 12 Nov 25
    A wonderful evening with amazing staff who looked after us extremely well. The food was simply wonderful, and I wouldn't hesitate recommending Dusk to anyone.

    Dusk responded on Wed 12 Nov 25:
    Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback Alan! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed your evening with us and that our team made you feel well taken care of. Your kind words mean a lot — we truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to Dusk again soon!

  • Keneilwe M. Dined: 6 days ago
    4.5
    Food 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Matebeta M. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 09 Nov 25
    An experience I’d do over and over again. I loved every moment.

    Dusk responded on Sun 09 Nov 25:
    It was a pleasure having you dine with us. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the experience!

  • Hermann L. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.5
    Food 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 09 Nov 25
    What a special evening. Best service and attention with such a variety of food.

    Dusk responded on Sun 09 Nov 25:
    Thank you for joining us — we’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed your evening.

  • Manfred B. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Darshan D. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Alexander G. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 08 Nov 25
    What an exceptional dining experience! Dusk delivers not only with its beautifully curated atmosphere and innovative cuisine but also with the warmth and passion of its team. The food was absolutely outstanding — every course was creative, balanced, and bursting with flavor. A special highlight of the evening was the wine pairing. Sommelier George elevated the experience with his deep knowledge, enthusiasm, and infectious passion for boutique wines. His ability to link each dish to the perfect wine was truly impressive, transforming the dinner into a memorable journey of taste and discovery. Our waiter Siya also deserves special mention for his impeccable service and genuine enthusiasm for the food he served. His explanations added a personal touch that made each course even more enjoyable. Overall, Dusk is a rare gem where atmosphere, food, and service come together in perfect harmony — a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining and authentic hospitality.

    Dusk responded on Sat 08 Nov 25:
    Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We’re delighted to hear that your experience at Dusk was so memorable. Our team takes great pride in crafting not just a meal, but a full sensory journey — and it’s heartwarming to know that George’s wine pairings and Siya’s service made such an impression. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with them and the rest of the team. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back soon for another unforgettable evening at Dusk.

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