La Colombe is one of South Africas most iconic and internationally acclaimed fine dining establishments. Originally founded on the historic Constantia Uitsig wine estate, it relocated under new ownership to the picturesque Silvermist organic wine estate at the top of Constantia Nek, with breathtaking views overlooking the Constantia wine valley, False Bay and Hout Bay.
Chef Proprietor Scot Kirtons philosophy and approach lies in the fusion of Asian and French cuisine and the pursuit of excellence and perfection on each plate, resulting in numerous local and international awards.
The freshest seasonal produce, uncomplicated clean flavours and classical elegance are the essence of his inspiration and passion for food. Scots delivery of classic signature dishes and his endless array of sublime new inspirations form the mainstay of La Colombes Tasting Menu.
With impeccable service and an award-winning winelist, La Colombe is a truly unforgettable experience.
Nestling on the mountain in Silvermist Estate in Constantia, Cape
Town, this destination restaurant never disappoints. Deserving of
global accolades, it always flies the South African flag proudly.
True culinary expertise is presented in a multi-course menu dovetailed
with an impressive, local wine flight to ensure a legendary experience.
Chef James Gaag and his team know what to keep, and where to ring
the changes. Discerning diners come from all corners of the globe for
the notorious tin of tuna and blind wine tasting. Some dishes – like
the truffled cherry parfait, and the spicy langoustine and tom yum in
the passion fruit – may stay on the menu, and in your heart forever.
Traditional Cape spices and flavourants are expertly combined with
seasonal ingredients. The menu slowly slides to catch the best of what
is grown now and nearby.
That’s in the foreground – the familiarity elevated by table-side
fun – but in the background, there’s constant invention, therefore
an innovation lab being built on site. It’s evident in dishes like the
mandarin, Manjari and pistachio dessert, deceptively simple until
the filling is unveiled. It’s several culinary feats in one, showcasing
the mastery that is required for a discreet gastronomy show of this
stature. Each diverse and distinctive dish and its serving receptacle
is an act of the play, carefully conceptualized and choreographed. A
good example is the penultimate Silvermist honey course. It’s a trio of
delectable sweets made with honey from the estate. The frills, froths
and foams are tempered with exploratory flavours that sing loudly,
spicy dishes are juxtaposed with subtler tastes in others, providing a
journey that is never predictable.
The recently renovated entrance includes an eye-catching crockery
‘wall of fame’ depicting the history of dishes. Service is stellar in every
way, with passionate and knowledgeable staff who so apparently love
taking you on the magical gastronomic ride. No-one leaves empty handed, a gift given when leaving, to add to the indelible memories
made in a luxury meal. The inspiring vegetarian options are as enticing
as the signature menu. From the ‘dove’s nest’ to the final sweet
mouthful, every nuance and every bite ensures a once-in-a-lifetime
banquet worthy of a flight.