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Le coin Francais

Fine Dining French
Location Pointer 17 Huguenot St, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
4.5
(682 reviews)
RRR
Favourite

Attributes

  • Outdoor Seating
  • Gourmet Guide Plated

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Favourite

The newest edition to the Franschhoek scene is a restaurant really and truly for Franschhoek. Both in concept and in name, the aptly named “Le coin Francais” , which literally means Franschhoek, will embody the essence of the valley in heritage, cuisine, art and wine. It will feature cutting edge methods meeting time tested French elegance in cuisine, a carefully selected locally themed wine list to showcase the best local wines, a French sommeliers selection, and an ever evolving collaboration of art in the theme of photography.

Gourmet Guide™ Description

Here is a fine-dining establishment that has become an institution on Franschhoek’s main road. It’s where locals celebrate and visitors are introduced to the heritage of the French Huguenots. The intimate space, with fewer than 30 seats, offers a cosy and romantic atmosphere with a roaring fire in winter and verandah seating in summer. French music playing in the background gives it an almost Parisian café feel, but the comparison ends there. Sophisticated, first-class fine dining is the order of the day.

Chef Darren Badenhorst’s first restaurant remains his ‘baby’, but head chef Miguel de Caries holding the fort has the space to express himself. Food seems simple but is complex, well-executed, and artfully plated. Wines are flawlessly paired with dishes and confidence. A playful touch includes palate cleansers where diners identify wine in black glasses and inventive twists on classic cocktails. Friendly and genuine hospitality is offered by Ephraim Gomani, the front-of-house manager who has been with the restaurant for over seven years.

One popular starter is the veal tartare, presented in two ways. It combines finely chopped venison with layers of venison carpaccio and is impeccably paired with two different Pinot Noirs – one from Hemel-en-Aarde and the other from Elgin. Another notable dish is the duck, an underrated ingredient that shines with thoughtful texture and flavour. It gets glowing reviews, deservedly so.

Opening Hours

  • Monday CLOSED
  • Tuesday 19h00 - 20h30
  • Wednesday 19h00 - 20h30
  • Thursday 12h00 - 14h00, 19h00 - 20h30
  • Friday 12h00 - 14h00, 19h00 - 20h30
  • Saturday 12h00 - 14h00, 19h00 - 20h30
  • Sunday 12h00 - 14h00, 19h00 - 20h30

Reviews (682)

4.5 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.5
Value 4.2
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.5
  • Marc L. Dined: 5 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Jeff B. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 20 Aug 25
    Oh my dear goodness. We were 2 travellers from the UK visiting the winelands and the garden route. How fortunate we were to book this incredible dining option before we came here. It was without doubt one of my fondest dining experiences, the hosts were incredible, the food was some of the best if not, the best I have tasted. I could tell you about each course but I won’t bore you. Just go, you will not be disappointed. Truly amazing, thank you all for our experience.

  • Natalie Hovelmeier Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 18 Aug 25
    An absolutely amazing experience on my husbands 50th birthday. Everything from the welcome service and of course the outstanding menu created unforgettable memories! Thank you to the entire team for an incredible experience! Derek and Natalie

  • Karen F. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 17 Aug 25
    Service was excellent, food presentation was outstanding, and the wood burning fireplace added a nice touch.

  • Roland Munro Dined: 1 week ago
    4.3
    Food 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 15 Aug 25
    A great culinary experience...attentive staff, all made for a great evening to be remembered.

  • Steven H. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Tue 05 Aug 25
    It has been a while since we last ate here and it was wonderful to see how the standards have been maintained. The Set Menu format may not suit all but the portions provided are good and the additional elements like the amuse bouche make it an experience. We look forward to visiting again where service levels are exceptional. The true test was that one guest was NOT able to eat the main course and an alternative was willingly offered!

  • Chris A. Dined: 1 month ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Paul K. Dined: 1 month ago
    4.3
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Amanda C. Dined: 2 months ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 18 Jun 25
    Amazing food, wonderful service. Always on my list when I come to the Cape!

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