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The Chefs Table

Contemporary International
4.8 RRR
Menu
Favourite

Attributes

  • Romantic
  • Gourmet Guide Plated
  • Reviewers' Choice 2025 - Top 100

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Menu
Favourite

Executive Chef Mathew Armbruster and his brigade of 12 qualified chefs have crafted their menu around fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. The dishes are inspired by what is readily available on the day. Fresh produce from local, organic farmers arrives in the morning and the dishes are tweaked and arranged accordingly. The menu changes slightly every day and each season will see different ingredients and new dishes to enjoy.

The open plan kitchen is at the heart of the restaurant - for the theatre of it but also for the chefs, to stay connected to the energy of the diners. Watch the chefs at work and feel the connection to the food and the beautifully plated dishes being prepared.

Gourmet Guide™ Description

Taking pride of place in Durban’s foodie scene, this restaurant in Umhlanga Rocks is a firm favourite among those who love tasty, seasonal dishes. Many of the offerings reflect the coastal setting, while others showcase produce sourced from the nearby KZN Midlands. It’s always local and sustainable. The contemporary 150-seater establishment is spacious, with the dramatic Tretchikoff mural the focal point…until you see the plates coming out of the open kitchen.

Both the set and à la carte menus may differ slightly on the day, as the team constantly strives for freshness, seasonality, and authenticity. The recent addition of a wood-burning oven has excited the kitchen team. Catering to dietary restrictions with full vegetarian and vegan à la carte menus means every diner cared for with eloquent, elegant creations. The distinctive and diverse selection of wines and cocktails is a drawcard too.

Popular fare includes the beef tongue (Mathew’s first-choice snack), the wood-fired octopus with a Korean-style glaze and kimchi, the West Coast mussels, and the aged beef tartare prepared with cola oil.

Opening Hours

  • Monday 12h00 - 14h30, 18h00 - 22h00
  • Tuesday 12h00 - 14h30, 18h00 - 22h00
  • Wednesday 12h00 - 14h30, 18h00 - 22h00
  • Thursday 12h00 - 14h30, 18h00 - 22h00
  • Friday 12h00 - 14h30, 18h00 - 22h30
  • Saturday 12h00 - 14h30, 18h00 - 22h30
  • Sunday CLOSED

Reviews (2978)

4.8 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.9
Value 4.7
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Michaela S. Dined: 2 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Jane S. Dined: 6 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Tue 03 Mar 26
    Love the Chefs Table. Consistently the best food and service. Thank you for another memorable experience.

  • Jody S. Dined: 3 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Clinton N. Dined: 5 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 02 Mar 26
    Excellent date night option. Food was really good and the date night menu was excellent value for money. Parking is always an issue in the village on a Saturday night.

  • Jane P. Dined: 5 days ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 01 Mar 26
    A most enjoyable evening . Food very good and wine also not overpriced

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

    Reviewed on: Sat 28 Feb 26
    Staff are friendly, polite, professional and excellent all-round service. Meals were well prepared, tasty and nicely plated. Definitely worth the visit.

  • Tim Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 27 Feb 26
    Tasty food, good selection of drinks and great service. We had a week's stay in uMhlanga and ate here 3 times. Enough said! Definitely recommended

  • David K. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.5
    Food 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 27 Feb 26
    We last dined here 3 years ago and our recent visit revealed a much improved experience. We had steak and red snapper for main course, which were delicious. The cheese board had too little cheese, but loads of accompaniments. The wine waiter was very knowledgeable and Cindy, our waitress, was brilliant. Overall we enjoyed our meal and will return soon.

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