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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

Durbanites love their ode to fine dining in the shopping part of seaside town, Umhlanga. It’s 150 seats are often full and it’s always vibey. It’s accessible in every way – watch the passionate team hard at work in the open kitchen over lunches or dinner, enjoying the a la carte or set menus. Décor is contemporary and the Tretchikoff’s mural eye-catching.

While chef Calvin Metior likes to source produce locally, taking advantage of the coast and the nearby midlands, you will find a gin-cured Norwegian salmon on the menu. The amasi crème fraiche is as vital as the hero ingredients, alongside charred cucumber, cucumber pickle and beetroot, paired with a 2020 Korrell Kabinett Riesling.

Salt-baked celeriac is served with Cape gooseberry, black garlic, fermented mustard and pickled garlic stems, creating a sensational flavour and mouth feel. The lamb samosa is a fusion of spices that create theatre and drama. Try the Saldanha Bay mussels with masala and coconut, leeks plus leek ash oil. These dishes celebrate the diversity of South African cuisine, the substantial vetkoek a delight.

The Chef’s Table is the perfect place to dine out with friends and family, laid-back with a sense of celebration. Time and care are taken with wine pairings and cocktail options, with staff attentive and friendly.

Reviews (2816)

4.6 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.6
Value 4.4
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.6
  • Julie-Ann S. Dined: 4 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Kathy B. Dined: 3 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 21 Apr 24
    Thoroughly enjoyed our experience. Food top class as usual!

  • Sheena O. Dined: 3 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 21 Apr 24
    Superb! Food sublime, outmatched only by service.

  • Itumeleng S. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 20 Apr 24
    Simply the best

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

    Reviewed on: Thu 18 Apr 24
    Our waitress was fantastic, she really made the whole evening a great experience.. The food was excellent and ambience was great!!

  • Michele P. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 17 Apr 24
    Our waiter and Carl made the visit extra special. Loved your bread and butter :) Will definitely recommend.

  • Robynne M. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    4
    Food 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 17 Apr 24
    A wonderful lunch spent with family. Food was beautifully presented. I really enjoyed all 3 of my courses. Two of my lunch companions were left a little disappointed as their dishes didn't have the flavours they were hoping for. The restaurant was very quiet, but it was Thursday lunch time. Preparation of the dishes took time. Service was good but could've been a little more attentive given we were only 1 of two tables in the restaurant. But knowledge of the dishes and wines was spot on. Overall a wonderful experience, especially if you like beautiful-looking food.

  • Alida A. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 0.0

    Reviewed on: Tue 16 Apr 24
    FANTASTIC

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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