4 Best Restaurants in Paarl, The Western Cape and Winelands

Set on the grounds of one of the Cape's oldest farms, Babel is a vision in white surrounded by lush fruit and vegetable gardens and a gorgeous backdrop of mountains. Everything about this farm is stylish: the restaurant is in a converted cow shed, and the menu includes inventive dishes influenced by whatever is bountiful in the garden that day. Expect bold flavors and unusual combinations. 

As is the case for Avondale, the vineyard where this elegant restaurant is based, Faber places a heavy focus on being sustainable. The menu changes often but always features carefully composed dishes using ethically sourced meat and fish, plus herbs and vegetables harvested from the estate garden. The confit duck with pickled blueberries and turnip fondant is decadent. You can order à la carte or opt for a six-course feast with wine pairings from the farm.

This long-running place is a local favorite, managing to serve delicious and delightfully plated food while remaining totally unpretentious. The menu is small and eclectic, featuring some Asian-inspired dishes, classics like steak and fries, or pan-fried catch of the day. Don't pass up hearty South African desserts such as malva pudding. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

Set on the De Meye Wine Estate, between Stellenbosch and Paarl, The Table is run by a husband-and-wife team tirelessly churning out hearty, family-style dishes with what’s available from local producers that day. Delicious meals—think slow-cooked free-range Karoo lamb, garden kale salad, and wood-fired sourdough loaf—are served family-style. They will accommodate individual dietary needs, but the dishes are served on large platters, so if you don't like what's on the menu, tough luck. Snagging a seat at one of the sought-after tables is not easy, so book in advance.