Durbanites can get ready to tantalize their taste buds. Following on from 2017’s successful debut venture, Franschhoek’s Haute Cabrière wine estate, together with chefs Nic van Wyk and Westley Muller, have officially set out on a second season of Pop-Up restaurants.
A countrywide tour that celebrates delectable cuisine and fine wine, the acclaimed Fairmont Zimbali Resort will play host to the only Pop-Up restaurants in KwaZulu-Natal. The first pop-up dinner will be taking place at the OSA Restaurant at Fairmont Zimbali Resort, on the 7th and 13th July, while the Zimbali Lodge will be hosting additional pop-up experiences between the 10th – 12th July.
“Last year’s overwhelming response and support was humbling. We sold out within weeks of announcing the tour, a sign that our loyal followers outside the Western Cape are very eager to experience Haute Cabrière in their own cities,” says Lientjie McLachlan, Marketing Manager of Haute Cabrière. “It was an absolute pleasure sharing our passion for both food and wine with those who know and love the brand, while also introducing new food and wine enthusiasts to our wines and Chefs Nic and Westley’s cuisine,” further explains McLachlan.
Haute Cabrière’s food and wine philosophy centres around the concept of harmony and balance. Second generation cellar master, Takuan von Arnim, aspires to produce well-balanced wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, while still honouring the unique characteristics of these noble grape varietals. A perfect example of this is the winery’s iconic Chardonnay Pinot Noir. In the Cellar restaurant, Chefs Nic and Westley rely on classic French techniques to deliver bold South African cuisine that has stood the test of time. All dishes are expertly paired with wines from both the Haute Cabrière and Pierre Jourdan portfolios.
“We are delighted to be hosting the second season of the Haute Cabrière Pop-Up Restaurants and look forward to sharing an unforgettable dining experience with our guests. Due to popular demand, this year we have also introduced a Sunday Roast and Cooking Class events,” shares Nils Rothbarth, General Manager of Fairmont Zimbali Resort.
Pop-Up dinners at the Fairmont Zimbali Resort will offer guests the chance to enjoy the highlights of a typical wine farm experience. A visit to Haute Cabrière in Franschhoek is ultimately a memorable day spent in excellent company, with fine food and wine to match. During this tour, diners can look forward to a six-course tasting menu, each course paired with a different wine to create a unique and unforgettable taste experience. Menu highlights include pan fried Patagonia calamari with black tomato sauce and seared scallops, paired with the Haute Cabrière unwooded Pinot Noir, and finishes on a high note with a chocolate torte with amaretti crumbs, candied pecan nuts and salted caramel popcorn, accompanied by a glass of Pierre Jourdan Ratafia.
As part of this series Fairmont Zimbali Resort & Zimbali Lodge will be hosting the following events:
- 7 & 13 July – 6 course Indian inspired tasting menu at OSA Restaurant, Fairmont Zimbali Resort (R595 per person, wine included)
- 8 July – Sunday Feast menu at OSA Restaurant, Fairmont Zimbali Resort (R395 per person. Three course meal paired with wine)
- 10, 11 & 12 July – 6 course Haute Cabriere tasting menu at Thandi Restaurant, Zimbali Lodge (R595 per person, wine included)
- 11 July – Cooking class with Chef Nic van Wyk, Zimbali Lodge (R395 per person. Cooking demo followed by a light lunch paired with wine)
- 15 July – Sunday Feast menu at Thandi Restaurant, Zimbali Lodge (R395 per person. Three course meal paired with wine)
Reservations should be made directly with the venue via 032 538 5000 or zim.dining@fairmont.com.