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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

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.

Reviews (3243)

4.7 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.7
Value 4.5
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Rozena M. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Thu 03 Apr 25
    Since Chef's Table's renovations and reopening in mid-March, the service, ambiance and culinary pleasure has been nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant now has a beautiful hue of pink, with soft salmon deco matching the brown chairs and matching crafted tabletops, a library segment with shelves stacked with homely essentials and books that is semi-private, which immediately reminded me of my home, and a beautifully decorated courtyard, that is simultaneously calming and inviting. Their private room has retained its breathtaking entrance with hand selected decor with a scented smell of sophistication, backed by stunning selection of wines. A colleague and I went on the opening day and were delighted by the newly decorated setting, with newly installed lighting that brings the sparkle and sophistication to the culinary dishes that we observed as we waited for our two-course meal, always a delight for their "ladies lunch" specials, offered during March and August. I was a little concerned when I heard that head Chef Matt Armbruster had the day off but my smile resumed the minute my order was plated and served to my table. Keolan Moodley, Chef's Table's young sous-chef served us a spectacular lunch, with a mouthwatering risotto, made with coconut milk as I am lactose intolerant. Both my colleague and I had the fish, and we exchanged glances as we took our first bite, filled with pleasure and passion. As a foodie, I want to know that I can go to a restaurant and take pleasure in any food choice that I decide on -- Chef's Table never disappoints! Chef's Table is one of the best restaurants in Durban. Whether you are going for lunch and dinner, it is always an event, a time to shine and laugh with friends and loved ones, and a time to truly enjoy the South African cuisine we take for granted, which their staff prepare with perfection. Well done staff at Chef's Table for the tasteful new decor and for continuing your legacy of exquisite servings of culinary pleasures. Prof Rozena Maart, author of PALATES OF PLEASURE (ROUTLEDGE, 2025)

  • Judell D. Dined: 6 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Matthew S. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 31 Mar 25
    Had an absolutely fantastic evening. All food was awesome. cant wait to be back

  • Sammy M. Dined: 6 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Preanka N. Dined: 6 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Kerishka R. Dined: 6 days ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Bronwyn B. Dined: 6 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 3.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Anelda T. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0
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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