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An intimate and immersive fine dining experience in the heart of Stellenbosch, conceptualised by Chefs Darren Badenhorst & Callan Austin.

Since opening in September 2022, our vision has been to create a space where culinary boundaries are pushed, and creativity thrives. With Callan at the helm, Dusk delivers a multi-course tasting menu that blends innovation, storytelling, and flavour. Complemented by a world-class wine list and thoughtfully curated beverage pairings, we invite our guests to embark on a memorable journey through modern gastronomy.

Seasonality and locality are at the heart of everything we do. Our menu is a carefully curated expression of bold flavors, innovative techniques, and thoughtful craftsmanship. With a focus on fermentation and preservation, we create layers of depth and complexity—from house-made misos and garums to delicate lacto-ferments, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses. Each element is designed to highlight the finest ingredients sourced from local producers, ensuring a dining experience that is both refined and memorable

More than just a restaurant, Dusk reflects Chef’s Callan and Darren’s values and vision—a space where creativity, collaboration, and mental well-being are celebrated. We are committed to fostering a positive work culture for our team and creating an atmosphere where guests can connect, share, and savor unforgettable moments. Through our dedication to sustainability, hospitality, and innovation, we aim to redefine modern fine dining while staying true to our roots and passion for exceptional food.

Gourmet Guide Description

Hidden in Stellenbosch’s bustling Plein Street, a sophisticated epicurean crusade awaits 30 diners after dark. At their vibey Nocturne bar next door, you can savour a classic welcome cocktail – and maybe head back for more after dining at DUSK. You’ll want the adventure to last forever…

Light is centred discreetly on a white-clad table. The dark, intimate interior is the perfect backdrop for DUSK’s concept of all-encompassing, experimental dining. It’s a result of the expansive minds of restaurateur Darren Badenhorst and executive chef Callan Austin. Callan has channeled his technical expertise into creating exceptional dishes in the 16-course epicurean tasting menu (the odyssey menu is six courses with choices), divided into a prelude, interlude and epilogue.

From the start, the amuse bouche of three bite-sized creations reveals evidence of an alchemist at work with premium ingredients. An ultimate treat of perfectly pan-fried Scottish scallop with cauliflower, raisin, and blue cheese butter tortellini is a coup. It’s married with a black garlic emulsion, a delicate Parma ham and cauliflower floss, aerated lemon hollandaise, local KZN winter truffle, and caviar from Madagascar.

Reviews (652)

4.6 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.7
Value 4.4
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Shenecca C. Dined: 3 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Tue 15 Apr 25
    We had a lovely experience at Dusk, even though it didn’t start out as planned. I had mistakenly booked for the Monday instead of Sunday, but the team was incredibly accommodating and managed to fit us in without any fuss – a much-appreciated gesture. The food was absolutely delicious, and I opted for the food and cocktail pairing, which was a refreshing and unique change from the usual wine pairing. Each course was beautifully thought out, and the flavours were well balanced. That said, the atmosphere felt a little cold – not unwelcoming, but lacking a bit of warmth or vibe that could’ve elevated the overall experience. The staff were friendly and attentive, though, which helped balance it out. One small design issue that stood out: each table has a hanging light positioned directly in the middle, and it happened to be right at eye level with my partner. It made conversation slightly awkward, as we had to lean or shift to see each other properly. It seemed like it was specially low on our table (second light on the left as you walk in). Maybe it can be adjusted. All in all, it was an enjoyable evening with excellent food and a very thoughtful team – just a few tweaks away from being a perfect dining experience.

  • Rick E. Dined: 5 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 13 Apr 25
    Excellent, great setting, fantastic chefs and staff.

  • Lewin D. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 05 Apr 25
    Sensational food. ATD at it’s best. Perfect balance between food and art. Highlight was bringing a small challenge at the start then re-visiting the answer later in the meal.

    Dusk responded on Tue 08 Apr 25:
    Dear Lewin Thank you for your wonderful feedback which is much appreciated. We are glad that you enjoyed your evening with us, and look forward to welcoming you back soon... Kindest Regards, Team DUSK

  • Marianne B. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 31 Mar 25
    We spent a wonderful evening at the Dusk. Foodpresentation as well as quality was exceptional; also to mention the perfect service of all the staff. My husband took the chance of the Pandora drinking package - an exciting idea for wine lovers.

    Dusk responded on Tue 08 Apr 25:
    Dear Marianne Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us, we truly appreciate it and glad that you husband enjoyed the Pandora's Box Pairing. Many thanks again, Team DUSK

  • Deidre L. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 30 Mar 25
    Dinner at Dusk was a delightful experience. As always, the food was beautifully presented, showcasing Chef Callan’s signature touch. Every dish on the menu was delicious, with carefully balanced flavours that made for a memorable meal. A truly special evening.

    Dusk responded on Tue 08 Apr 25:
    Dear Deidre Thank you for taking the time to share this wonderful comment with us. Chef Callan and the team here at Dusk really appreciate it.

  • Andy J. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    4
    Food 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Graham A. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 23 Mar 25
    Thank you for a lovely meal always. Our clients enjoyed the meal. The cape Luxury Res Team

    Dusk responded on Sun 23 Mar 25:
    Dear Cape Luxury Res Team, It was an absolute pleasure to host your clients, as we look forward to being of further assistance to you and your team going forward. Many thanks from Team DUSK

  • Aishling O. Dined: 3 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 23 Mar 25 (Guest left no comment)

    Dusk responded on Sun 23 Mar 25:
    Dear Aishling Thank you for the 5 star review. Much appreciated, Team DUSK.

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Opening Hours

  • Monday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Tuesday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Wednesday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Thursday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Friday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Saturday 18h00 - 22h00
  • Sunday 18h00 - 20h00