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MERTIA

Reviewers' Choice 2024 - Newcomer
Fine Dining French Japanese South African Vegan Friendly Vegetarian Friendly
Location Pointer 20 Bird St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
4.8
(490 reviews)
RRR
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Attributes

  • Romantic
  • Wheelchair Friendly
  • WiFi
  • Gourmet Guide Plated
  • Reviewers' Choice 2024 - Newcomer

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At MERTIA, our values are at the heart and soul of everything we do. We prioritise sustainability, showcase South African heritage through global flavours, build communities and connections, and celebrate culinary craftsmanship - all while continuously evolving. We invite you to join us on this journey.

Gourmet Guide™ Description

It’s in what was once a bank that chef Matt van den Berg and front-of-house master Marais Kirsten-Uys realised their dream. Opening Mertia in their late twenties, they sought to define special moments and evoke memories with food. Stylish and elegant, the restaurant’s upper floor features wooden floors, well-spaced tables, and a private dining room that serves as the blank canvas on which they create their respective arts. The restaurant’s primary nod is to Marais’s grandmother, after whom it is named. The second nod is to the team, individually acknowledged on the back of the menu, which evolves seasonally.

A professional sommelier carefully pairs the wines, and like the rest of the team, exudes the passion that underpins every element of the dining experience.

Opening Hours

  • Monday CLOSED
  • Tuesday 17h30 - 22h00
  • Wednesday 17h30 - 22h00
  • Thursday 17h30 - 22h00
  • Friday 12h00 - 22h00
  • Saturday 12h00 - 22h00
  • Sunday CLOSED

Reviews (490)

4.8 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.9
Value 4.8
Service 4.9
Ambience 4.7
  • Averill C. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 05 Jul 25
    We booked Mertia as a gift for my In laws anniversary. They loved absolutely everything, from the warm welcome, attentive service, delicious meals and special dessert. Tammy was an absolute angel in the run up to the special day, replying to my emails promptly and pleasantly, nothing too much for her.

  • Velma V. Dined: 1 day ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 05 Jul 25
    An exceptional experience all round. Every morsel of food was delicious. My favorite was the fish collar and what would be a non event, the bread course, is stunning. I particularly enjoyed the interaction with the chef. A very talented young team well worth supporting

  • Virginie C. Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 04 Jul 25
    An unforgettable experience at Mertia! From the warm welcome to the goodbye, everything was exceptional. The food was delicious, and the staff’s explanation of each dish was impressive and added so much to the experience. They organised a surprise birthday dinner for my husband, including flowers and a stunning piece of art with a printed photo of us…such a thoughtful and emotional touch. Truly outstanding service and attention to detail. Highly recommended!

  • Johannie Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 04 Jul 25
    So wonderful!! Looking forward to the Spring menu!! What an amazing experience!

    MERTIA responded on Sat 05 Jul 25:
    Thank you for your thoughtful review, we look forward to welcoming you back soon! Kind regards MERTIA Team

  • Wendy B. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 02 Jul 25
    Chef Matthew is a genius. My wife and I had a truly fantastic culinary experience last night. Congratulations to the whole Mertia team. Top job! Thank you

    MERTIA responded on Sat 05 Jul 25:
    Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Wendy! We’re truly honoured by your kind words. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another amazing evening! Kind regards MERTIA Team

  • Marc V. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 02 Jul 25
    Great fine dining restaurant in the heart of Stellenbosch. Chefs are innovative and provide good info and demonstrations at the table, we loved it. Excellent vegetarian menu as well.

    MERTIA responded on Sat 05 Jul 25:
    Dear Marc, thank you for your wonderful review and kind words! We look forward to welcoming you back in the near future. Kind regards MERTIA Team

  • Magdel L. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 30 Jun 25
    What a great experience. Food, service and atmosphere were amazing. Would definitely recommend them.

    MERTIA responded on Sat 05 Jul 25:
    Thank you for your thoughtful review! Your recommendation means the world to us! We can’t wait to welcome you back for another memorable experience. Kind regards MERTIA Team

  • Petrus S. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 29 Jun 25
    Innovation grounded in local flavours. An intimate setting and service to match. One of the best restaurants in Stellenbosch.

    MERTIA responded on Sat 05 Jul 25:
    Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re truly honoured by your kind words. We hope to welcome you back again soon! Kind regards MERTIA Team

  • Hachim H. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 29 Jun 25 (Guest left no comment)

    MERTIA responded on Sat 05 Jul 25:
    Thank you for your review, we look forward to welcoming you back soon! Kind regards MERTIA Team

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