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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 (3228)

4.7 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.7
Value 4.5
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Fran S. Dined: 1 day ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 26 Mar 25
    We recently hosted some of our executive clients and had a wonderful experience. The food was absolutely amazing—beautifully prepared and full of flavor. The service was equally impressive, with Cyndi providing professional and attentive care throughout the evening. The only small suggestion we’d make is to enhance the ambiance of the private dining room. A few decorative touches, like flowers, would help soften the setting and create a more inviting atmosphere. Overall, it was a fantastic evening, and we will definitely be making use of this venue again. Highly recommended!

  • S N. Dined: 2 days ago
    3.5
    Food 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Craig M. Dined: 2 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Valencia P. Dined: 5 days ago
    4.5
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Namshe K. Dined: 4 days ago
    4.3
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 24 Mar 25
    We attended the Ladies Lunch special held at Chefs Table and what an absolutely lovely experience for such great value for money. The food was a definite 9/10, friendly service and everything was beautiful. A special thank you for the complimentary dessert for my friend who was turning 40 and how well presented it was. Would highly recommend.

  • Venusha R. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 24 Mar 25
    Always a delight to dine at the chefs table...the meal that stole my heart this time was the coal roasted prawn starter - def set the bar high.

  • Clarise D. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • S’busi D. Dined: 5 days ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
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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