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The Chefs Table

Contemporary International
4.8 RRR
Menu
Favourite

Attributes

  • Romantic
  • Gourmet Guide Plated
  • Reviewers' Choice 2025 - Top 100

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Menu
Favourite

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.

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

Reviews (3007)

4.8 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.8
Value 4.7
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.7
  • Aleeyah C. Dined: 2 days ago
    4
    Food 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 3.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 23 Mar 26
    Parking is an issue, very limited. Restaurant is also a bit cramped, people walking past often bumped into me at my seat.

  • Cindy P. Dined: 2 days ago
    3.8
    Food 2.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Abulele M. Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Hugh F. Dined: 4 days ago
    3.8
    Food 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 3.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Sun 22 Mar 26
    I was in a party of 5. I ordered prawns the rest of the party ordered various dishes. They were generally happy with their dishes, my prawns? Not so much, kinda boiled. However it was a Thursday night, not busy and it took almost an hour to serve.

  • Daryl N. Dined: 2 days ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Kabelo C. Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Suzaan O. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 20 Mar 26
    Our favourite restaurant in KZN! Loved the food and all round experience. Will definitely be back

  • Thembile M. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Fri 20 Mar 26
    Wow place to dine when you are at Umhlanga are

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