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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 (3636)

4.8 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.9
Value 4.7
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.8
  • Tracy L. Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Jared P. Dined: 2 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Michael J. Dined: 4 days ago
    4.3
    Food 4.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Thu 04 Dec 25
    Very good quality restauarant , would go back , a tad pricey

  • Dhevan G. Dined: 3 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 0.0

    Reviewed on: Thu 04 Dec 25
    Tried the new Paella dish....Excellent!!

  • Deon Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 03 Dec 25
    Food and experience was amazing!

  • Edith-Ann S. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Mon 01 Dec 25
    We had such a special evening recently when our Scottish family came to visit. We wanted to give them a taste of South African fine dining, and this restaurant was the perfect choice. From the moment we walked in, everything felt welcoming and polished. The staff were attentive and kind, making sure we were comfortable and well looked after. The food was outstanding! Every dish was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. Watching our family enjoy each bite and seeing their reactions made us so proud — it was exactly the experience we hoped to share. It turned into one of those evenings you don’t forget: laughter around the table, delicious food, and the joy of showing off what South Africa has to offer.

  • Helen M. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 29 Nov 25
    Outstanding food, service and atmosphere. Amazing!!

  • Kedusha Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Sat 29 Nov 25
    We did the tasting menu with wine pairing. The food was exceptional, the plating was artful, and the ambiance inside the restaurant itself was warm and inviting. Each course was thoughtfully prepared, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. The Karoo lamb and the “PS I Love You” dessert were absolute standouts.

  • Janni C. Dined: 1 week ago
    4.8
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 4.0

    Reviewed on: Thu 27 Nov 25
    Restaurant can be abit noisy

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