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The Chefs Table

Reviewers' Choice 2025 - Top 100
Contemporary International
Location Pointer 1st Floor, Protea Mall, 1 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, 4319
4.8
(3698 reviews)
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 (3698)

4.8 out of 5.0
Based on the past 12 months
Food 4.9
Value 4.7
Service 4.8
Ambience 4.8
  • Jurie G. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Mike A. Dined: 3 days ago
    4.3
    Food 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Lyndon W. Dined: 3 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 07 Jan 26
    Superb wine pairing meal. 6 courses with wines explained very professionally. Left feeling full, not stuffed! Durban in summer - dress summer casual as it’s humid - even inside.

  • Nadine L. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Wed 07 Jan 26
    We did the Summer Plates tasting menu. It was the first time we have gone to Chef’s Table. We were blown away by the food, the flavours & attention to detail on each plate. The service was immaculate. We are still talking about this experience days afterwards as it was just so lovely. 10/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • Gwyn H. Dined: 2 weeks ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Tue 06 Jan 26
    We had the use of the Private Room and it was perfect for our group. The food was delicious and the portions perfect. As always the staff are professional and attentive.

  • ASHLEE N. Dined: 4 days ago
    4
    Food 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Kim C. Dined: 4 days ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0

    Reviewed on: Tue 06 Jan 26
    The best meal we have had in a long time.

  • Chris H. Dined: 1 week ago
    4
    Food 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Service 4.0
    Ambience 4.0
  • Kate H. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
  • Fred K. Dined: 1 week ago
    5
    Food 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Service 5.0
    Ambience 5.0
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