Arts Writer
IF happiness is a shared meal then Gabriëlskloof, the well-appointed culinary hotspot on the "koppie" outside Bot River, will be a happy place this winter. Their new Sharing Sundays offers slow-cooked meals, family style.
From May 1 to the end of August the concept of shareable cuisine will take on a nostalgic charm at this wine and olive farm in the Overberg, with each Sunday saluting a different 'family feast' with wholesome dishes cooked from the larder and land.
"There is a huge difference between 'sharing a meal' and 'sharing food'," says Chef Frans Groenewald who is known for his heart and soul food, served with true 'platteland' passion and a generous hand.
"With our Sharing Sundays we invite people to ditch their winter hibernation for a communal, happy high. It is all about simple, slow cooked family meals served on big platters where everyone can help themselves and share in a delicious selection of heritage fare at their own table. We want people to engage with their more pro-social selves and get cosy and content, while we chase away the winter chills with great food, wine and company," adds Frans, a fan of rich sauces, bold flavours and real farm butter.
Changing weekly, these family feasts will range from osso bucco and hearty sides to tomato bredie with tables brimming with country fare; coq au vin with a touch of 'Frans' to rustic farm chicken with tasty, earthy comforts to brighten even the greyest of winter's days. A large fireplace and comfy nook with sofas, round off a relaxed, homey ambience which entices visitors to indulge, recharge and genuinely slow down.
In addition to its Sharing Sundays which cost R250 per person for this three course family feast, Gabriëlskloof also lifts the lid on wholesome country goodness with a new A La Carte Winter Menu, with a two course meal costing R185 and a three course indulgence R215.
Gabriëlskloof Restaurant is open daily for breakfast and lunch, except on Tuesdays and bookings are essential.
To reserve your table at this delicious destination, where country hospitality meets genuine people and real food and wine with a sense of place, call 028 284 9865 or email restaurant@gabrielskloof.
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Gabriëlskloof Estate is just outside Bot River, on the Swartrivier Road, off the N2.