I first visited Buitenverwachting in 1993 and have been coming regularly until my last visit in October 2014. I eagerly anticipated a return 30 years on since my first visit. Understandably the place has changed considerably over the years but I was sad not to see the huge visitors book which I signed on every previous visit. The new decor and layout maximises the view and is modern and stylish. However, for me it lacked the grace and intimacy of the old arrangement. You were much more conscious of other tables around you and the hard surfaces made acoustics sharper, whereas the old arrangement you felt you were in a private oasis with tables around by not close or intruding. The food is very good, but unlike tasting menus of old there was not that knock out dish that transported you to another level. Also gone were some of the old touches, such as the palate cleansing sorbets between fish and meat courses, and meat and desert. Similarly the petit fours at the end were not homemade. The service was as always exceptional. Staff were knowledgable and helpful and never tried to oversell, in fact a couple of times they advised slight less expensive choices from the wine menu taking account of what we were looking for. It was our best meal this visit in South Africa so far but not the transporting experience of old, as such I don’t think I will return, unless they can find the old visitors book!! Instead I will savour the many happy memories of my visits here of the last 3 decades.

We discovered Buitenverwachting while exploring neighbouring estates. Tranquil setting, good deli and airy restaurant, beautiful lawns for picnics and a relaxed, chic tasting area. Be aware...restaurant kitchen closes early. We arrived just after 3pm and were too late for ordering meals. Various platters available at the wine tasting area.

We had their wine tasting. 5 wines. We also order a cheese board and a sweet board. Their cheese board was great, those little breads were sooooo YUMMY 😋The sweet board was a let down. They were 2 vanilla cupcakes and 4 blocks of brownie, which I assume it was a brownie cut in 4 pieces. The wine farm is nice but the seating outside does not have the best views. The front of the building has better views. Beautiful lush lawns for little ones to explore.