Feasting at Reuben's Restaurant and Bar in Franschhoek

I recently visited one of Franschhoek’s newly launched gems that boasts clean lines, chic interior, and food that offers a familiar yet elevated flavour journey that only Reuben Riffel can take you on – meet Reuben’s restaurant and bar, Franschhoek. 

Situated in the heart of the town, this gorgeous space is roughly 40 minutes drive from Cape Town CBD and well worth the trip. Passing gorgeous wine estates and cherry blossoms (at least this time of year) along the way, an added bonus.

The space is ethereal with bright natural light filling the restaurant from the simple bold black center barred windows. The entrance is grand yet understated with a gorgeous marble floor that bounces the light and creates a feeling of space and simplicity. Perfectly chosen artwork gives the space a finishing touch. 
I fell in love with the interiors instantly. 
The restaurant accommodates for long summer lunches outside on the patio or you can make your way inside on a colder day.  There are impeccable design choices at every turn and I must say, even the restrooms impressed me with their unique black basin and gorgeous floral wallpaper. 

The food was described by Reuben as simply “Food I like to eat” with fresh local produce taking front row and center. Each course was a taste explosion and every mouthful was perfect. I couldn’t help but fall in love with every plate, not only for the food but also for the artistry that encompassed every presentation. Simplicity is key and Reuben has taken classical flavours and reimagined them. I enjoyed a glass of crisp Chenin and ended the afternoon off with decadent chocolate fondant and the perfect coffee. 

If you are undecided about the local wines on offer, try the tea and brandy cocktail to start. It will put you in the perfect frame of mind when it comes time to order your pairing partner in crime.

Reuben’s latest offering in Franschhoek, I believe, is not only a result of the natural evolution of his footprint in the valley but an inspired, considered rebirth. 

-Melissa

Exploring the Kurland in Plettenberg Bay

Would you like to step back in time into a by gone era? A place where high tea is at 3 pm, polo horses surround you and the interior engulfs you in authentic warmth and charm. 
Meet The Kurland, a luxury boutique hotel offering gracious country living. A property just a stone throw from Plettenberg bay that will transport you back in time! 

Travelling from Cape Town, The Kurland is roughly a little over 6 hours drive out on the N2, the main highway running along the Garden Route. 
If you are flying into Cape Town International you will need to rent a car and trust me, it will be well worth it! The Kurland is situated between majestic mountains and pristine beaches of Nature's Valley. 

The hotel is situated on a 700-hectare private estate that has 12 gorgeous suites offering utter privacy and luxury. The hotel is child-friendly and has several options to engage your little one on your stay including playrooms filled with wonderful toys. 
With an on site spa and tennis court, there is something for Mom and Dad, an oasis to keep the whole family happy. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy you can take a drive with the quad bikes across the property or visit the Polo horses and grounds that are perfectly manicured! You will find the staff exceptionally attentive with every need being fulfilled at a moments notice.

The rooms are lavish with a touch of yesteryear. Each room has a unique theme running through the interior and boasts a fireplace that will keep you very cozy should you visit in the winter like I did. The bathrooms are spacious with under floor heating to keep your toes warm, which is a little touch I am obsessed with! I had possibly one of the best nights sleep I have ever had with a crackling fireplace humming me into dreamland and an engulfing king-size bed!

Executive Chef Leon Coetzee provides an elevated dining experience whilst keeping country charm. A modern take on classic dishes. 
If you are in the mood for high tea then why not enjoy freshly baked scones and cucumber sandwiches. I sure did!   

You need not leave the property during your stay as it caters to every conceivable want. You can go on a hike, visit the horses, go to the spa for the day or get involved in the action packed Polo events. This property offers something for the family, which is a wonderful change to most places that don’t really accommodate the little ones. It was great seeing such a family oriented destination that doesn’t compromise on quality. 

-Melissa 

Kale Parmesan Chips

Crunch is the ultimate texture in my world. I find it utterly satisfying. I used to be obsessed with crisps that are unhealthy, oily and didn't offer any nutritional value. Once I figured out that it was the crunch I was after, I started to shift what I saw as a snack. I decided to rather go after tasty, crunchy snacks that are high in nutritional value and don't leave me with guilt after eating empty calories. A nutritional snack will also leave you satiated rather than hungry 20 minutes later. Making mindful decisions on snacking has been one of the best things I have done to support my decision in leading a healthier lifestyle. 

These kale chips are easy to make and are a fun way to use the dark green leaf. You can play around with toppings. If you are vegan why not try mixing them with some toasted pumpkin seeds and hummus for dipping? 

---

*Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, stalks removed 
• 2 - 3 teaspoons coconut oil
• salt
• ¼ cup parmesan, finely grated

---

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Tear the kale leaves into bite sized portions and place them onto a roasting tray. Massage all the leaves with coconut oil until they are evenly coated. Spread them evenly on the roasting tray and crack some salt over the top.

If the roasting tray is full, rather spread the kale between two trays to give the leaves space to roast without steaming, otherwise, they’ll get soggy rather than crispy. Pop them into the oven and roast for ten minutes tossing them at the halfway point. Once ready, sprinkle with some grated parmesan and serve.

Food Tip:

Parmesan is the ultimate umami flavour and a light sprinkling can help to elevate a dish. After all, umami means yummy!

-Melissa 

Staying at The Old Rectory Plettenberg Bay

Picture walking into a historic building dating back to 1777 that has been fully refurbished with a timeless decor, original fireplace and stone walls. 

A stone’s throw away from world famous serene beaches that are home to the pretty pansy shell welcome to The Old Rectory, the latest addition to the exquisite Rare Earth collection. 

The property is situated in the picturesque town of Plettenberg Bay. A six-hour drive from Cape Town out on the N2 highway along the famous garden route. It's a gorgeous drive that show cases South African country side at its best. Passing towns that have some of the most breathtaking views and neat little restaurants and shops, it’s definitely a pilgrimage that you need to do at least once. I recommend tackling the 6-hour drive over two days with an overnight in Swellendam so you are able to soak up as much of the trip as possible. 
Each coastal town offers something unique and is worth exploring. 

The hotel's heritage building dates back to 1777 and was used as a rectory by the Anglican church until the current rectory was built in 1939. It has been restored to its former glory paying homage to the old with sections of the original stone walls exposed beneath glass panels, and a breath of fresh air in the modern interior design. The hotel still uses the original fireplace where you can sit and enjoy a glass of red wine while the fire crackles away. 

For the more festively inclined, there is a gorgeous bar area where you can enjoy cocktail hour on the perfectly appointed chesterfield couches. 
The patio has a wrap around deck and a pristine swimming pool that looked very inviting, albeit it winter.
The main affair happens to be the dining hall. This is the property’s heritage building and there is a strong sense of times gone by in the air. 

The rooms are well thought out with great attention to detail. Each room has a mini bar, coffee and tea station, tv and a king size bed. The bathroom is a gorgeous design feature that has under floor heating and a huge open shower accentuated by bright blue walls and cement floors. The interior is sleek with a neutral palette and perfect pops of colour. 

Dining at The Old Rectory is a classy affair. The food is simple and well-executed. The menu has something for everyone and is vegetarian-friendly. If you find yourself eating there - do try the gnocchi, it was my favourite paired with a glass of crisp white wine! 

Breakfast was delicious and some of the best-scrambled eggs that I have ever had! The offerings included stewed fruits and a preserve selection that was utterly delicious along with freshly baked home made bread (which no sane human could resist) 

The area is full of activities on offer, whether wine tasting is your thing (if so stop at Kay and Monty) or your preference is hiking and whale watching. Plettenberg Bay has several animal sanctuaries that are wonderful to visit. They have rescued many animals from circuses and zoos and have given them a home that is much more humane and a lot wilder than what the animals have experienced before. It is also home to one of the biggest bird aviaries in the southern hemisphere. 

If exploring isn't your thing and you would rather stay in then don't be shy, there is a Spa on site that will take care of all your relaxation needs.

The question isn't should I visit The Old Rectory, the question is simply, how long for?

-Melissa 

p.s press play below to view my first youtube video. A huge thank you to Lauren-Leigh Livesey for your collaboration! 

*This blog post is sponsored by Rare Earth Properties. All opinions are my own. 

Vanilla bean and Buttermilk Panna Cotta with a Berry compote

This dessert is a lot of fun because it is so easy to make and if you use coconut sugar it is refined sugar-free. Topped with the berries which are high in anti oxidants it ranks high up on my guilt free dessert list. This recipe is a great example of how you can substitute unhealthy refined sugar with healthier coconut sugar and that you do not have to go without your precious sweet treats! Next time you find yourself baking and using sugar, remember that you don't have to use such a large amount and that if you lessen the amount in a recipe (it won't affect the recipe and the sweetness) or find a healthier substitute, your body will thank you. Consuming empty calories isn't a way of 'treating' your body. If you can change your mindset on that, you can invite healthier alternatives into your life that will nourish you rather than leaving you with horrible guilt and a nasty sugar crash! 

---

Ingredients: 

• 3 tablespoons cold water 
• 1 1/2 teaspoons unflavoured gelatin 
• 2 cups heavy cream (divided) 
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar (normal castor sugar will also work) 
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 
• 1 vanilla pod, halved and seeds removed 

Berry compote: 

• 1 1/2 cups mixed berries (you can use frozen) 
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar  (normal castor sugar will also work)
• Fresh mint leaves to serve 

---

Instructions:

Bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over cold water. I use a glass of ice water and measure my water from there to ensure it very cold. If the water isn't cold you can get lumpy panna cotta. 

Add the vanilla bean scraping, 1 cup of heavy cream and the sugar to a small pot and dissolve the sugar over a medium heat.

Once dissolved whisk in the rest of the heavy cream and buttermilk. 

Remove from the heat and whisk in the gelatin. 

Pour the mixture into tumbler glasses, cover with cling film and place in the fridge to set overnight. 

Before serving: 

Add all the ingredients for the berry compote into a small pot over a medium heat. Stir the berries and let the mixture reduce. Once you reach a syrup consistency, remove from the heat. Let the berries cool before serving. 

Serve with a dollop of berries and a sprig of mint!