Constantia Uitsig

Description:

• Situated on the Constantia wine route, Uitsig (literally "Views") combines perfect mountain and vineyard views with a predominantly Italian menu. Chef Frank Swainston tries to update his menu, but patron pressure has ensured you will have the following choices, all recommended: paper-thin fish carpaccio, served with avocado; bouchée de moules (mussels in puff pastry in a spinach-and-saffron velouté); grilled springbok loin served with a caramelized honey and lemon sauce; and the legendary trippa alla Florentina (a tomato-based tripe with carrots, celery, and onions). Swainston's Marquise au Chocolat is the most sinful dessert ever made. Sadly, consistency has become a bit of a problem, with some dishes simply not up to par, but the staff is superb at assisting with new choices, and it still rates tops as an overall experience.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010