The latest Statistics South Africa Food & Beverage Survey (May 2026) paints a concerning picture for one of South Africa’s largest employers.

While many may view a decline of only 0.3% in real income as relatively insignificant, those operating restaurants, pubs, coffee shops and food service businesses know that these figures tell a very different story. A story restaurateurs have felt for many months – but is only now being reflected in the stats.  In real terms (constant 2019 prices), food and beverage income declined by 0.3% in May 2026 compared with May 2025.  Looking at the latest three-month period, food and beverage income fell by 0.2%, with restaurants and coffee shops declining by 1.7%, making them the largest contributor to the industry’s decline.

Seasonally adjusted figures tell a similar story, with income decreasing by 0.6% over the latest three months, once again driven primarily by restaurants and coffee shops.

These are not simply statistics.

They represent thousands of business owners who are working longer hours, carrying greater financial risk and employing millions of South Africans while trying simply to survive.

Turnover is Flat – Costs are Not

The greatest challenge facing the hospitality industry is that turnover has remained largely stagnant while operating costs continue to increase at unprecedented levels.

Every significant expense faced by restaurants has increased substantially over recent years, from electricity tariffs to food – to every single input cost.

For many hospitality businesses, these cost increases have far exceeded consumer inflation.  In practical terms, restaurants today generally require annual revenue growth of between 10% and 15% simply to maintain the same profitability.  Any increase below this often means the business is actually going backwards financially.

This is why a real decline of 0.3% is far more significant than it first appears.

Government Must Understand the Reality

The hospitality industry fully supports legislation that protects employees and customers.

However, new legislation must also be practical, affordable and proportionate.

Unfortunately, government departments often introduce new compliance requirements without fully appreciating the cumulative financial impact on businesses that already operate on extremely small profit margins.  Although aimed at improving workplace health and safety, these regulations introduce additional obligations.  Each of these requirements carries a cost.

For larger organisations these costs may be manageable.

For independent restaurants, cafés, pubs and family-owned food businesses already operating on margins often below 5%, every additional compliance requirement places further pressure on their viability.

No individual regulation may appear excessive in isolation.  The problem is the cumulative effect.

When combined with escalating municipal charges, increasing utility costs, higher food prices, rising wages and ongoing economic uncertainty, another layer of compliance can easily become the difference between remaining open and closing permanently.

One of South Africa’s Greatest Job Creators

The irony is that restaurants are among South Africa’s greatest creators of employment.  Few industries employ more people per square metre of trading space than the hospitality sector.  Importantly, our industry creates employment opportunities for people from every educational background.

Restaurants provide first jobs for school leavers, opportunities for individuals with limited formal education, practical workplace training, career development and entrepreneurial opportunities.  In a country where unemployment remains one of our greatest national challenges, this sector should be encouraged – not burdened.  Every restaurant that closes means job losses, suppliers lose customers, farmers lose markets, local economies lose spending.

The ripple effect extends far beyond a single business.

A Different Approach is Needed

FEDHASA believes there is a better way.

Government should actively work with the hospitality industry to create an environment where businesses can grow, invest and employ more South Africans.

This includes:

• Simplifying regulatory compliance for small and medium-sized hospitality businesses.
• Conducting meaningful economic impact assessments before introducing new regulations.
• Recognising hospitality as a strategic employment sector deserving of support.
• Ending the ongoing disruption to essential bulk services that is undermining business sustainability.
• Moderating above-inflation increases in rates and utility charges.
• Creating incentives for businesses that expand employment and skills development.

Hospitality is an Investment in South Africa

Restaurants are far more than places where people eat – they are community gathering places, tourism attractions, training grounds for future professionals and one of the country’s most accessible entry points into employment.

The latest Statistics South Africa figures should serve as a warning.

Our industry remains resilient, innovative and optimistic.

But resilience cannot replace profitability.

If South Africa genuinely wishes to reduce unemployment, stimulate tourism and grow local economies, then the restaurant and food service sector must be recognised as a strategic partner in economic development – not simply another industry upon which additional costs and regulatory obligations can be imposed.

Supporting hospitality businesses is not merely good for the industry.

It is good for employment.

It is good for tourism.

It is good for communities.

And ultimately, it is good for South Africa.

Home to South Africa’s largest concentration of award-winning restaurants, celebrated wine estates, visionary chefs and artisan producers, Stellenbosch once again invites visitors to experience why it is recognised as the country’s leading food and wine destination.

Some destinations are known for great restaurants. Stellenbosch is something else entirely.

Here, award-winning chefs, passionate winemakers, artisan producers, farmers and welcoming hosts come together to create a destination where every meal tells a story. Whether it is an intimate chef’s table, a long table feast among the vines, an innovative tasting menu or a leisurely brunch that turns into an afternoon, food is not simply something you enjoy. It is how you experience Stellenbosch.

It is this extraordinary concentration of chefs, winemakers, farmers, cheesemakers, bakers, distillers, olive producers and hospitality experiences, all within minutes of one another, that makes Stellenbosch unlike anywhere else in South Africa. Every meal begins long before it reaches the table, rooted in exceptional local produce, generations of craftsmanship and a culture that celebrates creativity, collaboration and genuine hospitality.

Recognised by the Eat Out Awards, Gourmet Guide and the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, Stellenbosch continues to set the benchmark for culinary excellence in South Africa. Home to some of the country’s most celebrated restaurants and wine estates, the destination has earned a reputation for delivering world-class food and wine experiences that are authentic, innovative and deeply connected to place.

“Taste Stellenbosch is more than a celebration of exceptional food and wine. It is a celebration of the people, passion and craftsmanship that have shaped Stellenbosch into South Africa’s leading food and wine destination,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch.

“Every chef, winemaker, farmer, artisan producer and host contributes to a culinary story that is uniquely Stellenbosch. Here, remarkable experiences begin with extraordinary ingredients, are brought to life by talented people and shared around tables that inspire conversation, connection and discovery. Taste Stellenbosch invites visitors to slow down, savour every moment and experience a destination where every meal becomes a lasting memory. We hope every visitor leaves inspired, already planning their return, because the very best way to discover Stellenbosch is one unforgettable meal at a time.”

This year’s programme celebrates the remarkable breadth and diversity of Stellenbosch’s culinary landscape. From intimate chef collaborations and immersive food and wine pairings to vineyard feasts, long table gatherings, heritage dining experiences and menus created exclusively for the season, every experience has been thoughtfully curated to showcase the creativity, generosity and unmistakable sense of place that define South Africa’s leading food and wine destination.

“Taste Stellenbosch is an invitation to experience the extraordinary diversity of our destination,” says Daniel Kriel, Chairman of Taste Stellenbosch.

“Whether it is an intimate chef’s table, a vineyard feast, a long lunch with friends or discovering a hidden culinary gem for the first time, every experience has been thoughtfully created by passionate people who love sharing Stellenbosch. Visitors won’t simply enjoy exceptional food and wine. They’ll discover the warmth, creativity and generosity that make this destination so memorable and leave with every reason to return.”

Highlights of Taste Stellenbosch 2026 include:

• De Warenmarkt’s interactive Test Kitchen and Pinotage & Venison Winemakers’ Dinner with Beyerskloof.
• 96 Winery Road Restaurant’s nostalgic four-course celebration of 30 years of Good Food, Good Wine and Good Times.
• HŌSEKI at Delaire Graff Estate’s Nihon Jūdan, an elegant culinary journey through regional Japanese flavours.
• Muratie Farm Kitchen’s Story Room Experience, where exceptional wines, slow-cooked cuisine and heritage storytelling come together.
• Pink Valley Restaurant’s Pink Drinks & Petite Plates experience, pairing rosé wines with beautifully crafted tasting plates.
• Warwick Wine Estate’s signature gourmet slider and wine pairing.
• Lanzerac’s guided Taste Lanzerac experience and Family Style Sundays.
• Klein Joostenberg Bistro’s spectacular long table farm brunch celebrating seasonal produce, artisan charcuterie, oysters and sparkling wine.

But Taste Stellenbosch doesn’t end at the table.

Some places deserve more than a day

Exceptional seasonal accommodation experiences at boutique guesthouses, luxury hotels, vineyard estates and countryside retreats invite visitors to slow down and stay a little longer. Wake up among the vineyards, linger over another breakfast, discover another cellar, book another table and give yourself the greatest luxury of all: another day to experience the flavours, people and unexpected moments that make Stellenbosch unforgettable.

Because the best meals are never rushed. Neither is Stellenbosch.

Taste Stellenbosch accommodation highlights include:

• 10 Alexander B&B: Stay for two nights and savour a third night free at the #1-rated Tripadvisor B&B in Stellenbosch.
• Rozenburg Guesthouse: Stay within walking distance of Stellenbosch’s historic village centre, top restaurants and wineries, and enjoy 30% off your accommodation.
• Spier Wine Farm: Book two nights or more and receive R1,600 credit to indulge across dining, wine and spa experiences.

Discover the full range of participating accommodation at: taste.visitstellenbosch.org/accommodation/

Come hungry. Leave inspired. Return soon.

Taste Stellenbosch runs from 1 August to 20 September 2026.

Discover the full programme of dining experiences, accommodation packages and seasonal inspiration at: taste.visitstellenbosch.org

ENDS

About Visit Stellenbosch

Visit Stellenbosch is the official destination marketing organisation for Stellenbosch, working in partnership with tourism businesses, local government and industry stakeholders to position Stellenbosch as one of South Africa’s leading year-round leisure, lifestyle and business events destinations. Through strategic destination marketing, visitor services and industry collaboration, Visit Stellenbosch inspires travellers to discover the region’s exceptional wine, award-winning culinary experiences, rich heritage, vibrant culture and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Media enquiries

Roland Muller: roland@bigambitions.co.za

Madalene Manuel: madalene@bigambitions.co.za

For more information about Taste Stellenbosch, visit taste.visitstellenbosch.org

It’s a beautiful picture, yes, but it tells only part of the story.

The Stellenbosch that reveals itself to those who look a little deeper, who wake early and follow a river instead of a map, is something else entirely. A place of genuine surprise, where the most memorable moments were never on the itinerary.

According to Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch:

“Stellenbosch has always been extraordinary. What has changed is the invitation. This year, we are moving beyond the highlights reel and asking a more meaningful question: what happens when you stop ticking boxes and start paying attention? The answer, captured in our promise of ‘Unexpected Firsts. Unforgettable Moments,’ is what this town has always quietly offered. Some places you visit. Stellenbosch, you experience.”

Here is what a single day of paying attention might actually look like – just one example of the thousands of incredible, unexpected “firsts” that await…

Sunrise: The Valley That Wakes Before the Town Does

There is a quieter, more intimate side of Stellenbosch that reveals itself in the early hours of the day.

Before the estates open their gates and the coffee shops pull back their shutters, the Dwarsrivier Valley (a stretch of raw, unhurried landscape framed by the Simonsberg mountains and threaded by the Dwars River) is already alive, offering the kind of stillness that makes you aware of your own breathing.

Accessible via the R310, roughly 10 to 20 kilometres from the town centre, the valley draws trail runners and mountain bikers who understand something others are only beginning to discover: that this landscape, at this specific time, is one of the most beautiful places in South Africa.

There are trails of varying lengths for both mountain bikers and runners, winding through rocky singletrack and open farmland with elevation gains that reward the effort with panoramic views across the valley floor. The paths suit a range of fitness levels, and local guides are available for those who prefer company over solitude.

Morning: A Gallery with No Walls

Come mid-morning, after a comforting cuppa and an energising breakfast, you can choose to follow the Eerste River and let it lead you somewhere special.

The Stellenbosch Art Mile is a 1.6-kilometre open-air gallery that runs along the riverbank from the Krige Street pedestrian bridge to the Coetzenburg bridge, crossing six bridges beneath a canopy of trees. It’s free and open around the clock, and it asks nothing of you except that you pay attention.

Various South African artists have placed their work along this route, including interactive metal sculptures and site-specific pieces tied to the river’s geology and history. Recent themes have explored concepts of reflection, time, and the layered human relationship with landscape. QR codes on many of the works connect to the artists directly, but there’s no gift shop and no queue.

For those who want to extend the morning, the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden sits just a short drive away on Paradyskloof Road: seven hectares of indigenous fynbos and mountain views populated by more than 60 bronze sculptures exploring wilderness and the deeper terrain of the human psyche. Visits are by appointment only, which means you’ll never share the encounter with a crowd.

Together, the two experiences form something rare: an art morning that feels genuinely discovered rather than consumed.

Midday: The Table You Were Not Expecting

Forget, for a moment, everything the word “tasting” conjures.

In the Kayamandi township, just minutes from the centre of Stellenbosch, Nocawe Piedt opens her home and her table to visitors in a way that changes what hospitality means in this part of the world. This is the Township & Village home dining experience, and it’s unlike anything else available in the Winelands.

The table is laden with traditional Xhosa dishes, like pap, chakalaka, samp, stew, spinach with potatoes, pumpkin with sweet corn, and chicken feet, alongside amagwinya, the traditional Xhosa beer that has been poured at celebrations here for generations. There’s dancing, drumming, storytelling, and the particular warmth of a community that has chosen to share its culture not as a performance, but as a genuine act of welcome.

It’s the most unexpected lunch in the Winelands. It is also, for many who experience it, the most unforgettable.

Afternoon: A Tasting That Tastes Like South Africa

The conventional wine tasting is not what Vergenoegd Löw had in mind when they created their Indigenous Tasting.

Spekboom. Bokkoms. Roosterkoek. Kaiings. Amasi. Dexter biltong. Kei apple. The Indigenous Tasting draws on ingredients that have sustained communities across southern Africa for centuries. Flavours that most visitors have never encountered and that most tasting rooms would never think to serve. Each element is paired with estate-grown wines that reflect what Vergenoegd Löw calls their “merroir”: the particular character of this specific place and this specific soil.

It’s a tasting that asks a quiet but significant question: how well do you actually know this land?

The answer, for most visitors, is not as well as they thought. Which is precisely the point.

Sunset: The Street That Becomes a Living Room

As the light turns golden and the oak trees cast long shadows across Drostdy Street, something shifts in Stellenbosch. The energy is contagious and everyone, locals and visitors alike, comes together to laugh, eat, sip, chat, and simply enjoy the moment.

The Stellenbosch Street Soirées, a summertime highlight, are among the most joyful expressions of what this town truly is at its core: a community that genuinely enjoys itself. Wine tokens in hand, visitors graze on street food and find themselves in conversations they never planned to have with people they never expected to meet.

No itinerary leads here, and no booking is required. You simply follow the music and let the evening unfold.

It is the perfect final note for a day that began in a misty valley and moved through river art, a township kitchen, and an indigenous wine pairing. A day that looked nothing like the Stellenbosch most visitors would imagine, and everything like the one they will spend years trying to describe to people who were not there.

Stellenbosch is only 40 minutes from Cape Town, or a scenic 25-minute helicopter transfer away, placing you within easy reach of your next unforgettable moment. For more information on experiences, visit www.visitstellenbosch.org

-ENDS-

Media Contact: visitstellenbosch@bigambitions.co.za     

• Year-round connectivity from Johannesburg to Jamestown
• Seasonal boost with weekly flights from Cape Town between December and March
• Allows long-term planning for travellers and tourism industry
• Flights can be booked up to 360 days in advance

South Africa – St Helena Tourism is pleased to announce, in partnership with our airline partner Airlink, the release of an 18-month forward flight schedule to St Helena Island. This schedule provides visitors and residents with enhanced visibility of planned flight operations, offering greater confidence and flexibility when planning travel to one of the world’s most unique and remote destinations.

Under the schedule, Airlink will continue to operate its regular weekly Saturday service between Johannesburg (JNB) and St Helena (HLE), maintaining consistent connectivity between the island and mainland Africa.

In addition, from mid-December 2026 through to the mid-March 2027, Airlink will introduce a seasonal Tuesday return service between Cape Town and St Helena, catering to increased travel demand during the southern summer months.

While the published schedule extends 18 months into the future, it is important to note that flights can only be booked up to 360 days in advance, in line with Airlink’s booking system. Travellers and tourism operators can therefore plan ahead with confidence, knowing flight timings and service frequencies well beyond the current booking window.

This expanded scheduling horizon marks a significant step in supporting the island’s growing tourism sector and strengthening links with South Africa and beyond. By offering longer-term visibility of flight operations, the island’s businesses, tour operators, and hospitality partners can better prepare for upcoming travel seasons.

“This 18-month schedule demonstrates our continued collaboration with Airlink and our shared commitment to making St Helena more accessible to travellers from across the globe,” said Minister Karl Thrower, Minister for Economic Development for St Helena. “It reflects the island’s steady growth as a distinctive, authentic travel destination offering a unique blend of history, culture, marine, hiking, conservation, and adventure activities.”

Katherine Whelan, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlink, added: “We are proud to continue connecting St Helena to the world through our Johannesburg and seasonal Cape Town services. The release of this extended schedule gives travellers the confidence to plan well in advance and supports the island’s ongoing tourism and economic development. St Helena is a remarkable destination, and Airlink is delighted to play a role in opening it up to more visitors.”

Bookings can be made directly via the Airlink website or through your local travel agent.

ENDS

St Helena is one of the world’s most remote islands. It is a subtropical paradise where the mountainous terrain and microclimates create an astounding diversity of landscapes all within a few minutes’ drive. Boasting clean air, a sparkling ocean environment, and a safe community (pop. 4,439), St Helena is an off-the-beaten-track, bucket-list destination. Boasting more than 500 plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth, the island is also renowned for its diving and marine experiences. Additionally, St Helena is home to Jonathan the Tortoise, the world’s oldest living land animal! 

For further information on travel to St Helena, including entry requirements and visitor experiences, please visit [www.sthelenatourism.com].

Issued by

Big Ambitions Marketing

Email: sthelena@bigambitions.co.za 

Notes to editors: 

For any trade or media enquiries, please contact: roland@bigambitions.co.za     

For more tourism information about St Helena please, visit www.sthelenatourism.com

Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin, chair of the judging panel and founder of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT), said responsible tourism is about making better places for people to live in and visit.

“All of the Global Responsible Tourism Award winners have explained what they took responsibility for, what they did and with what impact. We hope they will inspire other organisations to follow in their footsteps,” said Goodwin.

This recognition caps a breakthrough year in which T&V has so far channelled more than R1,000,000 in cash payments directly to local community partners – guides, hosts, cooks, artists and other entrepreneurs – through paid bookings and donations from guests, T&V and our partners.

“This award belongs to the people who make the experiences – our guides, hosts, cooks, musicians and storytellers,” said René Momberg, Head of Growth, Experiences & Partnerships at T&V. “The Global Silver recognises a consistent, collective effort by our community entrepreneurs, the Greater Stellenbosch Trust and other strategic partners that powers the work we do.”

“Our model for T&V is simple: co‑create with communities, keep the economics fair, and sell to the right buyers,” added Leana Kotze, Head of Strategy & Implementation at Greater Stellenbosch Trust (GST), T&V’s sole shareholder and long‑term backer. “With the right ecosystem support, responsible tourism amplifies every rand invested into community earnings. In 2025 we’ve seen this backing translate into at least five times that value in real local earnings.”

“Township and Village proves that responsible tourism isn’t a ‘nice-to-have’; it’s a powerful economic engine that creates dignity, ownership and sustainable livelihood,” said Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch. “As Stellenbosch’s tourism offering expands, T&V gives us the blueprint for ensuring that growth serves everyone, from the storytellers of Kayamandi to the artisans of Ida’s Valley. The T&V enterprise creates pathways to prosperity that honour our communities’ heritage while providing unique, enriching visitor experiences. That’s community tourism leadership at its finest!”

Powered by people and partners

None of this is possible without our community partners across Kayamandi, Ida’s Valley, Kylemore, Pniël and Jamestown – the entrepreneurs who open their communities and homes, share their stories and co‑own the experiences.

We also acknowledge our current and historic strategic partners whose patronage makes inclusive tourism work: the Greater Stellenbosch Trust, Cause Development Agency, Visit Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality, Stellenbosch Municipality, Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the Western Cape (DEDAT) and Old Mutual Foundation.

The story of this year (highlights)

• Quality demand, real earnings: Large group bookings from Edwin Doran Sports Tours and Fairfield Tours, plus spectacular craft‑shop sales put consistent money into local hands.
• Experiences made with – not for – communities: Constant renewal and refinement of offers across home dining, heritage walks, music and craft in all communities we work in.
• People before product: A new guide cohort trained and mentored with regional partners – building careers, not just shifts.
• Doing it right: Completion of the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism-sponsored Sustainable Tourism Enterprise Programme (STEP) and adoption of a robust policy suite.

About Township & Village

Township & Village is a community‑based tourism initiative in Stellenbosch that co‑creates and delivers experiences led by local residents – from heritage walks and storytelling evenings to home dining, music and craft. The model prioritises dignity, ownership and fair economics for community partners and aligns with international responsible tourism standards.

Media enquiries & bookings
Website: townshipandvillage.co.za
Email: reservations@townshipandvillage.co.za
Insta and FB: @townshipandvillage

Notes to editors

• Awards: Responsible Tourism Awards 2025 – Global Silver (Peace, Understanding & Inclusivity; sponsored by Sabre); WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2025 – Gold (same category).
• 2025 milestone: R1,000,000+ paid in cash directly to community partners (Jan–Oct 2025).
• Media assets: High‑res images and interviews on request.

ENDS

Stellenbosch, 10 October 2025 – One of South Africa’s most captivating garden lifestyle celebrations, Garden Town Stellenbosch, returns from 31 October to 9 November 2025, promising to dazzle garden lovers, green-fingered enthusiasts and families alike. Organised by Visit Stellenbosch, this flagship event features the expanded Stellenbosch Garden Show & Market; a vibrant, must-see highlight of the botanical celebration.

Set against the striking backdrop of Stellenbosch’s historic Town Hall, the 2025 Garden Market will once again delight visitors with a tranquil tea garden and a curated selection of plants, gardening treasures, décor, and inspiration. As the lively heart of Garden Town Stellenbosch, the Market anchors a celebration that comes to life across the town’s gardens, venues, and open spaces. This year’s event ups the ante with immersive displays, hands-on workshops, and a jampacked programme that celebrates the joy and beauty of gardening in all its forms.

The Garden Market: A Botanical Treasure Trove

A paradise for plant lovers and taste makers (or inspiration hunters), the Garden Market brings together over 60 curated stalls offering:

• A wide selection of indoor and outdoor plants
• Rare and indigenous plant species
• Art, botanical home decor and crafts
• Tasty culinary treats and artisanal food products

Complete your Garden Show experience with a cup of tea and cake at the charming tea garden, set among the display installations at the Town Hall.

Award-winning Display Gardens

Visitors can explore immersive gardens by some of South Africa’s most celebrated landscape designers, including:

• Life Green Group, recipient of the South African Landscapers’ Institute (SALI) Double Gold Award and 2025 Trophy for Best Interior Plant scaping Project in South Africa, bring sophisticated and sustainable design to life inside Town Hall.
• Alan Dawson Gardens, multiple 2025 SALI Gold winners and Overall Winner of the SALI Awards of Excellence, will showcase the acclaimed “House Venn Coniston” project that merges luxury with ecological sensitivity.

Rooted in Knowledge: Events & Workshops

At the heart of this year’s Garden Show programme, the Town Hall series brings together leading voices in sustainable gardening, food systems and rewilding. Experts Loubie Rusch, Nikki Brighton and Sue Buckland share practical insights on indigenous edibles, foraging and climate‑resilient gardening – inspiring visitors to grow and live more lightly on the land.

Beyond the Town Hall, Garden Town extends throughout Stellenbosch with guided walks, creative workshops and unique experiences across farms, vineyards and gardens.

Highlights include:

• Peace of Me Mosaic Birdfeeder Workshop – create a beautiful mosaic birdfeeder with Kim Schwerdtfeger on 1 November.
• Birding with Jacques Gilliomee – a serene morning of birding at Weltevreden Estate, led by expert birder Jacques Gilliomee.
• Guided walks with Diane Harper – experience the beauty of the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (usually open by private appointment only) with knowledgeable guide Diane Harper.
• Garden Town Vineyard Run on 8 November – a scenic trail run through the Bottelary Hills Vineyards and Renosterveld from Neethlingshof Wine Estate.
• Zevenwacht 4×4 Wine Adventures – exhilarating 4×4 tours through critically endangered Swartland Granite Renosterveld, followed by wine tasting and a charcuterie platter.
• Spier Food Garden Self-Harvesting – harvest your own produce from the food garden on Tuesday to Saturday mornings between 9-11am.

Don’t Miss: The Iconic Flower Parade on 4 November

A bloom-filled highlight, the annual Flower Parade will start at Die Braak on 4 November 2025 from 6.15pm to 7pm. Bring your family, wear your most whimsical flower crown, decorate your bike or pram, and join the joyful pageant of petals parading through the town centre. This free event invites everyone to celebrate the power and beauty of nature, Stellenbosch style!

This year’s parade is made even more special as the winners and participants of the annual Mayoral Gardening Competition will once again be announced and celebrated at the end of the parade, inspiring us all to nurture our own green spaces.

Exclusive Garden Visits

Explore both private and public gardens throughout Stellenbosch offering insights into design, sustainability and indigenous planting techniques.

Garden Town Stellenbosch 2025 is more than a garden show; it’s a vibrant community movement celebrating the harmony between people and plants, creativity and conservation. Whether you’re a horticulturist, a home gardener, or simply hungry for a breath of fresh air and flowers, this is an event not to be missed.

“Our vision for Garden Town is to create a space where sustainability, culture, wellness and beauty meet,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch. “Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply someone who delights in nature, this celebration belongs to you.”

Stay tuned for more updates, full programme, ticketing and workshops at http://gardentown.visitstellenbosch.org

-ENDS-

For more information, visit www.visitstellenbosch.org.

Issued by Big Ambitions Marketing

Media Contact: roland@bigambitions.co.za or madalene@bigambitions.co.za

Stellenbosch, Western Cape – 27 August 2025: This September, Stellenbosch is not claiming the title of South Africa’s Food & Wine Capital. It is reminding everyone why it holds it. Taste Stellenbosch is a month-long, valley-wide celebration of the destination’s enduring culinary excellence, cellar-door mastery and innovative spirit. From award-winning restaurants and trailblazing chefs to historic vineyards and pioneering wine estates, Stellenbosch continues to set the standard for taste, creativity and hospitality.

From 1–30 September 2025, over 30 of the region’s restaurants are dishing up spring offers that’ll make you weak at the knees. Expect a feast of tasting menus, chef’s tables, and seasonal platters that reflect a deep connection to place, people and produce.

Daniël Kriel, Chairman of Taste Stellenbosch, believes Stellenbosch has earned its stripes as the perfect destination for both casual foodies and serious gastronomes.

“Our exceptional culinary offering has developed over generations and is built on history and heritage, creating a depth and richness that is unique. This is very similar to the development of the great wines from this region – and in Stellenbosch food and wine go hand in hand,” says Kriel. “No wonder this region is regarded as SA’s food and wine capital.”

For Kriel, this depth and richness is evident in the wide range of dining options, styles and experiences on offer. “Visitors are spoiled for choice. In Stellenbosch you can find everything – from authentic samosas to gourmet burgers to internationally acclaimed fine dining establishments. The local restaurant industry caters for every taste, budget and mood.”

“Whether on one of the wine farms, on a pavement under the oaks or inside one of our vibrant casual eateries, the golden thread that binds this diverse offering together is food prepared with passion and love!” says Kriel. “This is what our sponsors have also realised. We are excited to have Capitec on board for the campaign in September.”

“It’s awesome to be part of something that backs local businesses and shines a light on the stories behind Stellenbosch’s impressive culinary scene,” says JJ Booysen, Head: SME Payment Acceptance at Capitec.

September’s Culinary Showstoppers

Throughout Taste Stellenbosch, the variety and calibre of experiences on offer reflect why the town’s flavour truly reigns supreme:

Dusk, fresh from earning a coveted three-star rating from Eat Out, has created an Odyssey Tasting Menu that’s best described as culinary poetry. New dishes, seasonal ingredients, and pairings that’ll redefine what you thought possible.

Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira is serving up temptation on a plate – a 250g sirloin with Café de Paris butter, hand-cut fries, fresh chef’s salad and a glass of their exquisite Jordan the Long Fuse Cabernet Sauvignon 2019.

The Garden Restaurant at Delheim invites guests to experience their intriguing “Kurktafel” which includes a 2.5 km walk between the estate’s fynbos, a three-course heritage menu and a reserve wine tasting. Fresh air and flavours combining for a perfect lunch in the vineyards.

Lievland Vineyards is laying on the love at their Lievland Café with a spring brunch from 8am to 11.30am every day – perfect for alfresco catch-ups with family and friends (made more perfect by their delightful collection of ‘mismatched animals’ grazing in the paddocks beyond).

Spek & Bone is making Tuesdays and Saturdays the most coveted nights in Stellenbosch with 50% off their legendary Chef’s set menu. This lively wine bar, tucked away in a hidden courtyard lit with fairy lights, serves up bold-flavoured tapas that’ll have you questioning why you eat anywhere else. This is your chance to experience their famous seven-plate journey at half the price – because exceptional dining shouldn’t be reserved for special occasions.

Dewarenmarkt is dedicating the entire month of September to celebrating one of the Cape’s most treasured indigenous ingredients – the waterblommetjie. Every single day, they’re transforming this delicate water flower into culinary art with Waterblommetjie & Sorrel Soup, crispy Waterblommetjie Tempura, and their signature Waterblommetjie Bredie with lamb knuckle. It’s a daily love letter to Stellenbosch’s deep-rooted food heritage!

Klein Joostenberg Bistro is pulling out all the stops for what they’re calling “the best, boldest brunch in the Boland” – butchers, bakers, and chefs combining forces under the guidance of Garth Bedford and Christophe Dehosse on Friday, 19 September.

“This is just a small amuse-bouche of what Stellenbosch has planned,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch.

“A wide range of Stellenbosch’s favourite coffee shops and eateries are also participating alongside recognised names like Bertus Basson’s Chorus, Kantien and Eike,” says Liebenberg. “It’s an exciting time to visit. Restaurants like Jordan and Dusk are receiving international acclaim, young, up-and-coming chefs are making their mark, and local gems are waiting to be discovered. Taste Stellenbosch gives visitors the chance to experience all of this in one unforgettable month.”

The Chefs Are Talking

Bertus Basson agrees:

“Taste Stellenbosch celebrates what already makes Stellenbosch special – its community of passionate chefs, winemakers and artisans who have been creating extraordinary experiences for years,” says Basson. “Food has this incredible power to bring people together and tell the story of a place.”

Perfect Timing for the Perfect Destination

Spring in Stellenbosch is a celebration in itself, with warm days, fresh seasonal produce and a calendar that blends vineyard life with world-class dining. For food lovers seeking authentic experiences and travellers who believe the best way to understand a destination is through its cuisine, Taste Stellenbosch is the ultimate way to savour the capital of flavour, one unforgettable plate and glass at a time.

Media Contact: roland@bigambitions.co.za or madalene@bigambitions.co.za

For more information about Taste Stellenbosch and participating restaurants, visit https://taste.visitstellenbosch.org/

STELLENBOSCH, Western Cape – Think the mid-year school holidays are over and there’s nothing left to look forward to until December? Think again. South Africa’s premier wine region is busy curating a compelling events calendar to see us through to the end of the year – and it’s an irresistible invitation to visit more, stay longer, and immerse yourself in experiences that nourish both body and soul.

“Visit Stellenbosch’s seasonal Stay and Play specials are still going strong,” says Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch.

“It’s the perfect excuse to experience Stellenbosch in winter, and connect more meaningfully with our place, our people, and our culture – which comes alive through wine, art, music, literature and heartfelt hospitality. It’s more than just a visit, it’s a chance to slow down and discover the stories, flavours and people that make this region so extraordinary.”

At the end of July, Wine Town Stellenbosch (26 July to 3 August) unfolds as a nine-day celebration across the region. On the to-do list are specialised wine tours, workshops, and curated vertical tastings, along with winemaker lunches and dinners, special offers at restaurants around town, and exclusive tastings available only during the event. Wine Town Stellenbosch is also the reason why Happy Hour is in full swing from 17:00 to 19:00 at selected wine bars and restaurants.

Crowning the festivities is the Stellenbosch Wine Festival, taking place on Friday, 1 August, and Saturday, 2 August. Visitors can taste some 200 wines from over 60 producers, featuring not only the region’s most renowned names but also exciting first-time participants in the event like Raats Family Wines, Hidden Valley Wines, and De Meye Vineyards. Once again, a highlight of the event is the abundant graze-table of traditional savouries and sweets by chefs Adele Grewar and Bertus Basson, continuously replenished throughout the event. With live entertainment adding to the atmosphere, the festival promises an experience as memorable as the wines themselves.

“This is our annual ‘celebration of the grape’,” explains Elmarie Rabe, GM Stellenbosch Wine Routes. “This year we’re also celebrating 100 years of Pinotage. For Pinotage lovers who want to learn more about the history of Pinotage and discover different estates, unique varietals and interesting pairings – it makes for a perfect few days away.”

Taste Stellenbosch (1 to 30 September) gives the valley’s culinary heritage a full month in the spotlight. It’s a chance for participating restaurants to unveil new menus and showcase their exceptional talent – and for visitors to experience the seasonal produce, bold flavours, and deep-rooted traditions that inspire Stellenbosch’s award-winning chefs.

Come October, Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees (11-19 October) fills the town with the magic of storytelling, literature, theatre, art, dance and film. Now in its 25^th year, Woordfees began in 2000 at Stellenbosch University as an all-night celebration of Afrikaans word art. Over the past 25 years, it has grown into one of the largest arts festivals in Africa, attracting around 50 000 festivalgoers annually.

“This year we have a few surprises in store,” says Liebenberg. “Our beloved ‘Wynskool’ masterclasses are back with Bubby 101, Chenin Blanc 101 and Pinotage 101 sessions, plus we’re adding something really special – a ‘stapstories’ walking tour through the beautiful Banghoek Conservancy with Sophia van Taak and a Woordfees Straatsoiree that will officially launch Stellenbosch’s exciting season of Street Soirees.”

Garden Town is set to return from 31 October to 9 November 2025, with stunning displays, private garden tours and a market at the town hall.

Celebrating life in Stellenbosch

Alongside Visit Stellenbosch’s flagship events, walking tours, bike tours and dining experiences in Stellenbosch and its surrounding communities (including Kayamandi, Jamestown and the Dwarsrivier Valley), offer visitors different perspectives on local life.

Stellenbosch on Foot provides an immersive historical journey through Cape Dutch architecture and significant sites, perfect for understanding how this beautiful agricultural and academic town has evolved over the years.

For those seeking authentic cultural connection, Kayamandi on Foot’s local guides share stories of daily life, traditions, and resilience while serving home-cooked flavours with warm hospitality.

The Bites and Sites cultural tours blend storytelling with culinary exploration, celebrating the diverse heritage that shaped modern Stellenbosch through biltong tastings, artisanal coffee, family recipes, and local wine pairings.

And of course, Stellenbosch’s mild weather makes outdoor exploration irresistible. Cycling enthusiasts can glide through vineyards with Bikes ‘n Wines, join small-group rides with Best Day Ever, or e-bike from Stellenbosch to Boschendal. Prefer hiking? The stunning trails of Jonkershoek Nature Reserve await or try Segway tours through the vines.

“Our mild winter weather lends itself to outdoor adventures,” says Liebenberg. “And when it rains, it’s the perfect chance to connect with local winemakers, artists, and characters who bring our town to life.”

The Art of Slow Travel

Ultimately, winter in Stellenbosch is about family fun, unplanned moments, conversations that stretch over harvest tables, and new experiences that take you well into spring, summer and beyond.

For more information about Stellenbosch’s winter offerings and Stay and Play packages, visit https://stayandplay.visitstellenbosch.org/

For media inquiries, please contact Roland Müller at roland@bigambitions.co.za.

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Six months in and they were clearly onto something. Hotel restaurants around the world are earning Michelin stars, attracting new culinary talent, designing unforgettable experiences (the kind you fly across the world for), and becoming destinations in their own right.

“It’s almost impossible to cherry pick examples,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa. “There definitely is a global renaissance underway, with hotel dining a significant ‘driver’ or ‘decider’ when it comes to accommodation bookings, especially for foodies.”

For Turner, you just have to look to Dubai’s St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, a luxury hotel on Palm Jumeirah which has fast become a gastronomic destination like no other.

“St Regis Gardens at the hotel is home to six remarkable restaurants, including Trèsind Studio, which has just become the first Indian three Michelin Star restaurant in the world,” explains Turner.

“But this just a taste of what’s on offer. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi have vibrant culinary scenes, with visitors keen to experience Mimi Kakushi (Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach), Prime 68 (on the 68th floor of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai), Shang Palace (at the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi) and Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi (Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi).

South Africa has been experiencing its own culinary awakening over the last few years – and hotels have entered the mix. For local, regional and international visitors looking to book a bed – and table – somewhere special, look no further.

In no particular order, here are a selection of our top picks:

Hotel: Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank

Restaurant: Proud Mary

Proud Mary, located within Rosebank’s boho beauty, Hyde Johannesburg, kicked off 2025 by winning “Hotel Restaurant of the Year” in South Africa’s Luxe Restaurant Awards.

“I’m not exaggerating when I say Proud Mary has become the beating heart of Rosebank,” says Jessica Redinger, GM of Hyde Johannesburg. “From sunrise cortados to sunset cocktails, the Proud Mary team has created something magical: a space where Johannesburg’s visitors, creatives, business leaders and foodies come together over exceptional cuisine. It’s not just a hotel restaurant anymore – it’s where the neighbourhood gathers. Every element, from our curated South African art to our locally inspired menus tells the story of Rosebank – and Joburg – hospitality. It’s an experience guests love.”

Start your meal with fresh oysters, octopus, or a gourmet charcuterie board – before deciding on small plates to share or the perfect steak. Proud Mary somehow manages to be at once effortlessly stylish and delightfully laidback – meaning you’ll want to settle in and enjoy a special evening with friends.

Hotel: The Mount Nelson

Restaurant: The Red Room

Not nearly enough has been said about the Red Room, Liam Tomlin’s extraordinary space at the “Nellie” in Cape Town. Billed as a Pan-Asian cocktail lounge, visitors descend a red staircase into a new, almost secret world – moody, romantic and oh so 1930s Hong Kong.

“You do feel like you’re stepping into a different time,” says Turner. “The décor, service and food is all part of the experience – one you won’t forget for a long time. Their take on Asian tapas is sublime, and they’re vegan and vegetarian friendly too!”

Hotel: Pullman Cape Town

Restaurant: Konnichiwa

There’s a new sushi spot in town, and you’ll want to get there (run!) as soon as possible. At the helm? Acclaimed shokunin (chef) Ernest Tsosane whose career spans some of South Africa’s most celebrated Asian restaurants, including Nikkei Japanese Peruvian (Cape Town), as well as Johannesburg favourites Koi and Tang.

Konnichiwa’s menu offers a refined selection of Japanese-inspired dishes. Delicate sashimi includes salmon, tuna, prawn, and buttery langoustine, paired with expertly crafted nigiri like wagyu aburi. California rolls range from classics to the signature Rainbow Roll, while maki and crisp handrolls showcase fresh, vibrant flavours. For something unique, the new-style sashimi features citrus-infused seafood options for added depth. In the words of one review, “Holy moly!”

Never one to stand still, Tsosane has now created something special for winter: a mouthwatering seasonal menu that includes chicken yakitori, beef kofta, mushroom skewers, ramen tonkatsu (with Wagyu beef) and a selection of soups. Sound good? Your table awaits.

Hotel: The Oyster Box

Restaurant: The Grill Room

“If you haven’t stayed at The Oyster Box in Umhlanga Rocks, it should definitely be on your bucket list,” says Turner. Guests have to been known to wax lyrical about their breakfast (complete with pancake and waffle station) as well as their world-famous curry buffet in the Ocean Terrace Restaurant. But it’s The Grill Room that makes this list, thanks to a sophisticated fine dining experience that blends classical continental cuisine with gorgeous produce and gracious service.

Hotel: Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof

Restaurant: Ongetem

Whenever Bertus Basson opens a new restaurant, it creates a buzz in culinary circles. And you know it’s going to be special. Just weeks old, Ongetem brings Basson’s love of South African flavours (and the best South African ingredients) to Park Road, just off Kloof Street, and minutes from the Cape Town CBD. It’s brilliant news for locals and visitors alike – and the best example of what a hotel restaurant can – and should – be.

Hotel: The Peech Hotel

Restaurant: The Pot Luck Club

Back in Johannesburg, acclaimed chef Luke Dale Roberts has brought his award-winning ‘The Pot Luck Club’ to The Peech Hotel in Melrose. The menu features many original favourites from the Cape Town restaurant (which you’ll find in Woodstock at The Old Biscuit Mill), as well as some new dishes created especially for Johannesburg – making it the perfect ‘shared dining’ experience.

“Hotels around the world are elevating their dining options,” says Turner. “The hottest restaurants are now in the hottest hotels – and South Africa is no different. It’s incredibly exciting for local and international travellers alike.”

Cape Town, South Africa – 18 June 2025: Pullman Cape Town is proud to announce the appointment of Thuthukile Moloto as its new General Manager. A seasoned leader with global credentials and local roots, she returns home following nearly two years in Saudi Arabia, where she served as Cluster Director of Quality at Marriott International’s Sindalah, part of the NEOM mega-project in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk Province.

Her return marks a powerful “homecoming” for a rising hospitality talent, and signals Pullman Cape Town’s continued investment in inclusive leadership and world-class guest experiences.

Enhancing leisure travel experiences

Pullman Cape Town – the first Pullman hotel in South Africa – has quickly established itself as a premium base in the Mother City, setting benchmarks for guest experience, design, and service. Perfectly positioned at the heart of one of Africa’s top-performing tourism cities, it continues to attract both leisure and business travelers seeking a dynamic blend of location, style, and momentum. With Thuthukile Moloto now joining the leadership team, Pullman Cape Town is poised to build on its strong foundation and ongoing success.

In 2024, Cape Town was named Africa’s Leading City Destination (World Travel Awards) for the fourth consecutive year. And in 2025, it topped Time Out’s global list as Best City in the World, based on feedback from more than 18,000 residents worldwide across culture, food, nightlife, affordability, happiness, and overall atmosphere.

“Pullman merges business-ready infrastructure with lifestyle-led design, all set against one of the continent’s most iconic backdrops,” said Willie Williams, Area Director Sales & Marketing: Pullman Cape Town. “Thuthukile joins us not only as an exceptional operator but also as an inspiring voice within a broader shift toward representative leadership across our industry.”

Thuthukile brings more than 15 years of cross-functional hospitality experience across Africa and the Middle East, including senior roles launching or rebranding properties under major international brands such as Marriott International and Protea Hotels. She has managed diverse teams and overseen operations at flagship city hotels, lifestyle destinations, and large-scale resort projects, demonstrating expertise in both operational excellence and guest engagement.

Her most recent position saw her leading quality operations within NEOM – the world’s most ambitious tourism development zone – where she was responsible for upholding rigorous international standards while adapting to new markets. This breadth of experience has shaped her belief that service excellence must be deeply human-centered, intertwining innovation with genuine care.

“My time working abroad changed my understanding of what true hospitality means,” said Moloto. “If we take that level of detail-driven care and pair it with South Africa’s trademark warmth, especially here in Cape Town, we’ll be unstoppable.”

As General Manager, Thuthukile is committed to positioning Pullman Cape Town as the definitive destination for both leisure and business travelers. Her vision centers on creating memorable guest experiences that incorporate international best practices with authentic local touches, deepening sustainable operations, and building an empowered team culture through mentorship and continuous development. She is most excited about introducing guests from around the world to the essence of South Africa’s Mother City, and about curating experiences at Pullman that reflect both the city’s energy and its distinctive sense of welcome.

Thuthukile’s arrival also coincides with Accor’s expanding She Leads initiative, a global movement dedicated to unlocking female potential through mentorship-driven programming focused on empowerment, equity, and collective progress.

As She Leads gains traction across regions – with recent events held at Pullman in Nairobi and Jeddah – Thuthukile’s appointment underscores Accor’s long-standing commitment to building inclusive pipelines into executive leadership roles.

“As a woman leading a premium property like this one,” Thuthukile shared, “I hope my journey inspires other young professionals to see what’s possible when they’re supported by strong mentors, meaningful opportunities, and courageous ambition.”

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About Pullman

Pullman Hotels & Resorts sets a new tempo in global travel and living, delivering an inspiring, energizing, and enriching experience to new entrepreneurs. Pullman welcomes guests with the space they need to focus, work, and play. Forward-thinking, hyper-connected, and with a passion for art and fitness, Pullman retains the adventurous spirit and open-minded ambition that drove it to become a pioneering travel brand over 150 years ago. Today, Pullman features more than 150 properties in vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations around the world, including flagship properties such as Pullman Paris Montparnasse, Pullman Singapore Orchard, Pullman Suzhou Zhonghui in Greater China, and Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Pullman is part of Accor, a leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless, a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services, and experiences.  

ENDS

Issued by Big Ambitions Marketing

Madalene Manuel – Account Director

Email: madalene@bigambitions.co.za

For more information on Pullman Cape Town, please contact:

Lauren Christians – Area Marketing Manager

Email: lauren.christians@accor.com

For any media enquiries, please contact pullman@bigambitions.co.za