Indochine, the dining space for the hotel and spa alongside the winery, offers an Asian cuisine alternative in sophisticated wood and blue leather tones, with copper-top tables, bamboo wall cladding and a big fireplace; while the deck again boasts superb views and there’s a lawn with a pride of Dylan Lewis cheetahs roaming. Round “love seat” tables are attractive, less so the Asian spa muzak. The duty manager set an awkward tone over a telephonic conversation about an employee, but then made up for much by apologising for the building noise (kitchen expansions), only then to over-sell the estate wines’ many awards somewhat. The meal began with an awful steamed bun but then settled in with an excellent tofu and mushroom salad (R70), beautifully presented. Alongside the griddled tofu were umami-rich Asian mushrooms and edible flowers, skinned tomato and an arrangement of leaves. My main course was a tamarind sirloin (R135), the steak sliced and topped with red onion and redolent with an integrated blend of lemon grass, soy, red onion and tamarind – all atop noodles. A side dish of “Thai pickled shallots” (R30) was generous, the sides are clearly to share. Other options on the menu include soups (Tom Yum two ways), a variety of salads (chicken and citrus, prawn and papaya) and four curries plus desserts that feature fruits. The food quality is high, making this option a real contender to the main restaurant, and a winner if you are a lover of Asian flavours. 021 885 8160. Daily lunch and dinner.
