Cape Town is a city known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and—most importantly—its incredible food scene. Among the many culinary hotspots, The Test Kitchen stood out as one of the most talked-about restaurants in South Africa. Created by the legendary Chef Luke Dale-Roberts, this restaurant promised an unforgettable dining experience that blended local flavors with global influences. Naturally, I couldn’t pass up the chance to see what the hype was all about.
First Impressions: A Secret Hideaway
Finding The Test Kitchen felt like stepping into a culinary speakeasy. Tucked away in the trendy Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, the entrance was unassuming—almost hidden. But once inside, the atmosphere was electric. The space was modern, moody, and intimate, with an open kitchen that allowed diners to witness the artistry behind each dish.
The restaurant was divided into two sections: The Dark Room and The Light Room. The meal began in The Dark Room, where we enjoyed a series of beautifully crafted small bites in a cozy, dimly lit space before moving to The Light Room for the main courses. This concept made the entire evening feel like a multi-sensory journey, rather than just another fine dining experience.
The Dark Room: A Flavor Explosion
As we settled into The Dark Room, we were presented with a selection of amuse-bouches that were both playful and intriguing. The standout was a smoked snoek pâté served on crispy seaweed—a nod to South Africa’s coastal seafood traditions. The deep, smoky fish flavor paired with the crunch of the seaweed was unlike anything I’d tasted before.
Another highlight was the biltong-dusted tuna tartare—a perfect fusion of local and international flavors. The rich, umami-packed tuna was balanced by the salty, spiced notes of the biltong seasoning, creating an addictive bite that left me wanting more.
The Light Room: Art on a Plate
After our immersive start, we moved to The Light Room, where the full tasting menu unfolded. Each dish was a masterpiece, both visually and in taste.
1. Cape Malay-Spiced Kingklip
South Africa is known for its Cape Malay cuisine, and this dish was a perfect representation of its bold flavors. The kingklip, a local white fish, was delicately spiced and grilled to perfection, served with a fragrant coconut curry sauce and roasted butternut. Every bite was rich, slightly sweet, and packed with warmth.
2. Springbok with Rooibos Jus
I couldn’t visit Cape Town without trying springbok, and The Test Kitchen’s version was phenomenal. The tender, lean meat was cooked perfectly rare and served with a rooibos-infused jus, adding an earthy depth to the dish. It was paired with a silky sweet potato purée and a touch of honey-roasted pecans, making it one of the most memorable dishes of the night.
3. Baobab and Amarula Dessert
The meal ended with a tribute to African ingredients—a baobab panna cotta with an Amarula caramel drizzle. The creamy, slightly tangy baobab worked beautifully with the rich, vanilla-like sweetness of Amarula, creating the perfect ending to an extraordinary meal.
