The way I see it, winter time in Cape Town can be approached in a few different ways but basically, you have two options – you either dislike it intensely (I’m not a fan of the H-word) or you love it. As I’m more of a summer person, I can’t say that I enjoy the freezing weather, but there is a silver lining. Oh yes! Winter time is that special time of year when many restaurants introduce amazing Winter Menus to coax you into leaving the comfort of your couch and warm home to brave the elements in search of a delicious meal. The usual hefty price tag that is reduced to something that the average person can afford is what clinches the deal! Now what’s not to love about a great meal at a great price, preferably beside a roaring fire and red wine?

So when Aussie blogger Shona from paraphernalia.co contacted me about being a Guest Blogger for her new monthly feature “Fine Dining for Less”, I jumped at the chance! No need to ask me twice to dine somewhere fab and indulge in delectable dishes at less than the usual price. After doing some online research, I narrowed down my options and decided to try Catharina’s at Steenberg. Catharina’s has always been on my foodie bucket list and I’m so happy I’ve been able to tick it off. Having said that, this most certainly won’t be my first and last time I’ll be dining there. I had such a lovely experience from start to end that they will definitely see me again, hopefully with a plus one or group of friends!

Unfortunately, my dining partner was unable to join me at the last moment. So off I set on a cold, wet Wednesday morning to savour the culinary delights at Catharina’s. But there’s no need to sorry for me. I actually enjoy dining solo from time to time. My week had already been super busy so it was a treat to just sit and relax in the beautiful and elegant restaurant with a roaring fire on the go (I seriously have a thing for fireplaces!).

I arrived a few minutes earlier than expected – for once the traffic was light and free-flowing. So naturally I stopped to take a few photos while it wasn’t raining. You may only be about 20 – 30 minutes from the city centre, but it feels like another world out in the lush and scenic Constantia Valley. The beautiful mountains and vines, along with the perfectly manicured gardens and lawns at Steenberg had a wonderful calming effect on me.

I was warmly greeted at the restaurant’s Reception area by the Restaurant Manager and shown to my table. It was right beside the fire and as much as I love them, I asked to move to a table a bit further away as I get far too warm being so close to the heat. Once settled in with a lovely view of the vineyards and mountains, my friendly waitress arrived with the menus and advised me about their Winter Menu. I already had an idea what I wanted to order, but had a quick peek at their A La Carte menu to see what else they had to offer. I’m an oyster lover of note so when I saw Saldanha Bay Oysters freshly shucked to order, I just couldn’t resist! Paired with a heavenly Steenberg Ruby Rosé 2016, I thoroughly enjoyed them.

This award-winning restaurant has the good fortune to have talented Scottish Executive Chef Archie Maclean at the helm. He joined Catharina’s in April 2016 and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. His impressive resume boasts a 3-year apprenticeship under Michelin-starred chef, David Evans.  He has cooked an array of various cuisines all over the world, from Scotland to Australia and New Zealand, and during the last decade, all over South Africa. These include The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais working alongside Executive Chef Margot Janse, Asara for 12 months, the Kruger National Park (Singita, Lebombo and Sweni) and Head Chef at Neethlingshof. When it comes to ingredients, he says he shows no favouritism, as long as they are absolutely fresh. He enjoys mixing things up in the kitchen with regards to the ingredients and type of cuisine and surprising his diners with the unexpected.

Beautifully presented dishes cooked simply with the freshest produce and finest ingredients are what keep eager foodies coming back for more. Along with the extensive wine list that has won many awards over the years, attentive and friendly service and the contemporary, inviting décor that tells a fascinating visual story of the feisty Catharina Ras, the founder of Steenberg in the 17^th century.

Now for the main event – be prepared for a tasty feast! Choose from a mouthwatering two or three course lunch for only R165 and R195 respectively. Yes, that’s right. Your eyes are not deceiving you – this is NOT a typo! For starters, choose from Soup of the Day, Crumbed Mushrooms or Caesar Salad. My Crumbed Mushrooms with a spiced cous cous and lemon and garlic butter were a treat.

For Mains, one can choose between the Curried Seafood Risotto, Sirloin Steak or Chicken Burger with hand cut chips. This was an easy choice for me as I adore risotto and had never tried a curried version. The subtle and fragrant curry flavour took this seafood risotto to another level! It was so divine. If you’re a risotto fan like I am, then you’ll enjoy this twist to the usual creamy mushroom version.

I decided to stick to the lighter Steenberg Ruby Rosé 2016 for my main course as I was driving. A spicy red would’ve been a good pairinig for the risotto. The choice of desserts looked delightful but sadly I had no space left for sweet treats – Crème Brulee, a selection of 3 Seasonal Sorbets or the Chocolate Cremeux. I’ll have to try one of these on my next visit.

Be sure to make a reservation so you too can experience all that Catharina’s has to offer. On cool winter days, stay warm beside the roaring fire. Alfresco dining beneath the oak trees is a must during the balmy summer months. You may just spot a resident owl or two. This special deal is valid from Monday – Saturday from 12.00pm – 15.00pm and runs until 30 November 2017.

Catharina’s is the perfect place for any occasion, whether you come along with a group of friends to enjoy a leisurely meal or a quiet lunch for two. Either way, I think you’ll have such a lovely time; you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even left!

Please note: Winter Closure from 26 June 2017 – 9 July 2017