There are many levels to Tokara.
The beauty of the view that the architectural masterpiece throws in front of you. The arty coolness of
the interior and then… the food.
Richard Carstens is South Africa’s most famous magical gastronomist and quite honestly
one of the nicest knife wielding professionals I have ever met. I somehow thought he’d float in on a cloud of
liquid nitro but instead he chatted cheerfully whilst showing me around his
high tech kitchen.
Sommelier Jaap-Henk Koelewijn was our knowledgeable and warm
host and he held our hands where wine was concerned and paired us through an
array of stunning food.
The food
There are 2 sections to the menu – the ‘normal’ side and the
fantastical one.
The ‘normal’ (and quite lovely) one is simpler than Richard’s usual playful
standards and comprises of larger ‘Paarl-sized’ portions. Being set in the winelands he has had to simplify this part of his menu to accommodate people who
aren’t perhaps into experimental cuisine and used to larger portions.
The tasting menu is a tribute to
flavour, colour and texture – quite
beautiful to all the senses. Richard has clearly pored all his magical passion
into this menu and it’s a gastronomical sensation.
Take a look at this delicious gallery for some examples of his amazing food.
The wine
Jaap will pair your choices to delicious wine and the entire
experience is so enjoyable you can’t help but grin like an idiot all the way
home (true story).
Price range
Starters R65-R75, mains R95-R155, desserts R50-R75, tasting menu – 8 courses R400, optional wine pairing Sommeliers’ selection R400, South African premium selection R800.
Perfect for
An amazing foodie experience. If you’re going to be in the area, go here, you won’t be dissappointed.