14 Apr 2025

COY: A Hidden Culinary Gem in Cape Town

Nestled within the vibrant V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa, COY is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends tranquillity with world-class dining. True to its name, this discreetly placed restaurant offers a serene escape from the bustling surroundings, setting the stage for an exceptional culinary journey. With breathtaking views of Table Mountain from our table, I knew this experience would be one to remember.

COY presents an exquisite seven-course menu designed to cater to diverse palates. Guests can opt for the food-only experience or elevate their meal with a thoughtfully curated wine pairing at an additional cost. Impressively, the restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring inclusivity for all diners. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with delightful drinks, setting a warm and inviting tone for the evening. The service was nothing short of impeccable—attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely hospitable, embodying the essence of African hospitality.

The first course introduced us to maize chips with tahini and roasted shiitake mushrooms. Affectionately dubbed ‘chip & dip’ by the staff, this dish playfully reimagined a familiar concept within a fine-dining context while paying homage to African culinary traditions. Another standout was the smoked Stanford and red lentil, beautifully adorned with blatjang, a South African chutney, and cashews—a masterful balance of sweet and savury flavours presented with impeccable artistry.

The second course featured Fermented Amadumbe Sourdough, accompanied by kefir butter, konfyt (a traditional South African preserve), and bokkom. The bread, fermented for three days, achieved a perfect golden crust while remaining light and airy inside. The bokkom added a delicate saltiness, creating a unique and unforgettable flavour profile.

As we moved into individually selected courses, the yellowtail sashimi with caramelized coconut shavings and a sugarcane, ginger, and lime dressing stood out as a delightful blend of sweetness and acidity, allowing the freshness of the fish to shine. Equally impressive was the kudu tartare, complemented by sour fig, pickled pear, ginger, and basil pesto—each element working harmoniously to enhance the richness of the dish.

The fifth course brought an indulgent pairing of dry-aged beef sirloin tartare with sweet potato crisps and mousse, alongside ox tongue spiced with Ras El Hanout, served on a bed of black rice and beef tallow. The tartare boasted deep umami flavors, beautifully contrasted by the sweetness of the potato. The ox tongue dish, however, stole the show. Glazed in a luscious pomegranate sauce and garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds, the meat was exquisitely tender, melting effortlessly with each bite—an absolute highlight of the evening.

For our main courses, we savored the lamb rump, perfectly complemented by pap, spinach, and butternut purée, served with a rich skopo jus and lamb neck potjie. The addition of the potjie elevated the dish to new heights, offering an explosion of deep, comforting flavors. The second main course featured fresh, braaied kingklip, served with a vibrant peri-peri sauce and mussels, accompanied by askoek. The askoek’s bold flavours paired wonderfully with the spice of the sauce, making for a truly memorable dish.

Following our mains, a beautifully presented palate cleanser titled “Tea with Ma” paid tribute to the role of women in our lives. With delicate strawberry and raspberry flavours and a traditional koeksister on the side, this course was both heartwarming and nostalgic.

Dessert provided the perfect conclusion to our meal. The burnt banana crème, topped with 65% dark chocolate, raspberry gelatin pearls, and ice cream, was incredibly smooth, with balanced yet indulgent flavours. The selection of local cheeses was another triumph, featuring three expertly chosen varieties, with the standout being the rich and bold blue cheese, perfectly paired with honeycomb, pear preserve, and paaper crackers.

COY is far more than just a restaurant—it is an immersive culinary experience that masterfully combines tradition, innovation, and artistry. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted, celebrating local ingredients with contemporary flair. The impeccable service and inviting atmosphere further elevate the dining experience, making it truly unforgettable. Yet, the heart and soul of COY lie in the culinary genius of Chef Ryan Cole, whose expertise and vision have created something truly extraordinary.

For those seeking a world-class gastronomic journey in Cape Town, COY is an absolute must-visit.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Carla Botha.

For more information, visit their website: coyrestaurant.com