Posted on

FABER: Sustainably sourced, impeccably served

Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, FABER Restaurant offers a dining experience that exemplifies sustainable luxury. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, the atmosphere is one of tranquillity and understated elegance. This sense of calm extends effortlessly into the restaurant, where exceptional service completes the experience. From the moment we arrived, the team’s attention to detail was apparent—seamless seating, intuitive service, and the kind of attentiveness that makes each guest feel as though they are the only ones in the room.

FABER offers both à la carte selections and a thoughtfully curated six-course set menu, with an optional wine pairing for those wishing to further immerse themselves in the journey. We opted for the set menu to fully explore the range and creativity of the kitchen—and it exceeded every expectation.

Our meal began with a beautifully presented bread course: 18-hour fermented sourdough served with salted butter, chickpea purée, Calamata olives, and roasted bell peppers, garnished with edible flowers. The freshness of the bread and the creamy, nutty chickpea purée made for a well-rounded start. As someone who grew up with them, I was delighted by the surprise addition of pumpkin fritters, warm and fluffy with just the right dusting of cinnamon sugar—a nostalgic touch that instantly became one of the highlights of my evening.

The first course featured a celeriac “tagliatelle,” a beautifully inventive take on pasta, dressed in a herb and pine nut pesto. Accented with fried garlic, celeriac purée, pickled baby onions, and fine herbs, each bite delivered freshness and finesse—proof of FABER’s commitment to seasonal, locally sourced produce.

Yellowtail sashimi followed as our second course, and it quickly became a personal favourite. Accompanied by charred aubergine purée, tempura zucchini, fried calamari, and a soy and ginger ponzu, the dish was as visually striking as it was flavourful. The fish was delicate and fresh, while the ponzu added a subtle sweetness and tang. The crisp calamari and zucchini provided a welcome contrast in texture.

Our third course showcased rare-roasted Cradock springbok, expertly cooked and paired with organic beetroots and pickled blueberries. The balance of earthiness and acidity brought complexity to the dish, and credit is certainly due to Chef Dale Stevens for the thoughtful composition.

Next came the butter-roasted kingklip, served on a bed of green vegetables and finished with a coconut, lime, and green chilli velouté. The fish flaked apart with ease, and the velouté, kissed with just the right amount of heat, elevated the dish without overpowering the delicacy of the kingklip.

The fifth course featured aged, grass-fed Napier beef fillet, served with button mushrooms, baby onions, garlic purée and a rich peppercorn jus. The beef was cooked to a perfect medium-rare, tender and full of depth, and the vegetables brought a hearty balance to the dish.

Finally, dessert arrived: a Valrhona dirty chai chocolate mousse, beautifully plated and masterfully balanced. As someone with a sweet tooth, I had been looking forward to this course all evening, and it surpassed every expectation. The mousse was complemented by hazelnut streusel, banana cremeux, lemon basil gel, and lemon verbena sorbet. Each element held its own while contributing to a harmonious and memorable whole. The sorbet, with its bright floral notes, was a standout component that brought the dish full circle.

From start to finish, our experience at FABER was nothing short of exceptional. Every course was a celebration of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, thoughtfully prepared and plated with care. The seamless service, paired with the peaceful atmosphere and incredible attention to detail, made it feel like a true escape into the heart of the Cape Winelands. FABER doesn’t just serve food—it tells a story, one that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, this is a dining experience worth seeking out.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Carla Botha.

For more information, visit their website: faber@avondalewine.co.za

Posted on

2023 World Luxury Restaurant Awards Winners Announced

The World Luxury Awards celebrated its 17th year of awarding some of the top hotels, spas, restaurants and travel establishments on 28 October 2023. It was a night to remember. This luxurious affair was hosted by Grand Hyatt Athens in Greece and saw almost 300 establishments from around the world awarded for their dedication and commitment to the luxury hospitality and travel industries.

“We are very proud of all of our winners, and being able to celebrate with them on an occasion like this is very special. The ceremony was incredible. The interactive entertainment, The Greek Priestesses and The Famous Zorba, were highlights of the evening and were thoroughly enjoyed by all. We wish to congratulate all our winners, also to those who were not able to be with us. A special congratulations to our overall winners: the Global Hotel of the Year – Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the Global Spa of the Year – Spirit Hotel Thermal Spa, the Global Restaurant of the Year – Le Pavillon and the Global Travel Establishment of the Year – Australia Zoo.” says Jana Stoman, the Executive Manager for the World Luxury Awards.

A brilliant and tantalizing 6-course menu was prepared for all to enjoy throughout the night. We wish to recognize and give thanks to Alpha Wine Estate for providing the Greek wine pairing that complemented each course.

Prior to the Gala Ceremony, on Friday evening, the guests who opted in were treated to a spectacular walking tour of Athens by the Greek Gourmet Tours. After viewing multiple ancient and historical sites and a stunning walk around the Acropolis, the tour culminated in a sumptuous dinner at a delightful and modern, Greek tapas-style restaurant. One can truly say, dining in Greece can be an adventure on its own! Thank you to Anastasia and her team at Greek Gourmet Tours for providing this wonderful experience.

“Travelers today increasingly value experiences over possessions and are willing to invest in unique, authentic, and immersive travel experiences. It is with the unwavering commitment of dedicated staff that guests can enjoy this. We congratulate the 2023 winners, who have worked hard and tirelessly to be successful in a very competitive industry.” says Jana Stoman.

The after party on the Rooftop was blessed with a full moon, a blood moon in fact, rising overhead, and the Acropolis blazing in its glory in the distance. Many guests enjoyed socializing with new and old friends while the DJ enticed them onto the dance floor. It ended a momentous occasion, perfectly.

“The World Luxury Awards would like to recognize and thank France 24, our official partner sponsor for 12 years, for being with us tonight and remaining a part of our family in the hospitality industry.” says Brandon Lourens, Chief Executive Officer of the World Luxury Awards.