Field And Fork
I love eating out at fine dining restaurants, and Field and Fork nearly meets this description. The concept of using locally sourced ingredients, fresh from the surrounding farms really resonates with me. I had read about this restaurant which is situated in the heritage area of Swellendam and I knew exactly where we wanted to eat when we stayed there.
Our meal
The menu changes seasonally and is small with dishes to suit everyone. Freshly baked bread was brought to the table and we both tucked in while choosing our meals. I went with the smoked salmon and cream cheese roulade (R85) for my starter, and Dave had the kudu and Parmesan carpaccio (R85). Dave forgot to ask for the red onions to be left off the plate but as it was prepared to order they didn’t affect the taste. Dave’s main course was the fillet of Angus beef (R235) done rare and I had the pan-fried sea bass (R225). The creamed courgettes on my plate were amazing. However, overall the meal was average and not memorable enough for me to say wow.
Dessert
Without discussion, Dave and I went for the same dessert choice. When we were in Toulouse Dave had a café gourmand and the dark chocolate mousse tart served with Ethiopian espresso and 21 year aged brandy (R85) was as close to that was we have ever had here. The dessert was by far the best part of our meal.
Alcohol choices
The wine choices were not too bad but the rest of the alcohol list was really disappointing. Local beers and ciders were standard commercial ones. Given how many craft beers and ciders are produced close to Swellendam this was a let down.
Service and more
The service was good and I would easily go back next time we are in Swellendam. Reservations are essential as the restaurant is small and popular!
Edit:
The restaurant has closed.
I am leaving for Johannesburg tomorrow to celebrate my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. I will be back at work on the 24th of February and will reply to blog comments then.
Inspiration published on Lavender and Lime February 20:
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- 2017 – Ginger Beer Bread
- 2014 – Creamy Chicken Pasta
- 2013 – Eagle Encounter And Wine Tasting At Spier
- 2012 – Three Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake
Looks so yummy. I fancy the chocolate mousse dessert. Congratulations to your parents. May they be blessed with many more happy years together.
Thank you Sylvia xxx
The dessert does look good. I wonder why we don’t have much Cafe Gourmand here. I’ve only seen it in Europe (and now in South Africa here).
Before this we had also only seen it in Europe.
That dessert looks delicious.
Happy anniversary to your parents, Tandy!
Thank you for the wishes.