Morgenster wine estate is situated in the foothills of the Helderberg mountain range and offers amazing wine, excellent olive oil, and typical Italian fare in their restaurant. Giulio Bertrand purchased the 300 year old farm in 1992 and brought with him his Italian heritage. When a flood affected the restaurant site on the farm a new venue had to be designed. It offers al fresco dining and has views that make you feel you are in the middle of nowhere. The menu on offer is seasonal and starts with antipasti and insalate. Followed by primi and secondi with a choice of contorni, and ending in dolci.
Our meal at Morgenster
We started with bread rolls and focaccia, accompanied by the estates extra virgin olive oils, and the most amazing balsamic vinegar. Dave and I shared the fritto di calamari (R125) to start. Served with garlic and chilli the deep-fried squid were divine. The other starter at the table was impepata di cozze (R160) and the mussels in white wine got a thumbs up. For mains, Dave, and I both decided that the gnocchi di ricotta al pesto (R95) was the perfect choice. And they were perfect and the portion was large for a primi course. Keely had the linguine ai gamberi (R180) and ended up taking some home with her as it was so generous. James had the porchetta (R230) and the pork belly was perfectly cooked. We shared a portion of zucchini fritti (R45) between us but personally I found the coating too thick, and not cooked enough.
Will we go back?
Without a doubt. This is our second meal there, and neither times have we been disappointed. The service levels are excellent and one is made to feel most welcome all of the time. However, if you are doing an olive oil tasting, I suggest you do that first. They are open Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner; and Sundays for lunch. Contact them on +27 21 852 1738 and bookings are advised.
See the links below for blog posts I published on March 28:
- 2023: Toasted Seeds
- 2022: Pistachio Remoulade
- 2021: Before She Disappeared
- 2018: The Lovat
- 2016: Filled Waffles
- 2014: 28 March 2014: Out And About
- 2013: Boozy Blackberry Sorbet
- 2012: Salmon Pasta
- 2011: @365, Pringle Bay
It’s beautiful that a meal was such a wonderful event, Tandy. Your descriptions and photos made it come to life for me. Thanks for bringing us along. Hugs.
Thank you for ‘joining’ me 🙂
Hi Tandy, this restaurant sounds terrific
I could go back anytime!