Tired of stressing about finding the best place to eat, scouring the internet and polling friends before you head out?
Well, lucky for you, Dineplan has decided to take on that headache and compile a list of its top-rated restaurants throughout the country for its Reviewers’ Choice Awards for 2024.
Compiled from an astounding 320,000 diner-generated reviews, these awards highlight the best-of-the-best of South African eateries, offering food enthusiasts a valuable guide to the nation’s best-loved restaurants.
Dineplan, a platform that has facilitated over 5.5 million reservations in the past year alone, resulting in more than 25 million seated diners across 1300 establishments, has harnessed the voice of patrons to define culinary excellence within the restaurant landscape.
The Reviewers' Choice Awards empower diners by spotlighting their preferred culinary experiences and setting a benchmark for quality.
This collaboration between discerning guests and passionate restaurateurs illustrates the essential bond that thrives in South Africa’s dining scene.
Taking centre stage this year is Good to Gather, a beloved Stellenbosch restaurant that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Owners Jess and Luke Grant expressed their delight upon receiving the prestigious award, stating: “We feel incredibly honoured to receive the 2024 Dineplan Reviewers' Choice Award.
“For us, it's not just about serving food; it’s about the heart and soul we pour into every aspect of our restaurant. We are so grateful to every diner who has visited us this past year, for every meal and story shared.”
They also acknowledged the vital contributions of their small farmers and suppliers and their dedicated team in achieving this accolade.
Closely trailing Good to Gather is Reverie Social Table in Cape Town, which also features prominently in the top rank of SA’s culinary scene.
The top five continue with Eatery at Winshaw Vineyards and The Table at De Meye, both of which thrive in Stellenbosch, alongside Schneider’s Cape Floral Kitchen in Stanford.
Expressing their gratitude, the team at Eatery at Winshaw Vineyards shared: “Being in the top 5 is an incredible honour that reflects our team’s hard work and passion for delivering an outstanding experience to every guest. A heartfelt thank you.”
This sentiment resonates throughout the awardee list, where exceptional service, value, and ambience carried equal weight to exquisite food, a philosophy that ensures even neighbourhood gems in Johannesburg receive acclaim alongside high-end dining establishments.
In addition to the established dining powerhouses, notable regional winners include The LivingRoom at Summerhill in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, and Insights at Sanctuary Mandela in Johannesburg, highlighting the diverse range of culinary ventures across the country.