Franschhoek restaurant lands on 2025's hot list of best restaurants

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JAN Franschhoek claims a spot on prestigious list

Chef Jan Hendrik van Der Westhuizen’s JAN Franschhoek has been named one of the best new restaurants in the world on Condé Nast Traveller‘s 2025 Hot List.

According to the publication, the ‘Hot List’, is a carefully curated annual collection of the best new (and reborn) hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships in the world.

From Paris to Miami, the list names the newest as well as the best culinary offerings from around the globe.

“In a dimly lit cottage on a wine estate in Franschhoek, shrouded by lavender, a very lavish meal commences. Conceptualised by South African chef Jan Hendrik van Der Westhuizen, the spread at Jan Franschhoek is modelled on a sumptuous South African family table feast. The experience (which started as a pop-up) begins in the grand manor house of La Motte wine estate, where chilled glasses of MCC and bites like biltong lamingtons are served. Then an old VW van shuttles diners across the road to a cosy 1900s house where diners gather around a long sharing table next to a roaring fireplace.” Mary Holland shares for Condé Nast Traveller.

To begin, bread is served with butter that’s been expertly carved to look like Mozart, followed by a few small plates. Finally, the main meal commences. During my visit, an abundance of platters were topped with lamb that fell off the bone, giant pies with crispy tops, and warming green beans. The experience is finished off with a visit to the kitchen, where hunks of local cheese have been laid out alongside preserves. These are best eaten with a cup of moerkoffie, a very, very strong coffee that will hit you like a punch in the face.” Holland also adds.