
REVOLUTIONARY IMMERSIVE captivating UNIQUE
DINING EXPERIENCE
An intimate and immersive fine dining experience in the heart of Stellenbosch, conceptualised by Chefs Darren Badenhorst & Callan Austin.
Since opening in September 2022, our vision has been to create a space where culinary boundaries are pushed, and creativity thrives. With Callan at the helm, Dusk delivers a 13-course tasting menu that blends innovation, storytelling, and flavour. Complemented by a world-class wine list and thoughtfully curated beverage pairings, we invite our guests to embark on a memorable journey through modern gastronomy.
Seasonality and locality are at the heart of everything we do. Our menu is a carefully curated expression of bold flavors, innovative techniques, and thoughtful craftsmanship. With a focus on fermentation and preservation, we create layers of depth and complexity—from house-made misos and garums to delicate lacto-ferments, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses. Each element is designed to highlight the finest ingredients sourced from local producers, ensuring a dining experience that is both refined and memorable
More than just a restaurant, Dusk reflects Chef’s Callan and Darren’s values and vision—a space where creativity, collaboration, and mental well-being are celebrated. We are committed to fostering a positive work culture for our team and creating an atmosphere where guests can connect, share, and savor unforgettable moments. Through our dedication to sustainability, hospitality, and innovation, we aim to redefine modern fine dining while staying true to our roots and passion for exceptional food.

REVOLUTIONARY IMMERSIVE captivating UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE
Unveiled in September of 2022, DUSK is a culinary odyssey, meticulously crafted by the young visionary minds of South African restaurateurs Darren Badenhorst and Executive Chef Callan Austin. Placed witihin the pulsating heart of the historic university town of Stellenbosch, our clandestine thirty-seater enclave is discreetly concealed from casual gazes, creating an intimiate shadow world that beckons connoisseurs of fine cuisine and wines on an epic culinary odyssey.
“We were aiming for the ambience of an unpretentious New York City speakeasy; the type of space where diners understand that it’s about the holistic experience, the company and of course, the cuisine. It’s not about the views and the setting,” – Darren.
We present a thirteen-course explorative menu that is avant-garde, inventive and boundary-breaking. Our wine list is equally world class and curated, with various wine and beverage pairing options.
“Foraging together and supporting local community food gardens is deep within our DNA. Most mornings see us harvesting a basket-full of wild herbs, mushrooms, aromatics and decorative garnish from the farm I live on, whilst also fostering inspiring and meaningful relationships with small independent vegetable growers ,”- Callan.
THE EXPEDITION
DUSK navigates relatively uncharted territories in the realm of fine dining. Our approach propels DUSK beyond mere gastronomy; it is an immersive encounter that narrates a compelling story through every emotion-infused dish.
Witihin our kitchen, a culinary alchemy unfolds, incorporating innovative techniques including in-house fermentation and “whole process” cooking; embracing a steadfast zero-waste ethos. Our commitment to sustainability materialises in every meticulously produced element – including miso’s, garum’s, shoyu’s, lacto-ferments, cured meats and cheeses.
THE psychological BEYOND THE CUISINE
DUSK goes beyond the traditional dining experience by integrating the principles of restaurant psychology and mental well-being into its core philosophy. The restaurant is committed to fostering a positive work culture, ensuring that both the team and those connected to the business thrive in a supportive and enriching environment. This forward-thinking approach redefines industry standards, enhancing not just the guest experience but also the well-being of those who bring it to life.
With a vision to challenge conventional hospitality practices, DUSK is pioneering a shift toward a more ethical and sustainable working environment. By prioritizing well-being and progressive workplace values, the restaurant aims to reshape the industry, creating a healthier, more balanced future for all who are part of it.
At DUSK, the dining experience extends beyond exceptional cuisine—it is an immersive journey that nourishes both the senses and the soul.

BOOK YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE AT DUSK
MEET THE TEAM

ELROY
Meet Elroy, our restaurant manager as well as the man behind all of the admin at Dusk.
Elroy is friendly and engaging and can always be found with a smile on his face and a joke up his sleeve. We all know that the paperwork can get a bit overwhelming at times, but we’re thankful that Elroy has us covered!

CALLAN
Meet Our Executive Chef, Callan Austin - The Visionary Behind Our Menu.
Chef Callan draws inspiration from every corner of life, diving deep into creativity to craft his unique concepts. For him, food is more than just sustenance—it's an art form, a medium to express bold ideas and tell stories that range from the politically charged to the playfully nostalgic.

JAMES
Meet James | Head Sculler by day, master barista by night. Our relationship with James stretches much further back than just Dusk. In fact, Callan and Darren have been working with James for over a decade! As cool as a cucumber, James has recently been moving out of the scullery and into the front-of-house team and has aspirations to become a barman. We support you James and look forward to watching you grow.

GEORGE
We are thrilled to welcome George Young as DUSK’s new Head Sommelier. A WSET Level 3 and Cape Wine Academy graduate, George was recently named Best Young Sommelier of South Africa 2024 by the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA).
His deep knowledge, meticulous approach, and passion for storytelling through wine make him a perfect fit for DUSK. Beyond his expertise, George is dedicated to mentorship and elevating the wine experience for both guests and the team.
With him at the helm, our wine program is set for an exciting evolution—enhancing pairings, broadening selections, and deepening guest engagement. We can’t wait to share his vision with you. Stay tuned for more.

Jason
Meet Jason, our head waiter and wine assistant. Jason has been with us from conception and has been working his way up the Dusk ladder. He has shown a lot of interest in the wine side of the experience and we are watching him with a keen eve to see how far he can go.

Garin
Meet our Junior Sous Chef, Garin or better known as "G" around the kitchen.
Having worked closely together in a previous kitchen, Chef Callan quickly saw heaps of potential in Gaz and knew that one day he'd be a strong second in the kitchen. Hardworking, dependable, and always leading the way, Gaz is the go-to for all of Dusk's rising chefs.

HLEKANI
Meet Hlekani, one of our dedicated Chef de Parties at DUSK. Originally part of Nocturne, his passion for fine dining earned him a place in our kitchen, where he has embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and determination.
His growth, positive attitude, and commitment make him an invaluable part of our team. Hlekani’s journey is a testament to hard work and stepping beyond comfort zones—we’re excited to see him continue to shine at DUSK!

SEBASTIEN
Meet Sebastian, one of our dedicated waiters at DUSK. With a Data Science degree and a passion for hospitality, he brings intellect, precision, and warmth to our team.
Beyond delivering exceptional service, his sharp problem-solving skills and unique talents enrich the DUSK experience. Be sure to say hello—he might even share some of his programming wisdom with you!

CHANEL
Meet Chanel, a talented CTIA student and a rising star in DUSK’s pastry section. With creativity, passion, and a drive for innovation, she brings fresh ideas to every dessert she crafts.
Her dedication to learning and mastering both classic and modern techniques makes her an invaluable part of our team. We can’t wait to see her continue to grow and leave her mark on DUSK!

SIYA
Meet Siya, one of our dedicated waiters at DUSK. Since joining just before the festive season, he has quickly become an asset to our team with his passion for fine dining and exceptional service.
His warm personality and commitment to creating memorable experiences have earned glowing feedback from our guests. Be sure to say hello next time you visit—Siya’s charm and dedication will make your evening even more special!

OLWETHU

ONGI
Say hello to Ongi, one of our hardworking ICA students on the snack section at DUSK. Though she may be quiet, Ongi’s focus and determination speak volumes.
Her calm and composed approach ensures that every task is completed with precision and care. Ongi’s reliability and dedication make her a valuable part of the team, and her work consistently reflects her commitment to excellence.
We’re proud to have Ongi on board and can’t wait to see her continue to grow and thrive in her culinary journey!

FINN
Meet Finn, a talented ICA student working in DUSK’s pastry section. Though quiet, his sharp wit and humor bring warmth to the team, making every service a little brighter.
His passion for pastry, dedication to learning, and willingness to lend a hand make him an invaluable part of the kitchen. We’re excited to see Finn continue to grow—his contributions are as delightful as the desserts he helps create!

RENE
Meet René, our exceptional pastry student who has become a true leader at DUSK. Stepping up to guide her peers, she brings fresh ideas and innovation to the pastry section.
Recently, she mastered the art of bon bons, showcasing her dedication and talent. Her growth has been nothing short of inspiring, and while her time with us is nearing its end, we know she’s destined for greatness.
We’re incredibly grateful for René’s contributions and can’t wait to see her continue to shine in the culinary world!

SLADE
Meet Slade, our exceptionally skilled grill master at DUSK. With experience in some of Cape Town's finest establishments, Slade brings a wealth of expertise to our kitchen.
Renowned for his precision and passion, he ensures that each dish is grilled to perfection, enhancing your dining experience with his culinary artistry.
We're thrilled to have Slade as part of the DUSK family, where his dedication and skill continue to delight our guests.

AMOS
Meet Amos, a cherished member of our team who has recently transitioned from the scullery to the front-of-house. With his kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Amos has become an integral part of the DUSK experience. His journey exemplifies the growth and development we value in our team members. We are proud to have Amos contributing to our guests' memorable dining experiences.

ANNABELLE
Meet Annabelle, the warm and welcoming face of DUSK. Arguably the second-best thing to come out of Belgium—right after Belgian chocolate—her radiant personality and contagious laugh set the perfect tone for your dining experience.
With an innate ability to make every guest feel truly special, Annabelle’s attention to detail and vibrant energy ensure a seamless and memorable evening at DUSK. Whether sharing her passion for food or making the room feel like home, she’s an indispensable part of our team.
We’re lucky to have her, and we know you’ll love her just as much as we do. Be sure to say hello next time you visit!

DARREN
Meet Darren, co-founder of DUSK and a guiding force behind the restaurant. With years of experience in the industry, he provides structure, mentorship, and strategic direction, ensuring DUSK operates at the highest level. His leadership supports the team in delivering an exceptional dining experience, making him an invaluable part of DUSK’s success.
AWARDS

Gourmet Guide Award 2024 - Two Plates
For exceptional dining that demands a detour

Eat out awards 2023
Three Star Restaurant Award

Eat out awards 2022
Best new restaruant

Cape Tourism Award 2023
For a top 5 place in the Best Stellenbosch Restaurants
AT DUSK | WE DINE.
OPERATING HOURS:
Monday – Sunday
6 pm – 8 pm (Last seating)
PHONE:
+27 21 023 4100 (Landline)
+27 71 942 3724 (WhatsApp)
ADDRESS:
43 Plein Street, Stellenbosch, 7600
*Menu and beverage pairing subject to seasonality and chefs’ daily creative expression
Please be aware that our food may contain or come into contact with common allergens, such as dairy, eggs, wheat, tree nuts, soya beans, shellfish, peanuts, and any other allergens. Please inform us of any dietary requirements upon making your booking.
Due to limited establishment size and diverse menu, a deposit R 600 or R 1000 depending on your menu choice is required to secure your booking. For bookings to be confirmed, it is essential that the deposit be paid within 48 hours of making the reservation. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of the reservation.
A 100% REFUND WILL BE RETURNED for any cancellation or modification made by the guest no later than 48 hours prior to your booking. Please note that if guests are 30 min late for their reservation without notice we reserve the right to cancel their booking.
*In the event that a reservation is made for a specific number of guests and fewer than the reserved number attend, we reserve the right to retain the deposit for those who do not arrive.
*Our menu caters to various dietary preferences and restrictions. While we are unable to provide options for vegan, halal, celiac, sugar-free, and fat-free diets, we are pleased to accommodate vegetarian and pescetarian choices. Additionally, we offer alternatives for those with gluten intolerance and basic allergies, including shellfish, nuts, and eggs.
* Please note that children from age 12 and up are welcome to join us for dinner and are permitted to enjoy the tasting menus offered.
*For American Express and Amex card transactions, please note that a 4% surcharge will be applied to your total bill.
*Menu and pairing prices are subject to change at the restaurant’s discretion.