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 within the pulsating heart of the historic university town of Stellenbosch, our clandestine thirty-seater enclave is discreetly concealed from casual gazes, creating an intimate 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 by Sommelier Bafana Zondo, recipient of the Eat Out Woolworths Wine Service Award, 2023.
“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.
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 by Sommelier Bafana Zondo, recipient of the Eat Out Woolworths Wine Service Award, 2023.
“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. Chefs Darren and Callan propel 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
In a harmomious partnership, Darren and Callan step beyond the traditional culinary realm, by delving into the intricacies of restaurant psychology and mental well-being. Their commitment extends to cultivating a positive work culture and environment, not only for the dedicated DUSK team but everyone that is intertwined in the business. This pioneering approach sets a new standard, elevating the dining experience for both the patrons and the team.
A sociologist within our team plays not only a pivotal role of in-house counsellor to the people of DUSK but in the broader context, this strategic vision encompasses the utilisation of this invaluable research to craft an ambitious and groundbreaking programme. The initiative aims to not only change conventional practices in hospitality but also to catalyse a paradigm shift in the collective mindset. By doing so, we aspire to foster a more ethical working environment, ultimately revolutionizing the landscape of the culinary world.
Complementing this, they embrace the therapeutic essence of nature through the practice of forest therapy, creating a sanctuary that fosters personal balance and tranquility.
Darran and Callan have set the stage for a revolution – one that nourishes not only the senses but the soul too.
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.
Sisipho
Meet Sisipho, the bubbly personality that helps keep Dusk looking immaculate. Thank you for all your hard work and attention to detail!
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.
Bafana
Meet Bafana, our Head Sommelier!
We sometimes wonder if his parents got the name wrong because ever since he joined us, he's been topping the charts! Bafana has meticulously crafted a wine list that celebrates both local and international wines, catering to every palate. Our renowned pairing experience, Pandora's Box, serves as Bafana's canvas to showcase exceptional wines, taking you on a unique journey to the DUSK cellar.
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.
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:
Tuesday – Saturday
6 pm – 8 pm (Last seating)
PHONE:
+27 21 023 4100
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 R600 deposit 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.
