The Beach House: Yzerfontein’s New Coastal Culinary Destination
Celebrated chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin have opened the doors to their latest venture, The Beach House, on 24 October 2024. This exciting new restaurant in Yzerfontein promises an authentic West Coast dining experience. Nestled on the breathtaking 16-Mile Beach – the longest uninterrupted beach stretch in the southern hemisphere – The Beach House brings a blend of rustic charm and refined elegance to South Africa’s West Coast.
Following the success of their innovative Stellenbosch restaurant, DUSK, Badenhorst and Austin have returned to their roots, channelling their passion for the West Coast’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage into this new venture. The Beach House is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to the rugged landscape, local traditions and the sea’s bounty that defines the area.
The West Coast restaurant is set within a beautifully reimagined 80-year-old beach house, redesigned by local design enthusiast, Hayley Breytenbach. Inspired by the timeless style of Ralph Lauren’s coastal designs, Breytenbach has created a warm, inviting space that feels like a seamless extension of the surrounding landscape. Custom details such as deep ‘Beach House Navy’ paint, handcrafted naval balustrades and locally sourced antique maritime décor complete the coastal ambiance. Even the original Oregon Pine floors have been thoughtfully repurposed, grounding the space in its heritage.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a mussel-adorned gabion wall and a Klompie brick pathway, leading to an entrance that echoes the natural beauty of the West Coast. The Beach House offers a dining experience designed to feel deeply connected to the environment, with a menu inspired by the flavours and ingredients of the coastline.
The Culinary Experience at The Beach House
Executive Chef Jacques Grove – whose culinary journey includes positions at Chefs Warehouse and Michelin-starred establishments in London – leads the kitchen with a focus on unique West Coast ingredients. Guests can expect approachable, yet refined dishes, crafted from freshly harvested mussels, foraged beach herbs and daily catches from local fishermen.
Signature dishes include Baai Slaai, a unique foraged salad with dune spinach, soutslaai and wood sorrel flowers, as well as Whole Baked Line-Caught Fish, cooked over a traditional wood-fired kaggel. Further to that, you can indulge in 1.2kg Prime Rib on the Bone – A la Steak Florentine with Café de Paris butter. Or, opt for the West Coast Classics: Fish and chips, Peri-Peri chicken and other perfected seaside favourites.
The Beach House’s drinks list emphasises wines from the West Coast wines, alongside some of the best wines from the wider Cape Winelands. Of course, there are also expertly crafted cocktails to complete the dining experience.
An Exceptional Experience in a Relaxed Setting
With Restaurant Manager and Sommelier, Hadge Maulana leading the Front of House team, The Beach House ensures an exceptional dining journey. Maulana’s experience and dedication add warmth and depth to the relaxed atmosphere, creating a place where both locals and travellers can savour the flavours of the West Coast.
A Must-Visit for Unique West Coast Cuisine
Located just an hour’s scenic drive from Cape Town along the R27, The Beach House in Yzerfontein is set to become a must-visit destination for unforgettable West Coast cuisine and ambiance.
Aligned with sustainable practices, The Beach House prioritises local sourcing, ensuring every dish reflects the surrounding community and environment. A pet-friendly patio also invites visitors to literally bring the whole family – dogs included – to enjoy the coastal charm.
The Beach House welcomes guests from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made via Dineplan or by emailing [email protected].
