Spek & Bone

Berthus Basson is one of our best, most authentically South African chefs, able to weave in aspects of nostalgia into contemporary trends, and combine fresh produce – much of it home grown – with cooking traditions that are typical, from cooking on fire to pickling and preserving. He also excels at nurturing talent; at Spek en Bone (named after the Basson’s pet pig and our puppy) this is Chef Michael Fuller, who brings a great Asian influence into this tapas-style eatery (the Korean chicken is a stand out; steamed Asian vegetables with chili peanut sprinkle more than the sum of its parts). The venue is unassuming, tucked behind Oom Samie se winkel; the value is unbelievable, even for South Africans.

Hidden in the center of town, Spek and Bone is a cozy restaurant with a lush courtyard whose tables and chairs are set under a canopy of vines. The menu focuses on what they call tapas, although they have an international flair rather than a strong Spanish influence. The set menu consists of seven dishes.

Here is our quick reference guide on where to eat around Stellenbosch: If you are a carnivore at heart and feel that nothing can beat a great piece of meat then look no further than Hussar Grill, De Vleispaleis, and The Fat Butcher (who can trust a skinny one, right?) If small plates, sharing, and tasting a wide range of dishes tickles your fancy, swing by The Wine Glass, De Warenmarkt, Jardine Food and Wine bar, and Spek & Bone. If you’re after some traditional dishes, De Volkskombuis should be on the list – the kitchen of the people, serving up a wide selection of menu items from pizza, to steak, fish, and salads; but what we love are the traditional dishes such as Meraai se Hoenderpie (chicken pie), oxtail and Malay curry. If you are looking for something a little fancy or elevated but still comfortable and accessible, you have to dine at Rykaarts, and Genki (to die for Japanese Tapas and definitely the best sushi in town).

Spek & Bone stands as a captivating culinary gem nestled in the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa, celebrated for its unique dining experience that marries exquisite flavors with inviting ambiance. Patrons often remark on the restaurant's enchanting outdoor seating, draped in fairy lights and surrounded by lush vines, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for savoring diverse flavors. The menu showcases a range of thoughtfully curated dishes, such as the highly praised silverfish seafood curry and flavorful tartiflette gnocchi, demonstrating a commitment to fresh ingredients and creative culinary techniques.

Operating hours: Monday to Saturday from 11h00 to 18h00 Website: www.simonwineemporium.co.za Spek en Bone 84 Dorp Street Spek & Bone is located at a historic site next to the original Stellenbosch market, behind Oom Samie se winkel. This small plates eatery and wine bar is a real hidden gem, tucked away just off Dorp Street. You are invited to join the Spek en Bone team under the oldest fruit-producing vine in Stellenbosch (how fitting!) and for a curated tapas menu with big, bold flavours, best shared with friends and paired with specially selected South African wines.

A hidden gem in the center of Stellenbosch, South Africa, Spek & Bone provides a romantic dining experience beneath a stunning pergola adorned with string lights. In addition to enjoying a distinctive cuisine of small plates and an outstanding wine selection, guests may choose from both indoor and outdoor sitting. Even the most discriminating palates will be pleased by the amazing menu that the culinary team at Spek & Bone has produced, full of intriguing and delectable cuisine combinations.

Situated in an off-street courtyard on Dorp Street, this wine bar and bistro has charm in abundance, so grab a seat under the gnarly branches of the oldest fruit-producing vine in Stellenbosch. You can quench your thirst from one of the most interesting lists of wine by the glass I’ve seen, and satisfy your taste buds from a tapas menu that bears owner Bertus Basson’s signature style. For a special occasion, a private conservatory that seats a maximum of eight people is available.

Bertus Basson’s latest venture, Spek & Bone, is one of Stellenbosch’s real hidden gems, tucked away just off Dorp Street. It’s great spot to visit no matter the season however, it is extremely popular during the warmer summer months as it boasts a lovely outdoor seating area, where trees and lush greenery surround the tables. The restaurant specialises in serving tapas-style food; the popular Steak Tartare is hand-chopped beef with, cornichons, salty capers and crispy potato.

Bertus Basson, South Africa’s Eat Out San Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year 2019, is nothing short of a local legend. Spek en Bone is just one of his many successful restaurants, however this one being a bit more quirky and playful than the others. Named after his pet pig (Spek - meaning bacon), and pet dog (Bone - meaning beans), this eatery is situated in the heart of Stellenbosch, nestled beneath the wrinkly arms of the region’s oldest fruit-producing vines.

Tucked just off Dorp Street behind a weathered gate, Spek & Bone is one of Stellenbosch’s most beloved hidden gems. Under the shade of one of the town’s oldest fruit-producing vines, the kitchen serves up a playful, Japanese-inspired tapas menu that’s perfect for sharing. The vibe is casual and cosy, with dishes that hit the sweet spot between clever and comforting – think pork belly with Asian slaw, or umami-laced lamb ribs that disappear in seconds.

Nestled just off Dorp Street, Spek en Bone is a vibrant wine bar brought to life by the culinary prowess of Bertus Basson and Chef Michael Fuller. The establishment draws its name from the beloved pet pig, Spek, and the dog, Bone, of Bertus and Mareli. With a charming courtyard at the back, guests can enjoy sunny lunches under the enchanting canopy of an ancient vine, which transforms into a magical sight at night with twinkling fairy lights.

84 Dorp StreetNestled next to the historic Stellenbosch market and behind the famous Oom Samie se Winkel, Spek & Bone is a true hidden gem. This intimate wine bar and eatery invites you to unwind under the oldest fruit-producing vine in Stellenbosch, offering a unique summer setting. Their curated tapas menu bursts with bold flavors, designed for sharing and perfectly paired with their selection of South African wines.

This is the chilled offspring of the renowned top local Chef Bertus Basson. It is located in a peaceful courtyard in the middle of the oldest part of Stellenbosch town. It is a simple concept – take a lovely hidden courtyard in the oldest part of Stellenbosch Town and create a chilled wine bar with delicious shared plate dishes…….that are created by Bertus Basson and his talented team of Chefs.

Bertus Basson and Michael Fuller’s lively wine bar just off Dorp Street is named after Bertus’s pet pig, Spek, and dog, Bone. The hidden courtyard is perfect for sunny lunches under an ancient vine, which is lit up with fairy lights at night. Chef Michael Fuller focusses on superb tapas with bold flavours, and excellent wines, in a relaxed but adventurous menu.

With a sweet back story (it was named after the Bassons’ pets in pig, Spek and boxer, Bone), this delightful restaurant is magically hidden away off Dorp Street. It offers honest food, complemented by a fine wine list to satisfy even the most discerning wine lover. You can dine inside the cosy interior or out in the courtyard.

If you find yourself looking for a casual spot for lunch or supper in Stellenbosch town, Spek and Bone is another of Bertus Basson’s restaurants and offers a small plate menu in a wine bar environment. Tucked away in a historic building next to Oom Samie se Winkle, it is very quaint and well worth a visit.

Spek & Bone is a quirky, laid-back eatery named after chef Bertus Basson’s pet pig and dog. Owned by the charismatic Bertus Basson, this spot is all about sharing plates, good vibes and a bit of mischief. The courtyard, shaded by a massive oak tree, is the perfect place to enjoy a meal on a sunny day.

Hidden behind the historic Oom Samie se Winkel is another Bertus Basson gem. It serves South African dishes with specially chosen local wines under some of Stellenbosch’s oldest fruit-bearing vines. And where did the strange name come from?

This hidden gem, named after the owners' cutest duo, pig and puppy, is a true culinary adventure. A feast fit for royalty, Image Credit: Bite Photography. This small plates eatery and wine bar is far from ordinary.