June 2024

The Test Kitchen, a globally acclaimed restaurant by ChefLuke Dale Roberts, is a haven for gastronomic creativity and innovation.Located in Cape Town’s vibrant Woodstock district, this dining experience takes guests on a journey through flavours, textures, and visual artistry. Known for its intimate setting and experimental approach, The Test Kitchen has become a benchmark for South African haute cuisine.

Your evening begins in the Dark Room, where bold, intriguing canapés and small plates are paired with innovative cocktails to tease your palate. From there, transition to the Light Room, a sophisticated yet warm dining space where each course is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending local ingredients with global inspiration.

The Menu:

Amuse-Bouche:

• Crispy Beef Tongue with Smoked Apple Purée
A tender bite of crispy beef tongue balanced with the sweetness of smoked apple purée.

• Vegetarian Option: Charred Baby Corn with BlackGarlic and Chilli Oil
Smoky baby corn enhanced by rich black garlic and a spicy oil drizzle.

Starter:

• Seared Tuna with Charcoal Crust and Sesame Foam
A perfectly seared tuna loin coated in charcoal, paired with a light sesame foam.

• Vegetarian Option: Grilled Aubergine withHarissa and Cashew Cream
Smoky aubergine with a spicy harissa glaze, topped with creamy cashew dressing.

Main Course:

• Braised Short Rib with Miso Glaze and Bone Marrow Jus
A melt-in-your-mouth short rib infused with a rich miso glaze and served with a decadent jus.

• Vegetarian Option: Ravioli of Wild Mushrooms with Truffle Butter
Handcrafted pasta filled with earthy mushrooms, coated in velvety truffle butter.

Dessert:

• Caramelised Pineapple Tarte Tatin with Star Anise IceCream
A modern twist on the classic tarte Tatin, featuring sweet pineapple and spiced ice cream.

• Vegetarian Option: Dark Chocolate Crémeux withSalted Honeycomb
A rich and indulgent chocolate dessert paired with crunchy honeycomb.

Wine Pairings:

• The Test Kitchen’s sommelier curates a selection of South Africa’s finest vintages, each chosen to enhance the innovative flavours of every dish.

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The Venue:

The Test Kitchen’s dual-room experience offers a blend of intrigue and elegance, with the Dark Room’s intimate atmosphere giving way to the airy sophistication of the Light Room. Known for its meticulous attention to detail and extraordinary service, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining journey.