An ever-popular Helderberg eatery continues to fly its flag after successfully defending its title as one of the Cape’s best restaurants for a romantic evening among numerous contenders in the biggest awards show of the year.
Just in case you’ve missed it, Avontuur Estate restaurant was once again honoured as Best Date Night Restaurant in the 2022 Kfm Best of the Cape Awards. The acclaimed establishment’s second consecutive win as finalist in the competition, which showcases the best of what the Cape has to offer (“Best of the Cape Awards show Helderberg is the best,” DistrictMail, 9 September 2021). The winners across various categories were announced on air on Friday 12 August.
Following the announcement, Avontuur took to its Facebook page with the exciting news, sharing “We’ve won!” along with a “thank-you” to every individual who voted and secured the restaurant the win. The original post, which garnered more than 90 congratulations and best wishes for the achievement, was widely shared across social media platforms.
“It’s a great feeling,” said co-owner and head chef Zunia Boucher-Myers on enquiry.
“We celebrate 21 years of business success in November and are so happy our patrons still value what we do. Defending our title means we are still current and recognised as the destination where special occasions are celebrated.”
Boucher-Myers added that the valued recognition, which also serves as proof of their winning recipe for success (combining service excellence with longevity), is shared with a dedicated team that is committed to delivering exceptional hospitality and second-to-none quality.
“Their loyalty and dedication make our guests feel valued and special,” says Boucher-Myers. “We could not have won without their magic! And together we continue to strive for service excellence, attention to fine details and value for money.”
She holds that longevity is a sign of excellence, and all at Avontuur intend to keep their flag flying high.
The restaurant, ideally located on the R44 boasting spectacular views, clinched the title honour from category contenders that included the elegant Sea Point eatery Grand Pavilion, the hidden Cape Town gem Salsify at the Roundhouse, the uniquely contemporary Granary Café at The Silo Hotel and Italian culinary delight Vendetta’s Pizzeria.
Another Helderberg establishment honoured as the Cape’s Best Small Business was Dogs Day Out, which opened its doors as a specialised day care for furry friends at the Gants Centre during the pandemic.
The thriving Basin addition has been offering the ultimate home away from home where animal companions can unleash their happiness and socialise and play in a loving environment suited for enjoyment since June 2020 (“Daycare for furry friends now open,” DistrictMail, 2 July 2020). The Strand business kicked dust in the eyes of fellow finalists BalaKudu Online Bookstore, Blanco Bridal Couture, Groot Cecil Braailemme and Guyall’s Kitchen and Deli.
Owner Nannie de Villiers felt good about the acknowledgment, dubbing it “a thumbs-up and pat on the back. We are super-chuffed and excited. When we started two years ago, educating the community on what we do and why we can add value was a great part of the process. And we are happy that this has realised and what we do is appreciated.”
Among category finalists was another Helderberg name, The Grille Shack, which vied for the title as Cape’s Best Pet Friendly Eatery.
Congratulations are in order for Overberg neighbours, Elgin Railway Market and Houw Hoek Farm Stall, which walked away as winners in the Best Market and Best Farm Stall categories respectively.
