We are excited to introduce JAN Franschhoek, an exceptional, seasonal food and wine experience presented from a charming historic cottage, Veepos, right in the middle of the Franschhoek Valley’s most picturesque lavender fields. Based on the popular TV series, JAN RSVP, this culinary encounter shares a nostalgic story with food as told by South Africa’s first Michelin-starred chef, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen.
“As a family, we are always looking for interesting and creative ways to share our passion for wine and food with our guests. We’ve been fans of Jan Hendrik’s dinner table storytelling since enjoying his Michelin starred experience in Nice and we are honoured and excited to host him and his team in the Franschhoek Valley. We can’t wait to offer guests a delicious once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience at La Motte”, says CEO of La Motte, Hein Koegelenberg.
“I remember always seeing this little house in the middle of the Franschhoek Valley lavender fields at La Motte and wondering why it was not a super exclusive little eatery. Years later and JAN Franschhoek will be opening its doors to the culinary curious,” says Jan Hendrik who regards his latest culinary adventure as a tribute to his early years in the winelands, when he was honing his skills and discovering the beauty of the area. “My years in the winelands formed such a big part of my culinary and design training that I have always wanted to come back for more. I guess it’s like drinking a good wine. Once you’ve had a taste, you want to keep on savouring it.”
The estate’s historic Veepos building that plays host to JAN Franschhoek, is a zero-waste and zero percent single-use plastic establishment and offers a rare glimpse into life as it was in this valley in the early 19th century, with thick stone walls that meet the ceiling and original blue gum ceiling beams. Fully restored since 1992, the building is hidden amidst a sea of lavender when the fields burst into bloom during the spring and summer months.
JAN Franschhoek takes guests on a sensory journey comprising ingredients inspired by the mountain and the river. Traditional and modern techniques are combined in the creation of a series of dishes inspired by the JAN Library’s formidable collection of South African cookbooks; presented at an intimate communal table which brings Jan Hendrik’s love of community and his South African heritage to this fine dining experience.
More information:
JAN Franschhoek will be open for dinner bookings on select dates from 1 December 2022 until 31 May 2023.
The experience starts with a welcome in the La Motte Manor House (18:30) before dinner begins at 19:00.
JAN Franschhoek’s team will include a culinary collective led by JAN Group Executive Chef Antro Davel and Head Chef Anzette Klynhans operating under Jan Hendrik as Culinary Director.
The TV show JAN RSVP that served as inspiration for JAN Franschhoek airs weekly on VIA (DSTV channel 147) on Sunday nights at 20:30 and can be streamed on Showmax.
Visit JAN Franschhoek for more information and reservations.
E jan.franschhoek@la-motte.co.za
T +27 (0)21 876 9115
Cost: R2500 per person
