On the back of Table Mountain in the southern suburbs, fine dining options are scarcer than in the city center. Myoga, nestled in the corner of the Vineyard Hotel, is an exception. Just entering the hotel grounds feels like stepping through a vortex into an extensive country garden. The grounds at the foot of the mountain cover seven acres of prime real estate reminiscent of the famed Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens down the road. A very large tortoise chomping pink flowers greeted me as I entered the garden.

Run by lauded chef Mike Bassett, Myoga is renowned for its fusion cuisine. While “fusion” isn’t generally my favorite, Myoga gets it right. They have a contemporary western menu with Asian influences and a large wine and cocktail selection. I visited for a weekday lunch, which was a fantastic experience. The dining room was calm and quiet and would be good for a business lunch. The restaurant is decorated in a mix of modern and classical elements, and the open kitchen extends into the main dining room. Overall, the feeling is formal but not too stiff.

On the waiter’s recommendation, I opted for the Asian caramel pork belly served with tomato eggplant jam and was very impressed. The pork was succulent and tender with a complex and delicious glaze. A dessert called “salted caramel chocolate pot” provided a mix of tastes including Brazilian nut macaroon, burnt white chocolate, and frozen olive oil ice cream in an interesting presentation. The salted caramel part was far and away my favorite.

The dinner offerings provide additional options including an attractive seven course tasting menu. If you’re staying at the hotel, a meal at Myoga is a no-brainer. However, I would recommend a lunch there for anyone, if not for the food, then for the excuse to explore the hotel and incredible garden.