Fodor's Expert Review Tokara

At the top of the Helshoogte Pass with absolutely amazing views of the valley and mountains, Tokara is a Winelands must-do. Chef Richard Carstens is known for innovation and playful twists. His adventurous menu changes seasonally but could include such starters as broccoli with a Gruyère custard, marinated mushrooms, and pine nuts with a teriyaki brown butter or roasted cob with crisp calamari, prawns, and squid-ink brioche served with a garlic-and-lemon cream. For mains there are some unusual combinations that work brilliantly. Try the panfried springbok with cauliflower puree, brandy prunes, and sauce miroir (a deglazed, reduced gravy made with pan juices). End with the chef's famous Gorgonzola ice cream served with red-wine beets, walnut, mint, and honeycomb. Children are welcomed with their own version of fish-and-chips or steak and fries. In season you need to book at least a week in advance; ask for a window table.