Mark Oosthuizen
Google
I recently had the opportunity to dine here and while there were some definite highlights, the overall experience fell short of expectations—especially given the price point.
To start with the positives, the sourdough bread was exceptional, setting a high bar from the outset. The 48-hour cooked pork was beautifully prepared and full of flavor, and the apple vinegar drink was both refreshing and well-balanced. Service was also a strong point; the staff was attentive and professional throughout the meal.
However, some elements of the menu left much to be desired. The starter salad was particularly disappointing—it lacked any discernible flavor, and the combination of ingredients didn’t offer a clear highlight. Neither the flavors nor the textures stood out, making it difficult to understand what the dish was meant to achieve. Similarly, the soup broth lacked depth and complexity, making for a rather uninspiring course. The pine needle dessert, unfortunately, missed the mark entirely—it had an overwhelming, almost artificial quality that reminded me more of a bath bomb than a dessert.
The catfish dish was a simple no from me.
Despite a five-course experience, the meal as a whole did not leave a lasting impression. The concept behind the menu was unclear, and it felt like an ambitious attempt that ultimately failed to deliver. The dining setup also played a role in the disappointment—uncomfortable seating made for a less-than-relaxing meal, and the table setting was surprisingly bare, which only added to the underwhelming atmosphere.
Finally, the pricing felt excessive for what was offered. Even at half the price, it would be difficult to see the value, especially considering that the majority of the ingredients were readily available local vegetables. The execution simply didn’t justify the cost, leaving me questioning what the restaurant was aiming to achieve.
Would I return? Probably not. However, for those who appreciate great service and well-executed individual elements like the bread and pork, it might still be worth a try.