TTK Fledgelings

We had such a great time at The Test Kitchen in celebrating our 7th Anniversary. From the start we were welcomed by the kind staff and given a celebratory Cap. The waitress was very helpful in identifying one glass of wine for both my husband and I that would pair with our overall meal selections since we weren’t going to do the add on wine pairing. All of the food was absolutely exceptional. The presentation and the plating matched the flavors that were on the plate. The fully fledged option is definitely one of those bucket list things to do. Thank you for a memorable anniversary experience !

An Unforgettable Birthday Experience at The Test Kitchen Fledgelings I recently had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday at The Test Kitchen Fledgelings, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the most gracious hostess, whose friendliness immediately made us feel at home. Our waiter continued the trend of outstanding hospitality, offering impeccable service with a warm and genuine smile. We began our evening with a delightful amuse-bouche — mini vetkoeks served with a flavorful fish pâté — a unique and delicious start to our culinary journey. It was evident that the chefs in the open kitchen take great pride in their craft; their joy and passion were clearly visible as they prepared each dish with care and creativity. We opted for the five-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and every course was a work of art — both in presentation and flavor. Each dish was beautifully balanced and thoughtfully curated, leaving us thoroughly satisfied (and still full the following day!). My personal highlight was the Tortellini, a dish that truly stood out for its exquisite taste and texture — though, truthfully, every course was a masterpiece. As a lovely final touch, the team surprised me with a personalized birthday board to mark the occasion. It was a heartwarming gesture that made the evening even more special. I wholeheartedly recommend The Test Kitchen Fledgelings to anyone looking for an elevated dining experience. The ambiance, service, and culinary artistry combine to create a truly memorable occasion. I am absolutely in love with this place and cannot wait to return.

How often do you get a chance to eat great food while contributing to a great cause? We happen to sit near the open kitchen and were so impressed with the manager's positive energy as she kept encouraging the chefs and the wait staff. Will come back the next time we're in Cape Town! 😁

This was the most exceptional meal and dining experience during our South Africa trip. The staff was personable and attentive, the food was thoughtful and elegant - a blissful combination of flavors, and it was so fun watching the kitchen (down to every time a new guest arrived). We would love to revisit this restaurant again in the future!

With winter in full swing, I figured what better activity than eating delicious food to distract myself from the icy weather? Surely a full belly would make me better equipped for the cold? Maybe, maybe not. Best believe I was going to test this theory. Since I was in the mood for testing, The Test Kitchen felt fitting. Like always, I did some research and was delighted to see their special prix fixe menu. It was meant to be! With joy, I made the booking. Fast forward to Thursday afternoon, time to eat. Of course, it was the coldest day of the year. Leaving my heater was a struggle, but I dressed as if going skiing and picked up my business partner. Tumi looked over and said, “you look, um, cosy?” I replied, “yes, it is FREEZING.” We arrived and were greeted by the most welcoming hostess, full of joy. The music was blasting my favourite throwbacks and everyone looked genuinely happy. The energy here is impeccable. Even before sitting down, the warmth of the people made up for the breeze outside. We were shown to our table and browsed the menu, though I’d already dissected it online. We ordered sparkling water and looked around. The interior is stunning, industrial chic laced with elegance. Exposed brick and pipes contrast beautifully with white tablecloths and leather chairs. My favourite part was the open kitchen, it felt like watching one of my cooking shows. Now, let’s get into the food. The prix fixe menu (R590 pp) includes five courses. Starting strong with my favourite food group (bread), we were served vetkoek with snoek pate. Crisp, golden balls of perfection, steaming hot with flakes of sea salt. I lathered on smooth pate, which melted into the bread. Crunchy on the outside, fluffy inside. The subtle sweetness paired perfectly with the savoury, umami pate. The sea salt enhanced everything. This course didn’t last long. Next, the oysters. Beautifully presented on ice, with precise brunoise cuts, big applause to the Chefs. The oysters were larger than most fine dining spots. Incredibly fresh and delicate, with tangy dressing and bursts of flavour from the pickled vegetables. This went down swimmingly. Then came the heirloom tart. The plate was a work of art, something you’d hang in your apartment. It tasted like summer. Visually and in flavour, layered with texture and freshness. The buttery pastry paired perfectly with juicy tomato and luscious burrata. Underneath, a marinated zucchini salad balanced the richness. Oddly enough, the star was the garnishes and drizzle. The tangy reduction, pomegranates, dried fruit, pine nuts, and rocket brought it all together. You must get a bit of everything in one bite. The flavours married so well. For the main, I chose oxtail. This dish was fun to eat. Thoughtfully layered, fresh pasta sheets, tender braised oxtail, earthy mushrooms, and lightly pickled vegetables. At first, I only ate the top layer, which was good but not mind blowing. Once I gathered everything onto my fork, the game changed. The umami richness of the mushrooms and meaty intensity of the oxtail were lifted by the pickled vegetables. The pasta was perfectly al dente, bringing saltiness and chew. Very comforting, it reminded me we were still in winter. Finally, the beef fillet, a spiritual experience. Everything was perfection, but the real star was their famous sauce. If you know, you know. If not, this is your sign. The steak was buttery and melted in your mouth. The silky celeriac puree was the perfect vessel to scoop up that godly sauce. The golden potato gratin was crisp yet soft inside, and the charred broccoli added freshness. That sauce, rich, glossy, umami, full of flavour. I’d drink it. This was the most delicious, indulgent afternoon. From the atmosphere to the flavour journey, everything was beautifully curated. I can confidently say I concur with my hypothesis, a full belly does make you better equipped for the cold. Thank you TTKF for a memorable afternoon. Till next time!

The Mrs and I ate here early July. I had the tasting menu with wine pairing, my wife had an app and entree with some Chardonnay. Easily one of the best meals of my life and I’ve eating at two Michelin starred restaurants. The service was outstanding. Attentive but not overbearing. Informed but not snooty. If I didn’t live on the other side of the planet I would eat here frequently.

Amazing experience and our best meal in Capetown and the year. Food and wine pairing was incredible with the tasting menu. Stan and our wait staff was incredible and extremely attentive. They did an entire gluten free tasting menu for one person in our party that had it's own curated menu. There is a choice between a la carte and chef menu. Will be back. Would recommend emphatically.

If I could give 10+ stars I would. We came here for our 10th anniversary dinner with friends and it was one of the very best dinning experiences ever. From amazing, fresh and creative food to the over the tops service and fun atmosphere, I can't say enough great things about this place. Everyone working there had such great vibes as well and you can tell they love what they do. Thanks for an amazing and special evening, we're so very grateful we found this place!