Mill St Bistro Stellenbosch launches its new outdoor Wine Deck

This summer, Mill St Bistro unveils its new Wine Deck, a vibrant celebration of South African wine-making at its most interesting. Situated on the corner of Mill and Church streets, the Wine Deck invites guests to savour the essence of the region in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Atmosphere

For Welsh-born head chef Phil Carmichael, his love affair with South Africa is all about connection through food, drink and atmosphere. “The best moments happen when people come together over great food and drinks, sharing stories and creating memories.”

His philosophy is woven into every detail: from the wine selection and the carefully crafted dishes and cocktails to the relaxed environment and welcoming attitude to last-minute walk-ins.

Wines

At the heart of the wine list sits sharp focus on South Africa’s unsung wine heroes: featuring small, family-run vineyards, biodynamic and organic wines, and minimal-interventionist types that highlight the innovation and passion of our local winemakers. “We wanted to push boundaries and seek out the crazies, the mavericks doing weird and wonderful things that deliver extraordinary results,” says Carmichael.

Mill St Bistro’s state-of-the-art Coravin system ensures guests can enjoy premium wines by the glass.

Plates

To accompany the wine list, Mill St Bistro offers a menu of delectable small seasonal plates, specifically crafted to complement the drinks on offer. Highlights include Jalapeño and Klein River Gruberg Croquettes, Wood-fired Dalewood Camembert with Homemade Pear and Saffron Chutney, and the Farmer Angus Charcuterie Platter with Mill St Pickles and Wood-Fired Flatbread – a must-try.

Each dish reflects Carmichael’s dedication to flavour and the thoughtful attention to detail that defines the Mill St Bistro experience.

Cocktails

Not to be outdone by the wines, the cocktail menu should not be overlooked, with its rounded focus on Mill St Bistro’s signature home-ferments. Highlights include The Stellenbosch Sour – a Mill St signature favourite that blends homemade coffee kombucha with Woodford Reserve whiskey – or The Bourbonator, featuring homemade vanilla rooibos syrup and caramelised apple tincture for a distinctly South African twist.

No reservations

For Carmichael, the Wine Deck represents more than the sum of its parts. “Sometimes, it’s the simplest experiences that are the most memorable. This is a place where people can come as they are, enjoy a perfectly crafted moment and soak up the atmosphere.”

Whether you pop in for a glass of South Africa’s finest wines, an enriching cocktail or a world-class light-bite, the Wine Deck invites you to discover, relax and connect.

Mill St Bistro is situated in the Cluver Markotter Building at the corner of Mill and Church Street, Stellenbosch Central. For online bookings, email bookings@millstbistro.co.za.

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