The Common Room

Small plates, big tastes

“It’s all about sharing,” says executive chef Margot Janse. She’s referring to The Common Room, the more casual restaurant at Le Quartier Francais. World-famous for flagship restaurant, The Tasting Room, Margot wanted a clear definition between the two offerings.

So, if you will, think of common room at school: a place to meet and share food.  “It’s a fun way of eating,” elaborates Margot. “We all love eating small plates, and sharing tastes. It’s an uncomplicated approach.”

We’re sitting in the back courtyard; a breeze carries the scent of blossoms from the abundant garden. Contemporary iron sculptures punctuate the prettiness; one, a mermaid-slash-diver arches above the fountain.

We’re sharing, of course: we spear brioche soldiers into baked Camembert, marvel at the texture of the crunchy fish pops, and fight over the organic lamb and bacon crumble. For dessert, we get stuck into sticky bun ice cream with sugared almonds. Not yet satisfied we split an apple and speculaas pie with jersey cream.

The menu is a delight. Next time, I think I’ll try the springbok bitterballen too.

By Malu Lambert

The Common Room
16 Huguenot Road | Franschhoek | + (0)21 876 8442
Opening times: Monday to Sunday from 7:30am till late.

Read how The Tasting Room was named 36 in the S.Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Subscribe to our newsletter, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.