The celebrated Ōku Asian Eatery in Franschhoek has evolved its dining experience to become even more accessible, introducing an à la carte menu alongside its signature Kaiseki menu, now available for both lunch and dinner. From 1 February, guests can engage with Ōku more often and in more ways, without any shift in the restaurant’s core identity.
Since opening in 2020 alongside sister restaurant Yama Sushi Emporium, Ōku has established itself as a contemporary Japanese-inspired destination, rooted firmly in South African produce. Its philosophy remains unchanged: technique and flavour are Japanese; ingredients are local. What has changed is the ease with which diners can step into the world of Ōku.
“The Kaiseki menu remains the heart of the experience,” says Ōku’s Ryan Shell. The menu is an absolute showcase of the kitchen’s abilities and is available also with a dedicated vegetarian selection of dishes.
“The introduction of an à la carte option now, is not a departure, but an invitation – an opening of the door for guests who may want a shorter visit, a lighter meal, or the freedom to return more frequently.”
The new à la carte menu sits comfortably alongside the tasting menu, allowing guests to explore Ōku’s refined, seasonal cooking at their own pace. Whether selecting a few standout dishes or building a more informal meal, diners can now tailor their experience while still engaging with the restaurant’s precise technique and layered flavours.
Dishes on the menu include selections offering Zensai, typical Asian-style appetizers; and, several dumpling interpretations. Tuck into steamed bread served with aubergine chutney, soy kewpie and pak choi kimchi; or try the nori cylinders that comprise nori, spring roll pastry, mushroom mousse and pickled mushrooms. The cold cucumber broth is perfect for a warm summer’s day and is created with cucumber, soy, dashi, sesame, ginger and chilli.
Starters on offer are just as exquisite. There’s the Kroonstad beef tartare, which employs sirloin beef, tahini, kewpie, anchovy, kimchi, egg yolk. The “Mongolian Mosaic” combines the delights of Franschhoek’s own Three Streams Trout, served with nori, watermelon, ginger, soy and wasabi pearls.
For the main attractions, there’s green east coast crayfish, served with mange tout, sugar snap peas, daikon, green puree, herb oil, yuzu and tom yum; as well as the locally farmed Steynsburg pork belly that’s smoked and presented with pak choi, Asian dressing, kimchi, bulgogi and irresistible crackling. For vegetarians, the selections include a main dish of smoked miso aubergine with tofu, tamarind, sesame and peanuts.
Ōku is one of three restaurants within the group, which also includes the Franschhoek-rooted Eleven and Yama Sushi Emporium. Its name, Ōku – Japanese for oak – reflects the sense of history, spirituality and quiet strength that underpins both the menu and the refined décor. Like the oak, these values speak to longevity, depth and a respect for craft.
The core principles echo in the menu curation where ancient Japanese techniques are applied in the preparation of local produce, creating a unique and accessible experience for guests. It also highlights the outstanding sources of quality ingredients available in the Cape winelands.
Complementing the food offering is a considered drinks programme, including tastings of premium sake. For those seeking the most immersive expression of the restaurant’s philosophy, the Kaiseki wine pairing menu remains the pinnacle of the Ōku experience, showcasing thoughtful harmony between dish and drink.
With the Kaiseki menu now available for both lunch and dinner, and the introduction of an à la carte option from 1 February, Ōku invites guests to engage on their own terms – whether for a special occasion, a leisurely lunch, or a spontaneous midweek visit.
This evolution lowers the barrier to entry, while keeping the soul of Ōku intact: contemporary Japanese inspiration, grounded in South African terroir, delivered with clarity, respect and restraint.
To book at Ōku, call 021 876 2494 or email reservations@eat-oku.co.za. For more information, visit https://eat-oku.co.za/