Stylish Revamp: The Test Kitchen

WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS Jan Ras, Supplied VIDEO Eat Out Mag on YouTube.com

Renowned Luke Dale-Roberts restaurant The Test Kitchen in Cape Town’s Woodstock underwent a major revamp during the month of August 2016.

Situated in The Old Biscuit Mill, The Test Kitchen is known for its cuisine and industrial chic setting.

The vision for the updated space, conceptualised by Luke and Sandalene Dale-Roberts, was executed by Maurice Paliaga.

Seating has been reduced from 65 to 40 diners by splitting the area in two with a charred wood floor-to-ceiling wall. On one side is a moody lounge that serves as a reception area, with seating for the fine dining restaurant is situated on the other side.

The space where diners receive their first seven courses is known as The Dark Room, with soft furnishings by Sandalene and a feature burnt wood wall with three figures cut into it by artist Hannelie Coetzee. A metal kinetic sculpture by Egon Tania and Peter Forbes also adds a sense of drama to the space.

Guests then proceed to The Light Room, a refined and sophisticated space, where the remainder of the 21-course menu is enjoyed.

The Light Room is exactly that, light. Keeping the original exposed brickwork and industrial ducts, the area is lined with white linen table settings and dove grey and pale blue upholstery. A glass-fronted wine cellar on the mezzanine also adds a striking detail to the space.

Take a peek inside the space in this short clip.

The new tasting menu consists of 21 courses and includes cocktails, a glass of MCC, coffee and an after-dinner brandy (R1 600).

The Test Kitchen has been nominated for a 2016 Eat Out Boschendal Style Award. It is open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday for a 6:30pm seating and an 8:30pm seating. For reservations, visit thetestkitchen.co.za.