The Test Kitchen

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Legacy of Excellence in the Heart of Woodstock

Tucked inside the vibrant Old Biscuit Mill on Albert Road, Woodstock, this celebrated Cape Town address has long been synonymous with culinary ambition. The restaurant earned its place on the world stage by ranking among The World's 50 Best Restaurants five consecutive times between 2014 and 2019 — reaching as high as 22nd in 2016 — cementing its status as one of Africa's most decorated dining destinations.

The journey continues under the banner of Salon, which has already claimed the title of Best New Restaurant at the World Culinary Awards 2024, signalling that the kitchen's appetite for innovation is as sharp as ever.

A Global Tasting Menu Unlike Any Other

Salon's kitchen speaks the language of the world. The tasting menu — priced at R1 950 per person — is a passport across continents, weaving together chapters inspired by South Africa, France, the United Kingdom, and the Mediterranean into a single, seamless narrative.

Dinner begins with playful Salon Snacks: Rhubarb & Smoked Trout, a Citrus Taco, and the nostalgic Slangetjie, before evolving into more composed acts. Highlights include a summery Garden Peas course with courgette, scallop and langoustine; a Roma Tomato plate with fig leaf, octopus and mussel evoking the Mediterranean; and the luxurious Duck Suzette — seven-day aged duck breast with citrus emulsion and duck jus, a nod to classical France. The journey closes on South African soil with Fynbos Honey, malt barley, pear and local mead.

Guests may enhance the experience with a Pioneer beverage pairing (+R995), the Iconic beverage pairing (+R1 590), or a non-alcoholic Infusion pairing (+R475). Vegetarian and pescatarian menus are also available on request.

An Atmosphere Built for Discovery

Set on the first floor of the Silo Building within the beloved Old Biscuit Mill, the dining room offers an intimate yet spirited setting for Tuesday-to-Saturday dinner service. The industrial-chic bones of Woodstock provide the perfect backdrop for a meal that constantly surprises — a fitting home for a restaurant that has never stopped pushing boundaries.