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. Beginning this 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.
Kaiseki Remains at the Heart
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. The Kaiseki menu is available with a dedicated vegetarian selection of dishes.
“The Kaiseki menu remains the heart of the experience,” says Ōku’s Ryan Shell.
“The introduction of an à la carte option 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.”
Exploring the À La Carte Menu at Ōku Asian Eatery
Dishes include Zensai-style appetisers and several dumpling interpretations. Standouts include steamed bread served with aubergine chutney, soy kewpie and pak choi kimchi; nori cylinders with spring roll pastry, mushroom mousse and pickled mushrooms; and cold cucumber broth with soy, dashi, sesame, ginger and chilli.
Starters showcase Kroonstad beef tartare with tahini, kewpie, anchovy, kimchi and egg yolk, whilst the “Mongolian Mosaic” combines Franschhoek’s Three Streams Trout with nori, watermelon, ginger, soy and wasabi pearls.
Mains feature green east coast crayfish with mange tout, sugar snap peas, daikon, herb oil, yuzu and tom yum; and locally farmed Steynsburg pork belly, smoked and presented with pak choi, kimchi, bulgogi and irresistible crackling. Vegetarians can enjoy smoked miso aubergine with tofu, tamarind, sesame and peanuts.
Japanese Inspiration, South African Terroir
Ōku – Japanese for oak – reflects the sense of history, spirituality and quiet strength that underpins both the menu and refined décor. Ancient Japanese techniques are applied to local Cape Winelands produce, creating a unique and accessible experience.
Complementing the food is a considered drinks programme, including premium sake tastings. 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, Ōku Asian Eatery invites guests to engage on their own terms – whether for a special occasion, leisurely lunch, or spontaneous midweek visit.
Ōku and Yama are both situated at Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Rd, Franschhoek.
To book at Ōku, call 021 876 2494 or email .
