Ōku Asian Eatery Expands with New À La Carte Menu in Franschhoek

Ōku Asian Eatery Opens the Door Even Wider

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 offering. Available for both lunch and dinner from 1 February 2026, the new menu format allows guests to engage with Ōku more often and in more ways—without any shift in the restaurant’s core identity.

A Philosophy Rooted in Craft and Terroir

Since opening in 2020 alongside sister restaurant Yama Sushi Emporium, Ōku has established itself as a contemporary Japanese-inspired destination firmly rooted in South African produce. Its philosophy remains unchanged: Japanese technique and flavour, local ingredients. What has evolved is the ease with which diners can step into the world of Ōku.

The Kaiseki menu continues to anchor the experience. An intricate showcase of the kitchen’s abilities, it is also available with a dedicated vegetarian selection. The introduction of an à la carte option is not a departure, but rather an invitation—an opportunity for guests seeking a shorter visit, lighter meal, or more frequent dining occasions.

A Flexible and Refined Dining Experience

The new à la carte menu sits comfortably alongside the tasting menu, allowing diners to explore Ōku’s refined, seasonal cooking at their own pace. Guests can select a few standout dishes or curate a more informal meal, all while engaging with the restaurant’s precise technique and layered flavours.

Highlights from the Menu

The à la carte offering features a diverse selection of dishes, including:

Zensai – Asian-style appetisers
Several creative dumpling interpretations
Steamed bread with aubergine chutney, soy kewpie and pak choi kimchi
Nori cylinders with spring roll pastry, mushroom mousse and pickled mushrooms
Cold cucumber broth with cucumber, soy, dashi, sesame, ginger and chilli

Starters

Kroonstad beef tartare with tahini, kewpie, anchovy, kimchi and egg yolk
“Mongolian Mosaic” featuring Franschhoek’s Three Streams trout with nori, watermelon, ginger, soy and wasabi pearls

Main Attractions

Green east coast crayfish with mange tout, sugar snap peas, daikon, green purée, herb oil, yuzu and tom yum
Locally farmed Steynsburg pork belly, smoked and served with pak choi, Asian dressing, kimchi, bulgogi and crackling
Smoked miso aubergine with tofu, tamarind, sesame and peanuts (vegetarian)

A Name That Reflects Strength and Longevity

Ōku—Japanese for oak—reflects a sense of history, spirituality and quiet strength that underpins both the menu and the refined décor. Like the oak tree, the restaurant’s values speak to longevity, depth and a respect for craft.

Ancient Japanese techniques are applied to exceptional Cape Winelands produce, creating a dining experience that is both distinctive and accessible. The restaurant also offers a considered drinks programme, including premium sake tastings. For those seeking the most immersive expression of Ōku’s philosophy, the Kaiseki wine pairing menu remains the pinnacle of the experience, delivering thoughtful harmony between dish and drink.

Dining on Your Own Terms

With the Kaiseki menu now available for both lunch and dinner, and the addition of an à la carte option, 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.

Location: Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
Bookings: 021 876 2494