Lourensford Market — Local services in Western Cape

To the organisers of the Lourensford Market.

Few things in life piss me off more than having my time wasted.

We were having a very pleasant time on a wine farm in Caledon earlier today when my wife mentioned the Deon Groot performance at the Lourensford Market. Knowing the farm and the market, we realized we’d have to go early to get seats for the show. We arrived before 15:30, only to find the entire front section completely empty but covered with Reserved signs.

We had to awkwardly ask around—never a great way to start an event—just to find somewhere to sit. After much effort, we finally found space at the very back. We courteously waited for the concert to start, which, naturally, was 30 minutes later than advertised…

Then the sound began. Or rather, didn’t. It was absolutely pathetic. You couldn’t understand a single word when Deon Groot spoke, and the sound during the songs was even worse. As the concert went on, the sound quality somehow managed to deteriorate further. I walked closer several times to see if there might be a better spot, only to notice that many of those “reserved” tables at the front weren’t even fully occupied. Tables that could easily seat six or more people had only two or three people sitting there. My wife even approached a few groups to ask if we could join them, only to be rudely fobbed off with excuses like “we’re waiting for friends” (who, of course, never arrived).

Adding insult to injury, the sound didn’t even carry past the second steel pillar. During the first break, I approached the sound engineer, who was polite and clearly aware of the issue. He explained that the lady in charge—conveniently sitting at a large, reserved table right behind the first pillar—kept telling him to turn the sound down to accommodate the vendors. She eventually came over, and when he mentioned the complaints from the back, she dismissed me with a snarky “the vendors are complaining.” I told her I’d already spent over R1,000 with her vendors and wasn’t impressed that she is accommodating vendors over patrons. She clearly couldn’t care less. And why would she? Her reserved table, right at the front, behind the small sound desk had no sound issues.

Let me add that the six small mid-range speakers and two tiny bass drivers (lower than the crowd) were entirely inadequate for the venue. I’ve worked in the entertainment industry and know how to set up sound properly. For a market with a permanent stage installation, you’d think they’d have figured this out by now- clearly not!

We didn’t stay for the rest of the performance. Frankly, I think it’s embarrassing for performers like Deon Groot, who is a very talented entertainer, to play on such a poorly managed stage. This setup is akin to a busker singing for spare change in a shopping mall food court.

Finally, the organizers’ decision to commandeer one of the prime front tables for themselves and their friends is appalling. Those tables were meant for market attendees, not for management’s personal use. The excuse about vendors complaining about the sound doesn’t hold water either. I regret spending a cent at this market since Deon Groot was the only reason we stayed as long as we did. Rest assured, those vendors won’t see another cent from me.

Your approach to managing entertainment, sound, and seating is utterly pathetic. Until you overhaul your entire operation, I sincerely hope performers of Deon Groot’s calibre avoid your events entirely.

I truly think this was a pathetic and regrettable way for me to waste my precious few last days of holiday time and honestly regret visiting your pathetic event!

I am lastly of the opinion that the Lourensofrd Estate should seriously consider different people to take over the market, since it is clearly cantered around the organisers and vendors, and not their estate’s...

One of our favourite places in the world to visit! Nestled within the serene expanse of a charming wine farm, the upmarket market is an absolute gem that has captured my heart. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was enveloped in an ambiance of refinement and sophistication. The combination of quality food, carefully curated stalls, and an array of exquisite wines creates an unforgettable experience that is a true delight for all the senses.

The market's culinary offerings are a culinary journey in themselves, with each stall showcasing a dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients and crafting dishes that are both innovative and comforting. From artisanal cheeses to freshly baked pastries, the variety caters to every palate, making it an epicurean haven. And speaking of wine, the estate's own labels stand as a testament to the mastery of winemaking, offering a diverse selection that effortlessly marries tradition with innovation.

The live music that graces the air lends a lively and enchanting energy to the atmosphere. Whether you're savoring a glass of velvety red or exploring the market's array of handcrafted goods, the musical backdrop adds an element of joy that elevates the experience.

What truly sets this market apart, however, is its ability to cater to all members of the family. The child-friendly environment ensures that parents can relish their time while little ones engage in various activities tailored just for them. The sprawling location, with its panoramic views of the vineyards and surrounding landscape, adds an air of exclusivity to the experience. It's as if time slows down in this oasis of luxury, allowing visitors to escape the bustle of daily life.

In summation, this upmarket market on a wine farm is a masterpiece in every sense. It seamlessly blends gourmet cuisine, world-class wines, captivating music, and family-friendly attractions against a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty. It's a destination that promises not just a day out, but a memory to be cherished and revisited...

Horrible food preparation & misleading dishes.

Visited 8th of Feb 2025 Food at the market is slowly but surely going down the drain. I was absolutely shocked to have experienced the lowest form of disregard for hygiene when it comes to food preparation. It seems that gloves are used to protect their hands from getting dirty and total disrespect when handling ingredients whilst preparing a dish. The same hand cover in a glove takes the dirty dishcloth to wipe the prep table clean and then use that same dirty glove hand to pit garnish on the burger or grab chips to place in the box - both the venders that sell burgers etc (one owner) at the back has the same routine - shocking… but thats not all… 🫣

The person working at the counter dropped my order ( he made an honest mistake) and offered to make me a new order after i have been waiting over 30 min for it.

He said they will call me after which i went to sit down. My wife noticed that they were havesting the garnishes and chips from the box that fell on the ground and started to make me a new order. I immediately went back and said i want a freshly prepared order. They were not happy and said their boss will take it off their pay 🤨

I obviously said call him i will send him to the moon with compliments.

I stayed watching the lady preparing my dish after i made her put on clean gloves and use clean utensils. The dish i received was nothing close to the display dish they lure you with to buy. That is misleading and stealing in my opinion and far more expensive than a proper burger from Wagyu

Unless i experience a change in operation with regards to the food stalls i will not hesitate to involve health inspectors.

This will also be escalated to Lourensford Wine...