Bouchon Bistro — Restaurant in City Centre

Upon arrival we had théé WORST reception we’ve ever had at a restaurant. Receptionist opened the door we greeted each other and proceeded to look for a table. When we got one he mumbled something (I could not for the life of me understand what he was saying -he had to repeat himself the entire time), when he clarified he asked us if we had a reservation to which we answered, were we supposed to reserve? Then he made a fuss about us just coming in and saying nothing, we were so confused coz he opened the door and we greeted?! Why didn’t he ask us then if we had a reservation?? He then mumbled that it’s fine he’ll give us a table anyway…the place was EMPTY by the way, only one occupied table.

We were disappointed by the reception but proceeded to order anyway. We started with some oysters which weren’t so bad. Not sure what was lacking but they weren’t the best oysters we’ve had. Then we got the pulled duck & artichoke risotto which was annoyingly delicious. Props to the kitchen with this meal we really enjoyed it. We also ordered the pork rillette with pickled cucumber & toasted sour dough, not sure what my mind was expecting here but I wasn’t expecting it to be a patté. Nonetheless it also tasted quite yummy. Most of their dishes were under R100 which makes it great for trying different meals…which we would’ve done had the atmosphere not been ruined. Overall, the food was quite good, our mood was ruined by reception but the waitress did...

VERY UNPROFESSIONAL ESTABLISHMENT Booked a table on Dineplan and still had to wait an hour to be seated. Insane. I left after 30 minutes. What's the point of a reservation.

Edit (to reply to the disappointing response from the restaurant)

This is the first time they have replied to any of our queries. The arrogance of the replier seems clear as they wish to respond on a public platform instead of directly. We were told by Angie ("Manager") to wait by the bar until our table becomes available. Her words were, "The table is just finishing up." There was no mention of the free table that was open next to the kitchen. We actually suggested moving that table to a more conducive spot after being asked to wait another 30 minutes. To reiterate, we already waited 30 minutes and were now expected to wait a total of an HOUR. If another table comes late for a reservation, why does it fall on me to wait for an hour before I can get seated. We respected our time slot. Customers who couldn't stick to their time should forfeit their reservation as it has an ongoing impact on the service for the night. Please post a link to the video in your response so that the public (as you wish to have it this way) can clearly witness the interaction. Writing my name out in full and my place of work in a review is unprofessional. I would have much preferred direct communication as most businesses handle their relations...

I'm speechless to be honest... What an INCREDIBLE experience!!!

I was lucky enough to celebrate my Birthday with 24 of my closest friends (and Family), at the exclusive Wine Cellar table in the Bouchon Wine Bar & Bistro Cellar. The venue is unique and everyone was blown away, not only by the incredible location but also by the variety of mouth-watering food, spectacular wine selection and impeccable service on offer! (NOTE: Make sure you book the cellar table in advance).

The service was beyond amazing. Every one of my guests commented on how incredible the evening was, how much fun they had and how unbelievable the team at Bouchon is! ...Don't take my word for it, call them today to book your own experience! You'll LOVE the relaxed vibe and friendly environment, not to mention the delicious wine! Yum.

The next time you want to enjoy an incredible meal in one of Cape Town's most beautiful restaurants, contact Bouchon and speak to Faisal. He will look after you and ensure that your cellar experience is nothing but PERFECT! I can't thank him enough for his kindness and professionalism. The entire team at Bouchon gets my five star vote! I'm still smiling :)

When all 24 of your guests respond the following day, with individual text messages explaining how the evening at Bouchon was the best they have ever experienced, you can only imagine how incredible the...