Our first night in Franschhoek, at our first restaurant, French Connection. The French is obvious, so is the connection. Straightforward French food, all fresh ingredients. We go in with no reservation, and the floor is full on a Monday night, but they accommodate us nonetheless, with service that is beyond polite.
Unfortunately for us (and by no fault of theirs), the only available table is in the bar corner, a room separate from the main floor which doubles as a place to hide families with noisy children.
The couples next to us share two toddlers who behave like toddlers. Their parents send us a bottle of La Motte Sauvignon Blanc, an earnest and eagerly-accepted apology. I'm not normally a white wine drinker, but this one changes my mind. It is crisp and on the sweeter side, and it has a seamless finish that makes it easy to drink.
We toast to our new friends and start with a Springbok Tataki in our step. (We are surrounded by children so I will be making some dad jokes...brace yourself...) The meat is red and juicy in the middle with a flame-kissed sear all around, a filling, fulfilling flavor that has serious game. Springing forward into the winter vegetable salad on the side; the roasted carrots are better than alright, and nothing beats a fresh beet.
A giant portion of Crispy Duck is all that it's quacked up to be. The skin is as crispy as promised, though it could use some seasoning or at least a little salt. The raspberry vinegar jus is quite the highlight, a sweet statement that goes perfectly with the poultry.
The Crisp Pork Belly is the most delightful dish. Melted fat drips down a liquid meat, meshing with a sensible bed of lentils. The gooey apples and carrots add a splash of color and a contrasting sweetness, bringing balance to this bounty.
The Espresso Panna Cotta is as expressive as it is bold. The texture is smooth with a little bounce, and the modest sugar doesn't mask the bitter coffee notes, which leave a lasting impression.
A toast to new friends, a toast to calling Franschhoek home for the next 4 nights. We're off to a strong start at French Connection - we already feel so connected to Franschhoek.
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