The tasting menu at Pier eschews the traditional à la carte menu in favour of a curated culinary journey. Seafood is undeniably the star.
From the moment you step into the airy, whitewashed building, you’re greeted with floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the Victoria Basin.
The pared-back decor lets the spectacular seascape and meticulously presented dishes take centre stage. Each plate is a work of art, served on hand-crafted ceramics that could belong in an art gallery.
Pier brings the signature excellence of the La Colombe group into a vibrant seaside setting.
Under the expert guidance of Chef John Norris-Rogers, Pier was awarded two stars at the 2023 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, World Culinary Awards - Best in Africa and JHP Gourmet Guide - 3 Plates. Chef John was the 2022 Eat Out Chef of the Year.
The journey includes Octopus with salsa matcha, crayfish crackers paired with caviar, smoked snoek takoyaki, Za'atar tuna, Karoo lamb with sweetbread and tarragon, to name just a few of the stars on Chef John’s tasting menu.
Even the bread course is a revelation, featuring beer-crusted sourdough accompanied by curried hake butter, smoked mussel and chorizo pâté, and whipped butter with toasted yeast and sesame.
The wine list is impressively extensive, boasting everything from MCC to exclusive boutique reds and whites. There’s also an excellent selection of whisky, bourbon, brandy and Cognac.
The service at Pier is impeccable. The staff are not only attentive and friendly but also highly knowledgeable, ensuring that your dining experience is seamless and memorable, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
Pier’s new tasting menu is an exquisite blend of skill, innovation, and sheer culinary artistry. It’s an experience that celebrates the best of what the V&A Waterfront has to offer, making it a must-visit for any food lover.
The Chef’s Experience, priced at R1995 for dinner, is a splurge-worthy treat that justifies every rand. The lunchtime Chef’s Experience is priced at R1495.
IOL Lifestyle