Garden Route foodies, mark the calendar and polish those wine glasses — The Turbine Hotel & Spa is rolling out the red carpet for an unforgettable Thelema Food & Wine Pairing Evening on 11 December 2025, and it’s shaping up to be one of Knysna’s most delicious nights of the year.
Hosted at the charming Island Café on Thesen Island, this elegant evening kicks off at 18:30, welcoming guests with fine wine, beautifully plated dishes, and that unmistakable Turbine touch — a blend of industrial chic, warm hospitality, and scenic waterfront ambience.
And for just R695 per person, this culinary journey is not only luxurious… it’s surprisingly accessible for locals who appreciate good food, excellent wine, and a night out that feels like a mini-holiday.
🍾 The Menu: Four Courses of Pure Delight
The Turbine team has teamed up with Thelema, one of Stellenbosch’s most respected wineries, to craft a menu that reads like poetry and tastes even better. Expect elegant pairings, bold flavours, and thoughtful touches that showcase both chefs’ creativity and Thelema’s iconic wines.
Here’s a peek at the decadence awaiting diners:
🥂 Welcome Drink
Sutherland Grenache Rosé
Paired with Goat’s Cheese, Cranberry & Pistachio Nut Terrine, served with toasted milk bread and spiced fig relish.
Start as you mean to go on: festive, rich, and wonderfully indulgent.
🍤 1st Course
Thelema Sauvignon Blanc
With Prawn Carpaccio, avocado, and sour cream.
Fresh, bright and summery — the perfect coastal nod for Knysna diners.
🥔 2nd Course
Thelema Chardonnay
Paired with a Confit Potato Thyme Galette, aioli and pickled beetroot.
A dish so comforting it deserves a hug.
🐦 Main Course
Thelema Cabernet
Served with Flame-Grilled Ostrich Fillet, roasted cauliflower purée, and pickled mushrooms.
Earthy, smoky, and beautifully balanced with one of SA’s favourite Cabernets.
🍑 Dessert
Thelema Vin de Hel
With Summer Stone Fruit, vanilla ice cream, Maldon salt, and EV olive oil.
The perfect sweet ending with a delicate gourmet twist.
👗 Dress Code & Details
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Cost: R695 per person
Bookings: Essential (this one will sell out)
📞 044 050 3500
📧 marketing@turbinehotel.co.za
The Turbine’s wine evenings have become a Garden Route favourite because they strike the perfect balance between fine dining and friendly warmth. No pretence, just incredible food, exceptional wine, and the kind of atmosphere that reminds you why Knysna is magic.
With festive season approaching, this is the kind of night worth savouring — slow, delicious, and filled with good company.
