It’s not often that a plate of steak and chips lingers in your mind long after the meal—but then again, not every plate comes from Mill St Bistro in Stellenbosch.
Michelin-starred chef Phil Carmichael’s latest addition to the menu, the “MSB L’Entrecôte Experience”, is more than just a nod to a French classic.
It’s a carefully considered tribute to excellent South African produce, traditional technique, and good, honest generosity—all at a surprisingly accessible R350 per person.
The experience starts with a crisp green salad lightly dressed with a fynbos and honey vinaigrette—a subtle introduction before the main event.
What follows is a flame-seared grass-fed rump of beef, cooked over woodfire for that unmistakable smokiness. It arrives sliced, tender, and perfectly seasoned, accompanied by a velvety mushroom café au lait sauce and a generous pile of bottomless shoestring fries.
Yes, bottomless. But what makes it even better is that the steak is served twice. Just when you think it’s over, the second round arrives—ensuring you truly get to savour the moment.
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Mill St Bistro’s approach is straightforward: solid technique, great ingredients, and no fuss. It’s the kind of place where the food speaks for itself, yet still manages to tell a story.
The MSB L’Entrecôte is Carmichael’s “love letter” to the iconic French dish, but also a quiet celebration of South African farmers and producers who do things properly.
If steak isn’t your thing, the rest of the menu offers plenty. There’s a 500g Limousin T-bone, a 400g sirloin on the bone, and a Côte de Bœuf designed for sharing—served with dauphinois potatoes, onion rings, and béarnaise.
For something heartier, try the Lamb Shoulder Navarin with root vegetables. It’s food that comforts without compromising on quality.
Set beneath the Mill Street Monument, the restaurant has built a reputation for flavour driven by fire, pickling, and fermentation. It recently won “Bistro of the Year” at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards—and it’s easy to see why.
Whether you’re local or just visiting Stellenbosch, this new menu is well worth the detour. Come hungry—and don’t say no to the second helping.
Lifestyle
