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Chasing the First Breath of Autumn: New Menus, a Touch of Lagoon Magic, and Every Reason to Visit Benguela Cove

26 February 2026

  • Autumn at Benguela Cove - Hermanus

Why wait for the equinox when the harvest is already calling? At Moody Lagoon Restaurant, we have decided to embrace the change of season ahead of schedule. We are thrilled to announce the early release of our 2026 Autumn À La Carte Menu, now being served at Benguela Cove Estate.

As the vineyards begin their golden transformation, Executive Chef Christo Hattingh has fast-tracked his culinary calendar to bring you the rich, earthy and soul-warming flavours that define the Cape’s transition into autumn.

A Head Start on the Season’s Best

Chef Christo’s “Seasonally Fresh, Personally Tailored” philosophy means we don’t follow the calendar, we follow the ingredients. By launching the menu early, we celebrate the unique overlap of late-summer brightness and early-autumn depth.

  • Ocean-Fresh Beginnings: Dive into Oysters paired with our Cap Classique, or enjoy the Tuna with horseradish purée and pineapple salsa - a perfect bridge between the seasons.
  • Hearty Autumn Mains: Get an early taste of our Smoked Lamb Loin Chops with an estate red wine and sherry jus, or indulge in the signature Pepper Crusted Fillet (Steak au Poivre), masterfully paired with our Estate Syrah.
  • Vegetarian Artistry:  Discover the Brown Mushroom with a panko crust and charred red pepper sauce, a dish designed to sing alongside the buttery notes of our Estate Chardonnay.
  • Indulgent Finales: Warm up with the Twisted Black Forest or the Passionfruit Mousse with popping candy, best enjoyed with a glass of Noble Late Harvest. 

 

Updated Weekend Brunch Menu:

We are also excited to announce that our weekend brunch menu has been refreshed, served every Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday. Enjoy updated takes on your favourite classics - perfect for a relaxed, scenic start to the day. 

Join Us for an Early Taste of Autumn

When: Available now, Monday – Sunday
Where: Moody Lagoon Restaurant, Benguela Cove Estate
Reservations: Recommended for the best lagoon views
Estate Trading Hours: Sun – Thurs: 09:00 – 18:00 | Fri – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00

From sophisticated Seafood Pasta to a casual Moody Lagoon Burger enjoyed waterside, the essence of autumn is already on the table. Experience the season before the rest of the world catches up.

Book your table today and celebrate the early arrival of Autumn.

Moody Lagoon at Benguela Cove

Moody Lagoon at Benguela Cove

Hermanus, Western Cape Braai, Breakfast, Burgers, Cape Malay, Cocktails, Coffee Shop, Contemporary, Continental, European, Fine Dining, French, Fusion, Grills, Light Meals, Organic, Picnics, Pizza, Seafood, South African, Tapas, Vegan, Vegetarian, Wine bar

Moody Lagoon at Benguela Cove is set in the heart of the Benguela Cove winery complex. The restaurant is a beautiful contemporary space adorned with artwork and chandeliers, offering expansive view...