FRENCH CONNECTION BISTRO

06/08/2026

Hello Franschhoek!

For years, French Connection Bistro has been one of our favourite places. We have sat by the fire on chilly evenings, worked our way through countless steaks and bowls of mussels, and enjoyed long, lazy summer afternoons watching happy people pass by. We have always looked forward to returning.

On Saturday 1st August, our family took custody of the bistro from Matthew Gordon. Over more than two decades, Matthew has built something rare, and we know we have big shoes to fill. It may not happen overnight, but we have every intention of not only honouring what has been built, but taking it even further.
Our intention is to continue to contribute meaningfully to Franschhoek through conscious and authentic hospitality.

As we head into this new chapter, we want to assure you that nothing you love about this place is going anywhere. It's the same menu, the same kitchen, the same exceptional team. The same familiar faces who know your name and your usual table are all still here.

We are Nic and Louise. You will see us, and our children Matt, Amy and Lauren, around the restaurant. We love good food, Cape wine, and this community.

Come and visit, and let us take care of you just as you always have been.

Sincerely,
Nic and Louise Poole, and your family at French Connection Bistro

18/07/2026

18/07/2026

At last!! Our famous mussels are back in stock and available this weekend. Enjoy them as a starter or as a main course with French fries 🇫🇷 Call us on 021 876 4056 or book on the Dineplan app - before they sell out!

11/07/2026

Let the Bastille celebrations begin! 🇫🇷 🥂 🇫🇷 We're open throughout the weekend and have loads of delicious French-inspired specials on offer. Book on Dineplan or call us on 021 876 4056 to book a table. ☎️

29/06/2026

It's Winter special time! 🔥 Join us for these unbelievable specials available between Sunday dinners and Friday lunches. Unbelievable prices with wine from Protea Wines and beer from Hey Joe Brewing Company. 🍷 🍻

24/06/2026

We will be closed for dinner tonight the 24th June and for the whole day tomorrow Thursday 25th June for our annual staff party. We reopen at 12:00 on Friday 26th for lunch. See you then.

20/06/2026

Why not spoil dad this Father’s Day with lunch at French Connection Bistro 🍷 All dads receive a complimentary glass of Protea Cabernet Sauvignon to enjoy with their lunch. Book now on the Dineplan app or give us a call on 021 876 4056. Protea Wines

15/06/2026

After 25 wonderful years, it is time for a new chapter.

Twenty-five years ago, French Connection almost never happened. When I decided I wanted to buy the property, I was told it had already been sold. I immediately called the new owner, Trevor Kirsten, hoping to convince him to sell it to me. Instead, he invited me to meet him and, by the end of that conversation, offered something far more valuable — a partnership.
That moment changed my life.

Sadly, Trevor passed away in 2010, but I will never forget the faith he showed in me and the lessons he taught me about business, partnership and life.

Over the years, countless people have helped turn a dream into reality. To our incredible staff, past and present, thank you for your loyalty, dedication and friendship. To our loyal customers, many of whom have been with us from the very beginning, thank you for your support, encouragement and patronage.

To my wonderful wife and my parents, thank you for everything you have contributed to this journey.

After 42 years in the hospitality industry, it is time for us to slow down a little.

I am delighted to announce that French Connection has been sold to Nic and Louise Poole and their family. They are passionate hospitality professionals, long-time customers and, most importantly, wonderful people. We could not be happier to hand over the reins to them.

French Connection will remain French Connection. The staff, atmosphere and character of the restaurant will remain completely unchanged. I ask that you continue to support Nic, Louise and their team as generously as you have supported me over the years.

Thank you for believing in a dream and helping turn it into something far beyond anything I could have imagined.

Thank you.

Matt

16/05/2026

16/05/2026

A warm welcome to all the book lovers visiting for the Franschhoek Literary Festival. We will be open from 12 to close with the full menu available all day. Come and try the new winter menu! Book on Dineplan or give us a call on 021 876 4056. 🍷📚🍷