Wine estate · Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

Leopard's Leap

Sunday, just after eleven, and the smell of roasting meat drifts from the kitchen over the long tables. Outside, children's bikes rattle over the pump track.

The restaurant opened in 2021 in a building designed by the architect Mokena Makeka. The concept is called the South African Table, and lunch comes off the rotisserie. Small groups can taste without booking, while groups of six or more arrange a private tasting in advance (as of September 2026). Payment is cashless only.

founded by Hein Koegelenberg
c. 2000
restaurant opened
2021
countries where the brand is sold
40+
Franschhoek Wine Tram stop
Pink line

By Franschhoek standards Leopard's Leap is young. Hein Koegelenberg founded the brand around 2000, and the estate says it is now sold in more than 40 countries. In keeping with its name, the estate supports the Cape Leopard Trust. English Wikipedia states that Koegelenberg also owns La Motte, whereas La Motte itself names Hanneli Rupert as its owner. The Franschhoek Wine Tram brings you here on the Pink line.

When
tastings Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm, closed Mondays; restaurant Wednesday to Sunday; as of September 2026

Our tipIf you want to eat here, avoid Monday and Tuesday: the restaurant opens only Wednesday to Sunday, and on Mondays the tasting room is closed too (as of September 2026).

Leopard's Leap: frequently asked questions

Is Leopard's Leap open on Mondays?

No, Leopard's Leap in Franschhoek is closed on Mondays. Its restaurant opens only from Wednesday to Sunday (as of September 2026).

Do you need to book a tasting at Leopard's Leap?

Small groups can taste at Leopard's Leap without booking. Groups of six or more need to arrange a private tasting in advance (as of September 2026).

What is on offer at the Leopard's Leap restaurant?

The Leopard's Leap restaurant follows a South African Table concept and serves rotisserie at lunchtime. It opened in 2021 in a building by the architect Mokena Makeka.