OUR STORY
Eleven marks Chef Ryan Shells’ third restaurant, following his two successful Asian restaurants, Ōku and Yama Asian Eatery, both also situated in the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Asia only represented a fraction of Chef Ryan’s extensive travels, and he has explored many more countries and experienced so many different cuisines. From all these travels, his food knowledge from around the world was something that needed to be showcased. With a wealth of culinary experience and a deep curiosity for global flavours, Chef Ryan set his sights on opening another restaurant. When the perfect space became available, he recognised the opportunity immediately. What began as a vision soon became reality, and in August 2023, Eleven opened its doors.
ABOUT
Our Food
Embark on a global flavour journey with our diverse menu that captures the essence of the world’s cuisines. Unrestricted by a single culinary tradition, each dish draws inspiration from different corners of the globe.
Guests can choose between our à la carte menu, designed for those who prefer to curate their own dining experience, or our tasting menu, a guided exploration of seasonal flavours. We focus on cooking with what’s in season, allowing the menu to change naturally throughout the year and keeping each visit fresh and interesting.
OUR PRODUCE
Sustainable Sourcing
Our culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in our unwavering commitment to sourcing ingredients sustainably. A substantial portion of our ingredients comes from the beautiful Franschhoek region. We also focus on what is available at the time. For example, if strawberries are available one month but not the next then we will adapt that dish to feature only what is fresh and available. We are very proud of our own herb and veggie garden that takes centre stage in numerous dishes.
OUR PEOPLE
Dining for a Difference
At Eleven, our mission extends far beyond food service; it actively contributes to the betterment of our community. We are firm believers that a restaurant can be a catalyst for positive change, and we are dedicated to turning this belief into action. Our commitment to workforce development is one of the ways we realise this vision. Eleven transcends the role of a mere dining establishment; it is a hub for personal and professional advancement. We take immense pride in providing training and employment prospects to members of our community, equipping them with essential skills and nurturing their growth on both a personal and professional level. When you choose to dine with us, you become an integral part of this transformative philosophy.
