Michelin Star chef is set to open his debut restaurant, in Stellenbosch. According to Phil Carmichael, Mill St Bistro will be opening on the corner of Mill Street and Church Street on 12 June.
Phil Carmichael, Michelin Star chef told SMF News that his decision to debut his first restaurant in Stellenbosch was easy because the area is known nationally and internationally for its food. PHOTO: Erinma Nedum
“I chose Stellenbosch because it is the heartland of gastronomy [in South Africa], there are so many great restaurants in the area and it is a good market because the locals enjoy food,” said Carmichael.
Restaurants are raking it in
Restaurants in and around Stellenbosch significantly boost the local economy, this is according to Elmarie Rabe, marketing manager of Visit Stellenbosch, a tourism information centre in Stellenbosch.
Tourists, locals, and visitors spend heavily on dining, making a significant financial contribution to the town. The restaurant industry provides substantial employment and supports many jobs, said Rabe.
“By sourcing produce locally, it also boosts the primary agricultural sector,” Rabe told SMF News.
“We plan to serve food that is cooked sympathetically,” said Carmichael. “The food will be grounded in French techniques but using mostly local ingredients that have been sourced ethically. I want to know where our beef and eggs come from, and I want to know the farmers that produce them.”
“Here [in Stellenbosch] we have access to phenomenal produce. I want to take advantage of that,” Phil Carmichael, Michelin Star chef told SMF News. PHOTO: Erinma Nedum
Carmichael’s contribution to Stellenbosch
When opening a restaurant, it is important to keep locals in mind according to Carmichael. Neighbourhood restaurants are very important he added.
“I have opened about 20 restaurants in the last 10 to 15 years for chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Jason Atherton and I have learnt the importance of neighbourhood restaurants, they are the hub of a community,” said Carmichael.
Stellenbosch has some of the finest restaurants in the country and Carmichael’s decision to open his restaurant in Stellenbosch is a testament to the town’s vibrant food culture and its appeal to new businesses. This is according to Stuart Grobbelaar, head of communications for Stellenbosch Municipality.
“Having Phil Carmichael opening a restaurant in Stellenbosch strengthens Stellenbosch’s reputation […] His restaurant will attract food enthusiasts and tourism, bring [in] more people and [stimulate] the circular economy[…] His restaurant will undoubtedly add prestige and international appeal to our restaurant scene,” said Rabe.