Secret EATS

SecretEATS creates intimate, exclusive culinary experiences that go beyond the ordinary, uncovering hidden venues for gourmet dining, underground cocktail tours and VIP wine tastings. Founded in 2013 in Cape Town, the team collaborates with local chefs, mixologists and city insiders to host private, curated evenings that blend exceptional flavour with rich storytelling. Each gathering is designed as a journey, surprising and delighting guests while revealing a deeper connection to local culture.

Its secret dining experiences range from chef’s tables to discreet dinners in historic homes, all set in memorable spaces that set the tone for an elegant, narrative driven meal. In South Africa, events have taken place in seaside villas in Llandudno, art galleries in Constantia and private wine cellars beneath Table Mountain. Celebrated local chefs, including Matt Manning, Brad Ball and Bertus Basson, have showcased South Africa’s culinary heritage at past events, ensuring food lovers encounter distinctive cooking and thoughtful pairings in truly unique settings.

For cocktail enthusiasts, SecretEATS hosts experiences inside hidden bars and private lounges, where handcrafted drinks are served alongside the experts who create them. These underground cocktail tours emphasise technique, flavour and the stories behind each sip, guided by charismatic hosts who know the city’s tucked away venues. Guests meet the mixologists, hear the inspiration behind bespoke serves and explore spaces they might never discover on their own.

Private wine tastings are curated to spotlight premium wines and rare varietals, connecting terroir, heritage and craft through engaging, insider led narratives. Tastings often unfold in atmospheric, off the beaten path locations, with hosts weaving in the origins of each bottle and the personalities behind the labels. Whether delving into cellar discoveries or hearing the story behind a centuries old wine estate, the emphasis is on access, authenticity and a memorable sense of place.

SecretEATS also designs bespoke private events, tailoring each element from venue and menu to music and pacing. Every evening is led by a local host who serves as storyteller and guide, shaping the flow from welcome drink to final toast. The format is ideal for social soirées, romantic celebrations and milestone moments, and it has even played a part in memorable proposals. Travellers and locals alike are welcomed into an invite only world that feels both personal and finely curated.

In South Africa, SecretEATS operates in Cape Town and Johannesburg, with deep roots in the Western Cape’s food and wine culture. While part of a growing international network across multiple cities and continents, its South African experiences continue to reflect strong local partnerships, distinctive venues and a commitment to showcasing regional talent.

Across all events, the focus remains on authenticity, exclusivity and meaningful connection. Hidden spaces, limited guest lists and close collaboration with top local talent result in evenings that feel crafted just for those in attendance. Recognised by leading publications in travel, food and lifestyle, SecretEATS continues to champion community, sustainability and the joy of breaking bread together, creating unforgettable memories in food, wine and cocktails.

SecretEATS South Africa offers exclusive dining, wine, and cocktail experiences in hidden venues across the country. Founded in 2013, it aims to bring people together through culinary intrigue and unforgettable flavors.