About Readers Restaurant
Carol Collins, Owner and Chef
From helping her Mom in the kitchen, to catering for the stars and meeting Princess Diana, Chef and Owner, Carol Collins love for cooking has taken her all over the world.
She finished her Home Economics studies at Stellenbosch University before completing a Cordon Bleu Course at Silwood Kitchen. Soon afterwards her international food journey began.
Global experience
Her culinary skills earned her a spot in catering at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England.
It was here that she assisted in catering for:
The Proms
Frank Sinatra
Liza Minelli
Eric Clapton
Phil Collins
to name but a few.
After England, Carol traveled to Cyprus, France and Boston, America. After working in so many diverse kitchens and experiencing a fusion of international flavours, it’s easy to see why she loves putting a personal twist on traditional favourites.
Personal highlights of her travels
Catering for the 40th Year Ballet Celebration where she met the Guest of Honour, the late Princess Diana.
“I was overwhelmed but it was an amazing experience to meet and chat to her.”
Carol was invited by the Royal Albert Head Chef to help cater for
~ The Henley Regatta ~
~ Wimbledon ~
~ The Ascot Royal Enclosure ~
“ I remember the ladies with big hats, designer outfits and high heeled shoes, at the end of the day most of them frazzled, with hats squashed under their arms, their shoes in hand and their gentile accents had lapsed into cockney – all thanks to the numerous glasses of bubbly on tap.”
All through her glamorous travels, a piece of her heart always belonged to South Africa and in 1997 she opened Readers Restaurant in Tulbagh.
A small town with a big heart and a rich history.
About the building
Built in 1754, it is the oldest building in Church Street. Historically, it was home to The Reader. Villagers used to bring their letters and documents to the home of Sieketroos so he could assist them in reading and writing. The stories he must’ve heard.
In honouring the history of the building Carol aptly named the restaurant, Readers.
Today, the building is home to more stories. Stories and laughter shared over delicious food and wine. What better way to stay rooted in history?
About the Curious Cats
Sitting outside on the stoep, you might be lucky enough to meet Gucci and Smudge, the resident cats.
Each with their own story to tell, Gucci is always ready to welcome patrons at the door. Smudge prefers lying in the office most of the day, preferably in a bag or on a book shelf.
About Church Street and Tulbagh
In 1969, a 6.5 magnitude earthquake shook Tulbagh. The houses in Church Street were restored and today they are all national monuments.
Readers Restaurant is situated a short stroll from The ‘Oude Kerk Volksmuseum’, home to photos, experiences and stories of the earthquake.
From its Cape – Dutch heritage to modern day comforts the Tulbagh Valley offers and caters for all travelers – the nature enthusiasts, the outdoor adventurers, wine lovers, families and friends celebrating life, seeking peace and tranquility.