the île de païn blog
a community of authentic artisans and enthusiasts
Our ethos from day one has supported radiance and happiness through high quality, life-affirming foods. We don’t call our dishes “health foods”, but if you delve into the detail – ethical sourcing of the finest ingredients, thorough preparation, balanced recipes that genuinely satisfy, a healthy dose of soul-nourishing indulgence, a beautiful ambience in which to […]
Shakshuka is a savoury, aromatic dish popular among many ethnic groups in the Middle East. This hearty egg dish is typically served in the cast iron pan it was cooked in. It makes a great one-pot breakfast, lunch or dinner, mopped up with a hunk of warm crusty bread from the île de païn bakery. […]
In facing new challenges, we are also offered the opportunity to adapt and develop, to be daring and creative. We have freedom of choice to leaven all aspects of life with integrity and quality. We start with the essentials; our daily bread, that which nourishes us.
What are the key qualities we seek in every wine on our list? Being a daytime venue, we look for wines that are interesting and flexible enough, with good flavour profiles to combine with Chef Liezie’s fresh and balanced cooking style. We go out of our way to source wines that are not usually found […]
Along with the rest of the nation, we watched the Springboks’ glorious World Cup rugby win last weekend. The café was buzzing, the game live on our big screen (courtesy of the Knysna Film Festival). The kitchen and bakery were deserted as the excitement grew, all attention glued to the screen (punctuated with the odd […]
Freezing bread If bread is not used within: The day of purchase for small breads such as baguettes, fougasse, rolls, sticks… Three days for medium breads (Bagatta, Companio…) or Seven days for wholegrain breads (100% Rye, Vollkorn…) We recommend freezing your bread after cutting it into slices or pieces that can be used within the […]
Discover & shop. Specialist
equipment for the home baker.
Mouthwatering visuals, insider tips
and our chef’s favourite recipes…
Learn how to make perfect baguettes
& ciabattas with Markus
recipes, news, events and ideas to-go
Make it at home | Rock-star baked oats
What could be more warming on these icy winter mornings than a hearty, homely bowl of oats? If you are able to join us for breakfast at île de païn, our seasonal menu offers a satisfying creamy oatmeal porridge with winter spiced nuts and seeds. If you are further afield or just choosing to stay […]