DUSK sets Going to the Dogs challenge!

A heartfelt collaboration is taking shape in the Cape Winelands, as DUSK Restaurant teams up with the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch (AWSS) and Clay Café Paarl to raise awareness and funds for abandoned and injured pets.

For DUSK executive chef and co-owner Callan, the initiative is deeply personal. Three years ago, he adopted his dog, Teddy, from AWSS during an intense chapter of his restaurant life. The experience sparked a lasting connection and a desire to give back. This summer, that intention materialises in the form of a pet-inspired dish featured on DUSK’s two seasonal tasting menus, served in hand-painted ceramic bowls made by Clay Café Paarl. 

Lifesaver for injured and abandoned dogs and cats  

More than an adoption centre, AWSS currently cares for over 112 dogs and 61 cats, while operating an on-site veterinary clinic that also supports low-income pet owners across the region. With a 23-member team and dedicated volunteers who walk and socialise the animals, monthly running costs exceed R750,000. 

Summer menu focus on Man's Best Friend

The idea gained momentum after he spotted Clay Café’s paint-your-own dog bowls, run by well-known South African culinary ambassador Tamsin Snyman and co-owner of Clay Café Paarl.  

Snyman runs a paint-and-donate programme where patrons can paint a dog bowl that is then fired and donated to a shelter. With the enthusiastic backing of AWSS, the collaboration came together - and each bowl used at DUSK now features the painted name of a dog the team met at the shelter, with a few also honouring staff pets.   

“I wanted to create something meaningful through food, using our platform to benefit an initiative that’s close to home for me,” Callan explains.

The resulting “A Man’s Best Friend" dish features on DUSK’s signature summer menus, with a Beeno-style biscuit, cold-smoked venison tartare and a smoked parmesan custard - because you always have to pay the “cheese tax,” bringing a humorous, nostalgic touch to the experience while maintaining DUSK’s signature standard of craftsmanship, adds Callan. 

Together, DUSK and Clay Café Paarl are using their platforms to spotlight AWSS and invite other restaurants to ask: "How can your business make a difference?"

Guests can find the AWSS donation link via DUSK’s bio, while those wanting a more hands-on contribution can visit Clay Café Paarl to paint a bowl themselves. 

What you need to know: 

• Summer Epicurean Menu priced at R2095 per person
• Summer Odyssey Menu priced at R1795 per person. 

Both these menus are also available with wine pairings. Looking for more spots to treat your furry friends? Check out our guide to best pet-friendly spots for a fun day in Cape Town.