La Terrasse Rooftop Café & Deli

Friday, August 25th, 2017

Reviewed by Riana Battison

An authentic Moroccan experience. It was nearly lunchtime and were close to Moroccan House when the call came to cancel our business appointment. After conferring (very briefly) with my colleague, we were unanimous and equally enthusiastic to go to nearby La Terrasse. My first impression was of authenticity – in architecture, the handcrafts that are sold in the shop, the décor and, most of all, the warm hospitality. Walking up the stairs to La Terrasse on the rooftop, I got a distinct feeling of “leaving problems behind” and “being on top the world” – enhanced by the stunning view of Pretoria East. We decided not to indulge in any wine and were treated to a traditional pouring of mint tea and a Moroccan Magic Juice – beautifully executed and decorated. My second impression was of staff well-trained! The talented and affable chef/manager of La Terrasse, Richard, recommended the mukabalatt (snack platter) as a starter, but cautioned not to order extra items if we were going to order a main course. Just as well. My lunch companion indulged in the Moroccan kefta balls in a tangy chermoula (tomato, onion, garlic and lemon sauce) while I relished the vegetarian choice – hummus, falafel, babaganoush (aubergines, garlic and lemon). I couldn’t resist an extra portion of the briouats de fromage (phyllo pockets with herbed cream cheese). This all was beautifully presented on a silver tray with crudités, fresh fruits, edible flowers and mini pita breads. After due consideration, I decided on the vegetarian option, Butternut Tagine (with sweet potato, lentils and Moroccan spices) and my business associate on the Chicken Bastilla - a Moroccan fusion chicken pie with layers of phyllo pastry, orange blossom water and roasted almonds with a rich chicken and egg filling, topped with mushroom relish. It was served with a side salad. Well… wow! Due to the portions being more than generous, we decided to share a dessert. The Coconut Cake (drenched with mint syrup and a caramelised almond topping, served with yoghurt) had delicious overtures of baklava with a Moroccan twist. La Terrasse bowled us over. Seldom have I come across a more imaginative restaurant where every bit of detail was refreshing and deeply satisfying. Congratulations and thanks to a committed and capable team! If you are looking for something different and decidedly delicious, try this Moroccan rooftop café and deli. We are certainly fans for life!