Fast facts

Name of restaurant: Hemelhuijs.

Address: 71 Waterkant street, Cape Town

Food type: Bistro fare

Average price of a main course: R160

Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm; Saturdays 9am – 3pm

Corkage fee: R50

Parking: Paid street parking.

Best for… Indulgent brunches, coffee or lazy lunches.

Food

From the delicious and comforting all-day breakfasts and generous salads to the rustic-inspired yet modern mains, the entire Hemelhuijs menu is a celebration of seasonal eating.

The dumpling starter is a perfect balance of umami, starring delicate dumplings and fresh French and daikon radishes. The deep, rich dashi and truffle broth is the star of this dish, ensuring every last drop will be slurped up.

You could also opt for the salmon, which comes with crunchy salted macadamia nuts and a kumquat dressing. Though an odd combination, it works incredibly well, the fresh chilli perfectly elevating the entire dish.

For mains you might choose the veal, which comes delicately pan-seared and served in a deeply savoury lemony parsley sauce, accompanied by mild artichokes, grated parmesan and fresh rocket.

Though on the breakfast menu, their signature crêpes Suzette make for a decadent dessert. Thin pancakes are flambéed in a decadent sticky orange caramel, accompanied by slices of preserved and fresh orange segments. The crowning glory is the dollop of heavenly clotted cream that melts down to create an indulgent sauce.

Drinks

The brunch cocktail list is fizzy, citrusy and delicious. (Try the Blood Orange French, a next-level mimosa.)

While modest, the wine list includes more than enough variety for even the fussiest oenophile. Their “steaming bowls” are legendary – literal bowls of rich African coffee, sweet hot chocolate or fragrant chai. The Vietnamese condensed milk one is a firm favourite.

Service

Discreet yet efficient – you’ll never feel rushed or deserted. Wine suggestions are also spot on.

Ambience

From the racks of house-made preserves, china and candles to the iconic dried flower installation on the ceiling and the heady scent of bitter citrus and tobacco candles, everything in Hemelhuijs sets it apart from your everyday restaurant experience.

Here you can easily imagine that your best foodie friend is hosting you in their home. Situated in bustling De Waterkant Road, it manages to provide guests with a haven of all things delicious and beautiful.\