In August we broke the news that chef Luke Dale-Roberts was to expand his empire with a new fine-dining eatery – under the helm of chef Ryan Cole – to open in the historic Roundhouse location. We got a sneak peek (and taste) of Salsify at The Roundhouse ahead of the doors opening on 16 October.

 

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The new restaurant occupies the upper level of the historical Roundhouse building. The interior has been designed by Sandalene Dale-Roberts, Luke’s wife and design partner, to honour and challenge the location’s historic past.

The lounge at Salsify. Photo by Nikita Buxton

Think avant-garde graffiti produced by international street artist Louis de Villiers and a focal point in the form of a 1.3m bronze figure by local sculptor Otto du Plessis juxtaposed by Persian rugs, leather, and antique furniture upholstered in jewel-coloured velvets. A graffiti-clad selfie room hidden in the lounge adds an extra bit of quirk to the space.

The sculpture by Otto du Plessis. Photo by Nikita Buxton

As for the food, Salsify is set out to offer fine-dining experience without the snobbery: “We want to really push boundaries of flavour and technique but we’re not trying to be The Test Kitchen, we will develop our own signature and style as we go,” says Ryan Cole.

Celeriac and parmesan catalan canapés at the launch of Salsify. Photo by Nikita Buxton

The successful launch was a preview of what’s to come on the a la carte menu with dishes like spring minestrone with octopus, oyster and tomato water; aged beef sirloin with onion gravy, porcini pudding and burnt turnip; caramelised pineapple, coconut cake, kefir ice; and strawberry scone with blueberry jam and champagne jelly.

Caramelised pineapple and coconut cake at Salsify.

Salsify will be open from Tuesdays to Sundays for lunch and dinner, and reservations can now be made one month in advance via Salsify’s website www.salsify.co.za.