Cape to Cuba (Kalk Bay)

Sunday, June 8th, 2014

Reviewed by Cecil Walters

I was pleasantly surprised by this restaurant. People seem to have strong feelings about it either way, so I must say I approached with some trepidation. I found the venue to be colourful and bohemian, with somebody carefully walking a fine line between kitsch and clever in terms of the décor, but clearly having a fun time with it. I enjoyed the whole vibe and atmosphere, although the religious iconography I found a little strange, as if some saint was going tap you on the shoulder and admonish you for not eating all your greens. That sensation was quickly dispelled by the appearance of several colourful yet excellent cocktails.
The food was very enjoyable. Relatively simple fare, but nicely prepared and not overly stuffy in the presentation. I ordered honey and hoisin spare ribs and was presented with a impressive mound of sticky pork ribs which I thought I never would finish, but which were so delicious that I did. The ribs were flavoured with a hint of ginger and something exotic spice wise. They were moist, tender and delicious. My partner had calamari pan fried with smoked paprika which she also declared to be a winner. The ribs were called Bay of Pigs which I took to be a sardonic in joke referring to Castro chucking the Yankees into the sea at a battle of that name during cold war days. The place I not what you would call inexpensive, but for the location next to the sea and what you get it is good value. There is a bizarre dessert which comprises a chocolate ashtray, two faux wafer cigars and a cream liqueur in two chocolate shot glasses which the waiter seemed ambivalent about, which I took as a warning, so we settled for an orange cake made with almonds, served with cream which was delicious and warming. After dinner we retired to the bar full of the younger generation who seemed to be having a good time, Here a few Jack Black beers went down well prior to us adventuring on into Kalk Bay. One caveat: smoking seems to be permissible everywhere in the building and an some old folks were puffing way with abandon in the restaurant. The waiter was professional and efficient without getting too chatty which I always appreciate. The bill comes in a cigar box with endless graffiti scribbled by various guests over the years.
All in all a good time in an interesting venue with pretty good service.