Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia

Monday, March 5th, 2018

Reviewed by Ingrid Heijden

I am a constant foodie and lover of all the Chef's Warehouses in Cape Town, with #Chef_Liam_Tomlin at the helm. My experience at CW BC has always been amazing and regretfully I remain disappointed by Saturday's meal. Chef Ivor, unfortunately, you missed the mark on the majority of the dishes, leaving us underwhelmed and cheated out of pocket (the incredible view of the vineyards and the pretty plating cannot compensate for the lack of flavors)...My critique as follows: The oyster garnish overpowered the taste of the actual shellfish. The Vietnamese rice paper roll had no business being on that plate - I can make a more authentic one - and a tastier one too. There was nothing exciting about it, or fresh about it - it lacked herbs and crunch and was just some cucumber and vermicelli wrapped up with a satay/peanut dipping sauce to inspire it - the kimchi stole the stage (and starred on another dish again later....?) The tempura mushrooms were soggy, and the addition of the fried rice paper did not compensate for that particular lack of tempura texture and lightness. I remember the sauce was delightful. The tuna and kale dish was good - and something I expected from you. The baba ganoush had subtle smokey flavours - yum! The ceviche bored me and was overpowered by the red peppers - I'd had loved a fresher lightness to it. The risotto was a dish of the day, but as with other CW's, tends to hit the palate at a colder temperature (not warmed up enough). I suggest you inform dinners to eat this dish first. The polenta substitute for the lamb dish was a brave attempt and had some success - it lacked a sauce I think (the lamb dish failed to amaze the carnivores at our table too) I was told the pork belly was good. The hake tacos were highly praised and very delicious - extra lime was needed and requested. As always the cassis creme dessert and coffee were stellar. Maison 1 Beau Constantia 0 Thali is booked for this weekend.