Zola Nene

Food
Breakfast is served all day and includes a vast range of Banting friendly options. The signature Benedict are among the most popular items on the menu, try the green eggs and ham variation which is named so because of the basil hollandaise that is served spooned over the eggs.
For lunch, my favourite is the "cheeky chicken burger" which is a marinated chicken breast, served on a pillowy homemade bun, topped with sweet, sticky caramelized onion, fresh avo and a drizzle of mustard mayo - if you're a fan of burgers, then this is a definitely must try. Another signature is the homemade chicken pie made using all butter puff pastry made on the premises. For those who prefer something lighter, there are numerous salads on the menu, each seasonal and offering interesting combinations.
To satisfy your sweet tooth, there is a selection of homemade cakes and pastries that include gluten free options. For something a little fun, try the milk and cookies, a soft and gooey dark chocolate biscuit served with some homemade vanilla milk in a cute little mini carafe.

Drinks
The drinks menu is pretty extensive; in fact, it is as large and varied as the food menu. Drinks offered range from coffees, to speciality teas, a selection of gourmet hot chocolates which are the perfect comfort on a chilly winter’s day. If you prefer something fruity and cold, try the homemade raspberry & thyme cordial made from fresh, pressed raspberries, it's served with fresh sprigs of thyme and topped with soda water, so refreshing, and not too sweet either. The wine menu includes a variety of local, affordable wines sold by the bottle and glass. Each lunch menu item includes a recommendation for a wine pairing which is a lovely added touch.

Ambiance
A truly delightful and inviting place that charms you into staying longer than you intended. The restaurant is decorated in a shabby-chic style with quirky mis-matched tables and chairs giving it a relaxed homely feel. In the corner at the entrance is a bright pink upholstered almost regal-looking lounge set. Above the front store windows hang lights made from metal colanders and whimsical handmade felt birds swaying in the breeze formed when the front door is opened. On the walls hang pieces of artwork by local designers, all for sale.

Service
The staff is some of the friendliest I have come across, a mix of both young energetic students as well as older more reserved servers - all equally excitable and eager to greet you and make your visit memorable. The restaurant fills up considerably during lunch time, so expect a bit of a wait for your meal, I waited no less than 40 minutes for my lunch order. (I would have given the service a 5, but marked down for the long wait). The restaurant also has a pantry of items for sale, ranging from homemade preserves, wines as well as gift cards.

Best for...
Pretty, delicious café fare.

(2018)

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