Zanele Kumalo

This reinvigorated eatery, with a fresh new design, serves simple food made from very obviously fresh ingredients. They’ve upped their game but kept it cool, chic and honest.

Food
The portions are very generous. Two of the favourites – a large plate of deep-fried calamari that’s tender, crispy and non-greasy, and light Thai-style fishcakes rolled into four golden balls are both accompanied by a crunchy Asian green salad that leaves a fragrant kick in your mouth from the well-balanced flavours.

For meatier ambitions, there are dishes that include juicy handmade beef burgers, roast pork belly and a decadently sauced pepper steak. On a lighter note, go for salads with rice noodles and dressings like fynbos vinaigrette and a breakfast menu with lovely Benedicts, burritos and pancakes.

You can have your cake and eat it, too – signature ones are available to order whole, plus cheesecakes, artisan ice creams and brownies will keep even those with the biggest sweet tooth happily indulged.

Drinks
South African wines and a mix of bubbles and beers that include a few trendy craft options (a number on tap). It makes up an unintimidating selection. It also includes standard cocktails, whiskeys, liqueurs, aperitifs, digestifs and non-alcoholic fare highlighted by a homemade ginger-mint tea.

Service
The waiters are attentive and enthusiastic, adding to a welcoming, no-fuss atmosphere.

Ambience
For those who find it difficult to dine alone, this is the kind of place that will shift that kind of thinking. There are enough nooks to tuck yourself into while you mix with the kinds of families, couples and crowds who are just there to have a good time and enjoy an unpretentious meal.

(2018)

Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our full editorial policy here.