VAN DER LINDE RESTAURANT
BEST FOR Business lunches and family dinners. FOOD This restaurant – with an adjacent bakery, a deli, and a wine-and-gin bar – has a small well-thought-out menu. There’s a burger section plus a number of smaller plates and interesting salads, including one with roasted cauliflower and sweet potato, butter beans and parmesan. The ‘classics’ menu includes parmesan-crusted chicken breast, home-made pappardelle in a bright tomato sauce, and salmon fishcakes with green salad and aïoli. If you have space, try a slice of freshly baked cake, crème brûlée or poached stone fruit with olive-oil sabayon. DRINKS The wine list features some knockouts, like Adi Badenhorst’s Secateurs, plus a selection from Springfield. There's also a limited offering of standard SAB brews, as well as CBC and Devil’s Peak craft beer. Don’t overlook the extensive smoothie menu, fresh juices and soft drinks. SERVICE Pleasant and efficient. AMBIENCE Bright and airy, with a buzz. (JS)