Sunday best
No matter how you end your weekend, we’ve got a spot for you.
/ Durban
The Chefs’ Table 1 Chartwell Dr, Umhlanga; 031 001 0200 A thriving eatery that’s always brimming with Durban’s who’s who, you’re sure to love the contemporary style, exquisite decor, gracious hospitality and delicious meals with exceptional flavours at The Chefs’ Table. For starters, the crispy squid (R100) and chicken oysters with truffle (R127) are crunchy and sensational. We loved the Merrivale fillet (R225) and the seared tuna (R228), and you have to try the scrumptious carrot cake (R87), too.
Pintxada 16 Chartwell Dr, Granada Square, Umhlanga; 082 688 1310 A warm atmosphere, and Spanish-style decor with a summery courtyard and cosy indoor Tarantino booths make this bespoke spot a true gem. The menu offers a wide array of dishes, but the meat dishes are the highlight here: think spit-roasted chicken (R130) or hearty sirloin (R160) – exquisite alternatives served with roast veg, chips or salad. And for dessert? We won’t say no to the rich and delectable churros (R45).
1904 Bistro Américain 12 Village Rd, Kloof; 031 035 0105 Nestled in the quiet suburb of Kloof, 1904 offers a truly extensive and lavish menu, which means there’s something delicious for every palette. For starters, we recommend the jalapeño poppers (R69) or the Louisiana cheesy prawn bake (R79) – both done American-style and loaded with flavour. For mains, the prawn linguine (R129) is exceptional. And if you’re in the mood for some soul food, the lamb shank (R199) is mouthwatering.
/ Joburg
Coobs 38 4th Ave, Parkhurst; 011 447 0710 If you’ve never visited the eclectic world that is Coobs, with its floor-to-ceiling vertical gardens and tables made from recycled wood, then you’re missing out. With a setting that mixes contemporary decor with the owner’s, chef James Diack, farm-life heritage and focus on sustainability, this is fine dining with a difference. The flagship dishes include wild boar ragu (R145) served with homemade pappardelle, and slow-braised pork belly (R195) with Asian greens, squash purée or Parmesan risotto. To drink? Get the pineapple gin fizz (R70) or choose from their niche wine selection.
Gemelli Cucina Bar 13 Posthouse St, Posthouse Link Centre, Bryanston; 010 591 4333 This authentic Italian eatery – with its bright and modern furniture, city-loft settings, and vibrant and jovial environment – has been delighting the masses for over two years, and it keeps going strong with their classic dishes: tuck into the Ravioli di Gemelli (lango tails, cream cheese, mushrooms and shellfish crema; R189) or Honeymoon Risotto (prawn tails, shellfish stock, onion, garlic and rosa tomatoes; R185). Bellisimo!
Mash Braai House Cnr Witkoppen Rd and Nerine St, Witkoppen; 011 658 0213 Traditional SA cuisine meets ever-popular shisa nyama in a spot that’s all about bringing the crowds a taste of home. And it’s not surprising, with restaurateur Ngwato ‘Mash’ Mashilwane at the helm. Expect brilliant service, laid-back ambiance and perfectly-prepared dishes like the mogodu (lamb tripe) with samp (R110), and the meat platter for two (chicken, wors, lamb and beef chops; R285). Then wash it all down with their signature mojito (R65).
/ Cape Town
The Restaurant Main Rd, Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Franschhoek; 021 876 8600 What better way to spend a Sunday than with a picturesque drive to The Restaurant, tucked between the vineyards and mountain peaks – a perfect backdrop to beautifully-plated dishes, like the poke bowl (prawns, tempura veg, daikon and wasabi; R130), pork and carrot curry (R230), and mango and hazelnut crumble (R110).
Blanko Alphen Dr, Alphen Boutique Hotel, Constantia; 021 795 6313 Blanko is a chic hangout for both young and old, with a vibe made for relishing in splendid company and a live jazz band. We particularly loved the threecourse set menu (R240) with fried calamari, sirloin and orange crème brûlée – a sumptuous conclusion to any meal.
Mary-ann’s Emporium & Eatery 74 Mountainside Blvd, Wasabi Park, Gordon’s Bay; 021 856 2500 Looking for something casual and healthy? This the place for you. This cosy restaurant serves gluten-free and vegan meals at their all-you-can-eat buffet (R120), which serves up divine salads, chickpea curry, cashew pizza, and fresh fruit and veg juices (R40).