Fine courtyard dining
CONTEMPORARY EATERY: VISIT ARBOUR CAFÉ FOR A PROPER PARISIAN FEASTING EXPERIENCE
A hidden treasure with a host of yummy dishes.
Tucked in the lovely courtyard in the corner of Wrenrose Road in Illovo is what I like to call a hidden garden of palatable delights, an out-ofsight perfect spot for a bite of something delicious, a nibble on a sweet dessert and a space where one can take a few of one’s girlfriends for brunch or dinner and a lovely chat, be it over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.
Arbour Café is the ideal place for those that are into crêpes and galettes.
Entering the haven, my eyes were well fed way before my tummy was. The entrance serves as a mini introduction to the beauty of the gorgeous garden outside.
As one passes the kitchen, one is afforded the opportunity to smell the amazing delights the chef is preparing.
The garden that serves as the eating area was where I found my perfect seat for the visit.
Eager to explore the courtyard set up of the café, the food that I’ve heard lots of folk raving about and the service, I comfortably settled in the courtyard, a space best for enjoying the sunlight and the gentle summer breeze of Joburg,
But on this day, I was hoping to have a view of the sky and have the stars watching me from above as I enjoyed a scrumptious meal.
After being served a chilled glass of wine and placing my order, I got a chance to have a closer look at the place. It reminded me of a well-kept garden that is full of flowers with smells that complement each other, giving the place a fragrance that is enough to make any customer want to stay longer in the café. The white wrought iron tables and chairs, the fresh air outside, courtyard lighting and the stars are just some of the things customers can enjoy while waiting for the chef to put perfection on a plate for them to enjoy.
The greenery creeping up the walls, staircase and banisters are some of the details I loved most about the place.
Crispy duck confit with a spicy cherry sauce and crispy potato wedges as a side was what I ordered.
In just the perfect portion, the order was delivered before I could even finish my glass of wine.
Crispy outside but fairly tender inside was the duck, with the sauce bringing a little sweet taste. The potato wedges were just perfect as a starch. For pudding, I opted for the crêpes with the brandy flambéed orange butter sauce. I don’t have a sweet tooth, but I can guarantee you that this dessert is one that anyone who isn’t too keen on sweet treats would appreciate. Sitting there and marvelling at the setting and the food, I realised that people can also take in the sights and sounds of the bustle coming from the various shops neighbouring the eatery, such as the gift store, art gallery, hair salon, and fashion boutique.
If there ever was a place for an intimate event, ladies lunch, a birthday or just a few drinks after work, it has to be Arbour Café.