PAVEMENT SPECIALS
Hole-in-the-wall eateries are a dime a dozen in Cape Town. Allison Foat shares eight gems, hidden favourites that are low on notoriety and price, simply styled and where the focus is on food
MARROW
Walk through the Hanging Noren at 83 Loop Street and you’ll find minimalist Marrow, a broth bar owned by the self-confessed soup addicts Dennis Williams and Jeanne Marais. The interior, with counters and low stools flanking each wall, is specifically designed to encourage swift inand-out foot traffic while delivering a prime experience. The offering is simple: four broth types that are prepped and beautifully presented by the talented trio in the kitchen. Choices are the clear (Asian style), the white (vegan with coconut milk and veg), the green (dashi-based pescatarian option with umami flavours) and the brown (inspired by North African spices with meaty flavours).
You would kick yourself if you missed: The clear bowl, a bone broth seasoned with soy sauce and served with roasted chicken, chorizo, spring onion and julienne carrots. Plop a turkish delight square into your mouth afterwards, made from ginger, tamarind and other secret ingredients.
83 Loop Street, Cape Town CBD www.marrowbroth.co.za. Tel: 079 5563 647
LITTLE ETHIOPIA
Opened in 2011 by Ethiopian Yeshi Mekonnen, this is in the heart of the CBD and hailed as the go-to spot for simple, traditional fare.
On offer are marvellous meaty stews that come with gluten-free injera (spongy pancakes) on the side. For vegetarians, try the gomen (collard greens), and kik alicha (split pea dish). Great fingerfood and meal sharing at its most satisfying.
You would kick yourself if you missed: The doro wot, a spicy chicken stew made with berbere (Ethiopian chili paste), kibe (spiced butter) and garlic.
76 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town CBD, www.littleethiopia.co.za, Tel: 021 424 8254
ROYALTEASA
It’s fairly rare to find an authentic teashop like this tea emporium which is causing a stir with a range of speciality teas guaranteed to pique your interest. Royaltea goes beyond the ordinary and has tea lovers all over town in a tizz. It’s a friendly place, and the owners Jacob McGowan and his wife Lanty Zhou from China have created a welcoming atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists alike. You would kick yourself if you missed: Cheese tea, a popular new drink described as a refreshing tea base with a light cream cheese topping sprinkled with matcha powder.
Shop G11, Lifestyle on Kloof, 50 Kloof Street, Gardens, Tel: 072 6531 715