Trendy eatery with a difference

Café: Bownies and Downies Address: Shop 7, 2 Long Street, Cape Town, 8001. Phone: 021 200 0459. Hours: 6:30am till 17:00 pm Monday to Friday Email: info@browniesanddownies.co.za

VIWE NDONGENI

BROWNIES and Downies in Bree Street is a trendy new eatery with a difference.

Its menu offers a range of breakfasts, sandwiches, light lunches, burgers and pastries; its staff are young adults with Down Syndrome, autism, foetal alcohol syndrome and learning disabilities.

The first thing that caught my eye as I entered were the motivational words on the bright blue walls and the décor, set off by a timber counter.

The seating area was refreshing, with flowers in a glass jar hanging from the ceiling. The chairs had a vintage traditional feel.

I arrived just after 9am and the place was not busy. A couple next to me had coffee with brownies served in a wooden squared tray.

The staff were friendly. As I waited for my friend to arrive, four waiters came to give me the menu and offered me a drink.

Once I was ready to order, two waiters came to our table; one appeared to be helping another, who was serving us.

I ordered the full English breakfast – a classic with eggs, bacon, sausage, mushroom and pan-seared roma tomatoes, served with toast. (R71)

My friend had the egg and salmon croissant with creamy scrambled eggs topped with smoked salmon on freshly baked croissants, and finished with a quenelle of dill crème fraiche. (R68)

The food presentation was good, but I didn’t really enjoy my meal.

I prefer my eggs well done but it came sunny side up. My friend enjoyed her freshly baked croissant; she said it was not sweet and not too crunchy.

The eatery is ideal for people who enjoy good company and contagious smiles to kick-start the day.

PICTURE: VIWE NDONGENI HEARTY: A full breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, mushroom and pan-seared roma tomatoes served with toast.