La Mouette - Fancy a dinner for two?

You may well have heard about La Mouette already. It's the restaurant that sparked the infamous Rossouwgate. I actually felt for them, as JP's review of the restaurant was totally overshadowed by the scathing attack that was mounted by readers in the comments section. People totally lost the plot, and more importantly lost sight of JP's opinions. I haven't reviewed La Mouette, as the only eating experience I have had there was the invitation to a chef's table as part of their launch. I can't provide a fair review based on that meal, but I can tell you the food I ate was sublime. I have also heard from others - who's opinion I trust - that their experiences have been equally good. La Mouette seems to be the real deal, and with an undoubtedly beautiful setting it's worth checking out, even if only for a drink or two.  

But what makes it categorically worth a trip is the special they are currently running. R150 for a 6 course tasting menu. That's bloody good value. Even if the food is only average (which I'm confident it won't be) that's worth visiting for isn't it? Dishes like crispy calamari with paprika, fish soup with potato, mussels and leek and tuna tartare with avocado and rocket promise brilliant value for that price.  

What? Still not convinced? How about half-price cocktails in the new upstairs bar. What's that? Does it have a TV? Yes my dear, it has a flat-screen showing all the football. 

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I'm giving away dinner for two at La Mouette. All you have to do is tell me which teams will be playing in the Cape Town semi-final of the World Cup. Yip, guess those teams and dinner is yours. 

I'll give everyone until 5pm tomorrow to have their predictions in. In the case of more than one person being correct we'll have a draw. 

Go. Go. Go. 

Cheers,

Jamie Who

If you don't win, but still want to check the place out, try their website 

Dear Me - Could, and should, be amazing

Remember this day. The day you were browsing through a couple of blogs and stumbled across Cape Town's hottest new bar/restaurant THREE AND A HALF MONTHS BEFORE IT OPENED. How could this be? Let me explain.

On Monday night I was invited for dinner to crit a sample menu for a new restaurant set to open on the 1st of June. The place is going to be called Dear Me and sounded interesting. Situated just off Long Street and Greenmarket Square in the building that used to have that really weird Russian champagne/oyster/caviar bar in it, I was intrigued. (I think it was called Sobeit back then.) Anyway, Dear Me is to be set on three levels and promises a lunch menu focusing on light, healthy meals, a more substantial dinner menu, private dining areas/function rooms and my favourite...a rooftop bar with awesome views. Sound good? Thought so. 

Back to dinner. Amazing. Eight of us enjoyed a six course meal, talking music, art, food and wine (not in that dry, poncy way that is so common with pretentious "foodies" but more in a way that showed just how passionate the owners are.) The courses we had were reflective of how chef Vanessa (previously of Cassia) sees the food being served and were all excellent. There was a definite style to her food, as she tried - and succeeded - to produce healthy food that was still interesting. As regular readers of this blog will know, I'm a huge believer that this is possible and anyone who disagrees would certainly have been proven wrong had they been there on Monday. We sampled tomato consumme with fresh petit pois and basil, a chicory, couscous and pomegranate salad, sauteed wild mushrooms with asparagus and truffle oil, vanilla scented quail and more. We even had a semillon sorbet which was an unusual and brillant palette cleanser. 

Speaking to the Dear Me team, it is obvious that they have put a strong emphasis on design and decor elements. This is often a worry for me, as the actual food doesn't get the attention it should. That wasn't the case on Monday though and I reckon if they produce this level of food when they open they'll be fine. Better than fine actually. Watch this space. 

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Jardine - Now serving lunch

There's something pretty exciting happening. Well...exciting if you love amazing chow at silly prices. What's that? You do. Well then listen up. 

From today Jardine in Bree Street is serving lunch upstairs on Wednesdays (fake Fridays to me anyway) and Fridays (umm...real Fridays I guess). For the first two weeks they're having a launch special where starters are priced from R40-R60 and mains are at R80. Desserts come in at R40. So...three courses cooked by one of the best chefs in the country, at one of the best restaurants in the country, will sting you about R160. Call the cops people, that's a steal. Dishes like Saldanha Bay Oysters, West Coast Mussels, Roasted Line Fish, Ribeye with green beans and Dark Chocolate Mousse feature. The vibe is that they bring fresh, seasonal meals out quickly with no stuffing around so that - if you want to - you can be in and out pretty quickly but still get a killer meal. Sounds like a win. 

Give them a shout on (021) 424-5640.  

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Cafe Chic - I am flat out digging the look

I get a lot of press releases. Having worked in a PR agency and written loads of them myself, I can tell which are worth getting excited about and which aren't. That said, I get particularly interested when I receive something from The Network Queen. She works for a company who consistently organise awesome launches/events and when I get an invite from her I'm there. So...I was particularly bummed when I realised I couldn't attend the launch of Cafe Chic. Looking at the pics she sent through I can say that this place screams Jamie Who (you did see the purple chandelier hey?). I obviously can't comment on the food but the overall look and the general vibe make me a little bit excited in my privates. 

The press blurb explains that there are:

two fine dining restaurants, premium Whiskey Bar, Cocktail Lounge, Moroccan chill-out tent, Patisserie corner and exclusive Boutique. 

 

I'm okay with that. 

The menu itself also looks impressive. There is a definite French accent to most dishes and a strong emphasis on seafood. There is a separate tapas menu (you know how much I enjoy a tapas menu) and they also do a Sunday brunch. Obviously the breakfasts should be impressive with a specialist patisserie section. So expect things like fresh croissants, Croque-Monsieur, brioche, quiches etc. 

As I said, I can't make the official opening but they are already trading. Find them at 7 Breda Street or call them on (021) 465-7218. 

If you do stop by to check it out let me know if it as cool as it looks. 

Cheers,

Jamie Who

The new, improved sidewalk cafe - I will take our reader's word for it

A while back I posted the first entry inspired by a reader. Well, The Brother of The Other Guy Who Can Cook is at it again. This time he e-mailed me an emotional roller-coaster of a letter swinging from disgust ("How can you have the logo of Ocean Basket on such a beautiful site?") to excitement ("I discovered a place serving the best R20 breakfast in Cape Town") to desperation ("Where can I get meat aged for more than 25 days?"). Yeah look, our boy covered quite a wide range of things in one e-mail!

I will break it down for you though. A few years back when I was living nearby, I used to go and have a couple of glasses of wine pretty often at a little place in Vredehoek called The Sidewalk Cafe. Location-wise it was a cracker but the food was AVERAGE AT BEST. The whole place was tired and in need of a makeover. I drove past a few weeks ago and saw that there was an entirely different vibe going on. A good vibe. The type of vibe I wanted to be part of. The type of vibe I want you to be part of. So, after getting some heads-up from a few people I was intrigued. The fact that The Brother of The Other Guy Who Can Cook gives it the thumbs up is all I need. R20. For a full-on breakfast with egg, crispy bacon, proper tomatoes and toasted sourdough. Yes please. He goes on to tell me the new owners are the same team behind Bombay Bicycle Club. Interesting. Apparently they do a good lunch too. Definitely add it to your list of places to visit. I am.

So guys, as I've said before, please write in and tell me about cool places to go, restaurants you have had amazing times at, restaurants that were fu*king horrible, new recipes you have tried out etc. I'm not saying The Brother of The Other Guy Who Can Cook is making you look bad...but...well...he kind of is. If you're on this blog then you already have an interest in food. Let's share the love.

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Reuben's at The Robertson - There are worse places to go

Boutique is a word that gets me very excited. Especially when it is followed by the word hotel. Hey?!! How awesome are boutique hotels? They're always a bit quirky, a bit edgy, a little off-the-beaten-track and they are always...and I mean always boasting beauiful interior design. There is a definite trend towards small towns opening up some kick-ass places to stay and areas like Stanford, Greyton, Riebeek Kasteel, Wellington and Langebaan all spring to mind. So, when I heard about the new Robertson Small Hotel in...umm...ROBERTSON, I was more than a bit intrigued. That was before I even knew that Reuben Riffel (of Reuben's in Franschoek fame) was opening a second venue there. The plan is to serve up natural, seasonal produce with an emphasis on organic fare where possible. With a menu boasting items like sweetbreads, wing rib, and chorizo-crusted fish it is safe to say the expectations are high. The restaurant has sourced as much as possible from nearby suppliers - something that already earns massive points in my book. Breakfasts are placed on a pedestal too, so they clearly know how to play to my weaknesses. (Brioche with bacon, pomegranate syrup, clotted cream and rocket sound good to anyone else or is just me?)

The hotel itself has 10 rooms, 2 swimming pools, a stylish bar which I could definitely enjoy a few drinks in and a modern wine cellar. I can think of much worse ways to spend the weekend. To find out more check out their site at http://www.therobertsonsmallhotel.com/

Reuben has been relatively quiet lately in terms of accolades - is this perhaps a return to former glory?

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Bistro Sixteen82 - Steenberg just keeps giving

I love Steenberg. There's something very "pleasantville" about it all. Golf carts everywhere, families going for walks, kids riding bikes, joggers doing their thing, dogs sniffing arses etc. The whole thing just works! I thoroughly enjoy it. And...with our own little slice of heaven on the 13th fairway, I am more than happy to go spend the odd weekend out there, playing golf and just chilling hard.

Besides the amazing vineyards, there is also a GORGEOUS five-star hotel. The clubhouse is a good place to have a beer and watch rugby and their restaurant - Catharina's - is a good display of fine dining. So, generally, I am very happy with Steenberg's vibe. Imagine my excitement then when Long Distance shot through an e-mail saying they were opening a new restaurant. He told me it was going to serve bistro food, which I absolutely love if it is done properly. I investigated a bit more (as I do...for you) and it seems he was right. The menu has 3 price options of R155, R185 or R220 per person and that gets you three courses. The price then obviously determines the complexity of the menu. SAMPLES of the MAIN COURSES for the three categories are: Gnocchi with pancetta, spring peas and parmesan, aged Ribeye with bearnaise sauce and scallops and crawfish with blood orange and fennel.

Set to open on the 13th of November, the restaurant is to be called Bistro Sixteen82. The man in charge is Brad Ball, previously at River Cafe and Olympia Cafe. When I called them, the woman I spoke to explained the food as simple and fresh and according to www.eatout.co.za there will also be a raw bar featuring oysters, sashimi, ceviche etc.

I can see myself there in Summer. Salmon tartar (you can make me one of those, right?) and a glass of Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc. Yes please.

Cheers,

Jamie Who

La Boheme Wine Bar & Bistro - I can't wait

As one of the better managers I have ever encountered, Faisal - previously of Caveau - has moved on and has opened his own place in Sea Point. I am ashamed to say I have still not been but the reviews so far are promising.

With his experience at Caveau, it makes sense that his winelist would be impressive and apparently it is. More than 50 types of wine are available by the glass and reports are that there is an impressive range. If Faisal's professionalism at Caveau was anything to go by you can bet on a strong emphasis being placed on service too and with main courses coming in at R70 it sounds like it could be next on my list of restaurants to visit.

The sample menu looks like dressed-up bistro food and sounds delicious. (Oven-roasted duck, Grilled lamb rack with potatoes, Roast pork belly with mustard mash etc.)

A recap: good food, good wine. So...see you there?

Find them at 341 Main Road, Sea Point or call them on (021) 434-8797.

Cheers,

Jamie Who

P.S. Thanks to eatout for the pic

Red Mango - Welcome

It was good to be back in Jozi this weekend. I got to see some old faces, I got to eat at some cool restaurants, I got to drink Coffee-Patrone and spank the planks a bit. Most of all though, I got to eat Red Mango frozen yoghurt. I don't care how gay this sounds but holy monkey I love frozen yoghurt. Seriously, what's not to love? It's like yoghurt but COLD.

Aaaaanyway...after taking in some shopping and a nice lunch in the new wing of Melrose Arch with Superman and The Goob we came across Red Mango. Those not in the know probably haven't heard of it but let me tell you a little something. Red Mango is massive in the States and is made so much cooler to me by the fact that you can't get it here. I want you to imagine something. Imagine some girls strolling through Melrose Arch and coming across a Zara. Imagine them screaming, clapping and jumping up and down. Imagine the excitement. Now imagine those girls were me and that Zara was Red Mango. That's pretty much what we're dealing with here.

I walked in and took my seat in the white plastic bubble-booths (I made that up. It explains them perfectly and next time you're there use it. Use it like "Hey guys, let's sit in the bubble-booths." Act cool.) Basically, what you do is order some frozen yoghurt and choose from healthy toppings like watermelon, granola, almonds, strawberries etc. If you want them to blend it up into a smoothie they can do that too. They have some salads and wraps too I think, but to be honest I was too focused on the frozen yoghurt. The anticipation was too much.

To cut a long story short it was worth it. Now, I know what you're saying. You're saying it's just the novelty that made it cool. Like when we first had McDonalds, Pepsi or Pringles all those years back. Well, you might be right. But for now, I'm going to eat them like an eskimo until the novelty wears off. At least it's healthy. (Well, sort of. Yes, it is non-fat and natural but there still about 200 calories in a small cup so be careful.)

Red Mango, welcome to SA. Now hurry up and get to Cape Town. CAN YOU IMAGINE ONE ON THE CAMPS BAY STRIP??!!!

If you want to see what I'm talking about check them out on http://www.redmangousa.com/. You could also go to Melrose Arch.

Cheers,
Jamie Who

Earth Fair food market - do they sell dream catchers?

So, it seems there is another new food market to try. Dubbed "The Earth Fair Food Market" I must be honest I am a bit skepitcal. It sounds a bit hippy-ish for me. They do promise a wide range of goods though. Free-range meat, a fishmonger, organic fruit and vegetables, a baker and a wine merchant (great title to have on your business card, don't you think? Merchant. Jamie Who...Food merhcant. Nice)

There is a coffee shop, a sushi stand and sparkling wine apparently. It could be a worth a trip? It runs on a Saturday from 9:00am to 2:00pm. Find it in Tokai between the Builder's Warehouse and the Reader's Warehouse...

Cheers,

Jamie Who

This just in: It seems The Pom visited the above market last week. She tells me it was pretty average. It was their opening day though so maybe a few teething problems? If any of you go let me know your thoughts...

Another one bites the dust

Guys, I must apologise in advance for my posts in the next few days. As I wade my way through oysters, wine and planning a wedding I'm afraid this blog might be a bit neglected. But I need you to know I am not neglecting YOU. I still love YOU as much as ever. I love your laugh, your bum, the silly little way you toss your hair from your face when you eat pasta...

Aaaaaaaaaanyway, I have some good news and some bad news. I always start with the bad news so here we go. Nova, one of Cape Town's most exciting restaurants, is closing down. With Richard Carstens at the helm, there is a general feeling with those "in-the-know" that his style of food was simply too advanced. Like me when I wear my running tights, people just weren't ready for it. This is a very sad day for me, as I really loved that place. It was one of my first reviews (http://jamiewhatshisname.blogspot.com/search/label/Restaurant%20review) and I am bummed to see them close their doors. 

The good news is that the team behind Beluga and Sevruga are working on something new. Called, "Blonde", it seems their new spot will be aimed at fine dining and will only be open for dinner. There isn't too much info out there on this one but watch this space. You know, and I know, that when there is word on the street I will be bringing it to you IMMEDIATELY. 

Well, I better get going. Oysters await. 

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Triangle Square Food Market - There are two shapes in their name

I'm starting another new tag here for "food markets", as I believe they are the cornerstone of all would-be chefs. There is nothing better than cruising a high-quality food market checking out the amazing produce on show. The attraction for me is meeting the people behind the food and having a chat with them. In the modern-age of supermarkets and convenience shopping we are all guilty of buying vegetables already cut up and in a bag. We buy sliced fruit, peeled potatoes and cubed butternut. Are we really that lazy? Cheese shouldn't come in a tub, already grated and meat should be bought from someone wearing an apron. Here, breads can still be bought warm and watching a fishmonger fillet the fish you have chosen yourself is surprisingly pleasing. But what makes food-markets extra-cool is the way most of them punt the little guy. The small wineries and the microbrewed beer are always on offer and as a result you get to see and more importantly taste the effort that goes into preparing everything. I absolutely love it.

Now, let me introduce you guys to one that is new on the scene: the triangle square market. Located in Fish Hoek, this market has the usual vinegars, pestos, preserves, nuts and cheese. It also has a West Coast seafood deli, a Cape Malay section, spectacular biltong, and Guiness-and-steak pies. Not a kak idea for winter.

This is defintiely a place to visit after a good session in the gym, where you leave the guilt behind. It is open every Saturday from 9am to 2pm and can be found at 60 Main Road, Fish Hoek.

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Curry. In a hurry.

Do you like what I did with the headline there? It's funny...because it rhymes.

Anyway, let's get to it. You know the old Wellington Fruit Growers Market in town? No? It's the old building forming a corridor from Longmarket all the way to Darling Street. Well, it seems the team behind Jewel of India at The Waterfront have turned the space into a quasi-Indian foodmarket. As well as Indian food there is an Istanbul stand as well as a little China Town. So whether it's falafals or Szechwan noodles you're looking for, you're in luck.

The decor sounds pretty awesome too. Cobble-stone walkways, hanging buckets alongside chandeliers, wooden screens, carved doors and granite tables. You place your order at a central counter before collecting your food from your chosen stall. With prices for MAIN dishes ranging from R20 - R30, this place seems like the best value for money in Cape Town.

It is open from 11am to 9-30pm and can be found at The Wellington. If you can't find it just get close, get out your car and follow the smell of the spices. I am super-excited about this one and can't wait to check it out.

Cheers,

Jamie Who

The Quarter - a breath of fresh air

Bruce Robertson loves pushing the envelope. With a long list of achievements, including Chef of The Year at The Wine Awards 2004, consistent Eat Out Top 10 restaurants of the year appearances (2003-2008) and being chosen to feature in Conde Nast's Top 100 international Hot Spots in 2007 and 2008 he is without doubt one of the country's best chefs. What makes his food so special though, what makes it stand apart, is the sense of humour that it displays.

The unfortunate recent closing of The Showroom has allowed Robertson to concentrate on other projects - one of them being the awesome concept of dressing up one of South Africa's most authentic dishes...the bunny chow. With custom-baked bread, The Quarter offers a wide range of fillings including mutton, venison and goat. There is a vegetarian option as well as more exotic items such as oxtail and crayfish. The quarters are priced at around R45. 

Having been blown away by his creations in the past - most recently his coca-cola basted ribs at The Taste Food Festival - I cannot wait to try this place. You can find it at 44 Long Street. 

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Cheers,

Jamie Who

Hudsons Burger Joint

I was lying in bed last night practicing ab crunches and thinking of you guys when I had a thought - it's not fair that there is only one of me. I mean, how am I supposed to visit the restaurants of Cape Town (and hopefully the rest of SA at some stage) and report back to you on them when the simple fact is there are too many. We are spoilt for choice.

Now, I know you guys come here to stay ahead of the game. You want to know which restaurants are cool, where the best deals are and what is breaking news in the food scene. So, with this in mind, I have decided to start a "fresh out the oven" category. Basically this will allow me to keep you guys informed as stuff happens, as opposed to me having to visit a place and then write it up. (I will still do this by the way)

Today is the first story to fall into that category and arrives in the form of a spanking new venue in Kloof Street. David Raad, the man behind the famous Caprice in Camp's Bay, has launched Hudsons Burger Joint. Their plan is to serve the best burgers in town in a funky setting, and with whole-grain meat, sourdough rolls, vanilla lemonade and killer decor they are off to a good start. The have looked to New York eateries for inspiration in terms of the layout and design and the actual burgers are made in-house every morning. They claim to have less than 5% fat and they offer a chickpea and lentil veggie burger too. Are they the best in Cape Town? Time will tell. If you've already checked them out let me know what you think in the comments section, or drop me a mail on jamiewhoblog@gmail.com

Get hold of them on 079 8777 688.

Cheers,

Jamie Who