The food is delicious and fresh and they also offer an excellent drinks menu.

On the day of my visit, I opted for the Chocolate Cookie milkshake (so good!) and Italian Salami sandwich. Overall, everything about my meal was blissful.

Yoco Eatery offers a beautiful setting, great food and drinks and good service. Best of all, it is the ideal place to go to enjoy some ‘met time’, treat a loved one or catch-up with friends new and old.

This eatery is, in many respects, a hidden food oasis in the bustling heart of Durbanville – and I love that about it!

 

Boston Coffee: Gourmet Sandwiches and a Friendly Vibe

Boston Coffee is a true favourite among locals. In fact, I have had several people rave about it to me – and most recently received a strong recommendation to visit them for a anonymous review… Which is precisely what I did. 🙂

I am pleased to report that yes, Boston Coffee is indeed a local gem – and a truly vibey spot to boot. Here, you find a mix of quirky, interesting decor (think: bold wall art and an impressive blackboard menu), extremely friendly staff (it must be the coffee!) and great menu. This features coffee, milkshakes, sourdough sandwiches, pastries, all-day breakfasts and more.

Their great, freshly roasted coffee is proudly handcrafted and brewed in Boston, Bellville. And, best of all, the coffee beans are for sale in-store, along with other Boston Coffee merchandise, such as caps and t-shirts.

Extensive Coffee Menu and Tasty Sandwiches

Boston Coffee has one of the most extensive coffee menu I have ever seen. It even features Turkish coffee and my personal favourite, Affogato! The front of store even looks like a crazy coffee laboratory with all that brewing/coffee equipment!

The coffee shop’s decor is earthy and busy, with plenty to take in while you enjoy your coffee or meal. Guests can enjoy sitting inside, outside or even at the back in a closed off, porch-like area.

For my first visit, I decided to opt for one of their sandwiches (they have a tempting selection so it’s hard to pick) and a delicious Boston Mocha.

My drink was sweet enough to not require any added sugar and features a dash of hot chocolate. It was definitely yummy. My toasted sandwich, meanwhile, was equally great; I ordered the Mushroom, Feta, Cheddar Bacon one. (It’s made with rosemary, pan-fried mushrooms… so good!)

For what you get, their food, especially the sandwiches, and drinks are well-priced. Plus, I love that the sandwiches are all served on beautiful sourdough bread (my favourite), with their specialty sweet mustard sauce added.

Boston Coffee is a lovely, bustling stop and definitely draws in the locals, with many regulars seated there daily… I think I can see why too.

Tip: When you visit, remember to order up front – your orders will then be brought to your table and you can pay upfront or afterwards.

Note: Boston Coffee is closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

Contact: +27 (076) 153 9450

Website: www.bostoncoffee.co.za

Suburb/area: Bellville

 

The Daily Coffee Cafe: Caffeine is Loading…

The Daily Coffee Cafe is a cafe franchise that forms part of The Daily Coffee Group, which is based around SA – but in the Northern Suburbs, there are several lovely branches to try. Including the Willowbridge and Brackenfell branches that I have personally sampled.

These cafe branches are lovely with good service and quality food- and drink-options. Their varied menu has a great selection of meals, takeaway goodies and of course, hot- and cold-beverages too.

Honestly, the New-York-meets-Karoo decor theme – which this South African franchise group is known for – feels both decidedly homely and fun.

And not only do their cafes look great but they also all usually offer a warm ambience to complement their wonderfully varied menu.

Food and Drinks for All Tastes

The larger-than-life menus seem to give a nod to the Big Apple vibe with their creativeness (as do elements of the decor). But more tellingly, The Daily Coffee Cafe offers a selection of food and drinks to suit everyone.

Vegetarians are certainly catered for, given that there are quite a few noticeably vegetarian-friendly menu items, including almond milk.

Food and drinks are competitively priced. But, in saying that, I must add that it is quite multi-layered in terms of flavour and ingredients. And their food offerings are generously portioned!

Food options include a wide range of breakfasts, cakes and sweet treats, kiddies’ meals (it is definitely child-friendly), wraps, burgers and more.

We have tried the Bacon and Spinach Potato Rosti Eggs Benedict and Beef Burger and thoroughly enjoyed both meals.

Drinks are well-priced and sized. They also have a nice selection, which is far broader than most cafes.

Their Tin Can Coffee (served with condense milk… yum!), for example, is a really good drinks’ option.

I love coffee shops, which not only look and feel the part – but, in a sense, they ‘taste’ it too.

And yes, the coffee – and freezos – here (based on my experiences) are excellent. Their coffee consists of quality blends, with full bodied aromas. Plus, it is oh-so-good in terms of taste and presentation too!

Overall, service at both their Willowbridge and Brackenfell cafe branches feel prompt and friendly to me, without being overbearing.

You are served quickly enough (even during peak lunch hours) and then pleasantly left to enjoy your orders in peace.

So, if you are looking for a promising locale and charming cafe for a lunch break, coffee date or simply a cosy catchup, head to The Daily Coffee Cafe; I know I will!

Tip: The Daily Coffee Cafe is open daily. Opening hours may vary depending on the day of the week.

Contact: various

Website: thedailycoffeecafe.co.za

Suburb/area: Bellville and Brackenfell

 

Soet Society Café: Luxurious Social Spot

Dreamed up by Leigh Leonard and Zillah Brits in 2010, Soet Society Café is one of the most popular spots in central Durbanville. It forms part of the ladies’ concept store emporium, Soet Emporium. Housed under which you can find eight uniquely varied shops. (Everything from The Winelands Art Gallery to The Hair Loft and more.)

On a Saturday especially, this posh café heaves with customers, as a constant stream arrive at the door.

The café is sumptously decorated. It definitely has the feel of a luxury parlor, with its plush chairs, oversized velvet cushions and trailling foliage.

Although Soet offers a range of different breakfasts, lunches and hot/cold beverages… there is no denying that this cafe-meets-bakery is most famed for their cakes. Soet Cakes sell designer cakes for every special occasion. Be it a weekend treat, birthday or wedding.

In particular, their cake platters make for a sinfully good choice.

Cake Platters – Need I Say More?

For R79 (almost a steal in comparison to most cake spots), you can enjoy four different slices of cake. These can be selected from whatever is available on the day. Cakes change daily and the flavours, designs and toppings are varied and fascinating.

I had a hard time choosing on my first visit. But eventually opted for the Hummingbird, Carrot cake log, Bar One and Rainbow cake.

The cakes were all gorgeous and fresh. The platter is an excellent concept and is ideally suited for sharing because it is very filling! (Otherwise, if you order it on your own, expect to leave with takeaway cake!)

I loved the Hummingbird most but Carrot Cake Log is one of the best I have had. The Rainbow Cake, meanwhile, was unusually nice, with good flavours. The Bar One, oddly my least favourite, is rich but smooth and lovely.

Still, for me, the standouts were definitely Hummingbird and the Carrot Cake Log.

I certainly feel that Soet is a standout for its cakes, location and opulent interiors. The interior designs add a sense of occasion to even the simplest of coffee runs.

But to me, Zillah herself adds the most wonderful, welcoming presence of all. And she is an absolute pleasure to deal with.

Overall, Soet Society Café is cosy and vibey, with decent, strong coffee (Bootleggers) and a varied menu. Some meal options feel slightly pricey. But Soet offers plenty of selection in terms of food and drinks. Plus, vegetarians and vegans are also catered to.

Soet, as its name implies, is very much a social society spot to go with friends or family. So it is ideally suited to spoiling those you love in a classy surrounding.

Tip: To order Soet Cakes, why not use their online catering and ordering service? Or try their newest concept eatery, Soet on the Go. (It’s situated over at Village Square.)

Contact: +27 (021) 975 5294,  info@soetemporium.co.za

Website: soetemporium.co.za

Suburb/area: Durbanville

Cassia at Nitida: Classy, Deck-style Dining

Named for the bold, intriguing spice (also known as Asian cinnamon), Cassia at Nitida is a beautiful, stylish restaurant in the Durbanville winelands. Serving hearty breakfasts, lunches and classy dinners, it’s a great place to go for a special occasion or a fun brunch with friends.

Cassia is known and loved for its breakfasts. These are hard to choose from because they all look, taste and sound amazing!

Their poached eggs on ciabatta toast were generously portioned, delicious and beautifully presented – a definite breakfast of champions for me!

Classy Cassia

They also have lovely lunch- and dinner-menus – although these are on the pricier side so just be advised of that.

Cassia’s kitchen- and front-of-house-teams ensure you enjoy incredible food – perfect for pairing with Nitida’s own award-winning wines – and good service to boot.

When dining at Cassia, you can sit indoors or out on the picturesque deck, which overlooks the pretty dam. Before or after your meal, why not take a stroll nearby to see the vineyards or even a slow walk down to the estate’s other restaurant, Tables at Nitida? The estate is very pretty and well-worth exploring.

Cassia is also a great venue for hosting weddings, conferences and other functions and is sure to help you create lasting memories in a special spot.

Tip:

If Cassia is a bit pricey for you, try their other estate restaurant, Tables at Nitida.

It’s a charming, little child-friendly spot, in a beautiful setting and is slightly more affordable than its sister restaurant. The menu is equally lovely – and they make possibly the best cakes around!

Contact: +27 (021) 976 0640, info@cassiarestaurant.co.za
Website: nitida.co.za
Suburb/area: Durbanville Winelands

 

The Olive Bistro: Great Food and Service Every Time

Now located in the heart of Durbanville, The Olive Bistro has, since its opening in 2012, cemented itself as a local favourite in the Northern Suburbs. What started out as a French-style bistro quickly adjusted to the wishes of its patrons by evolving into a relaxed, yet cosy pizzeria.

Just as well for customers too because Olive Bistro makes some of the best, thin-based, wood-fired pizzas around.

With a selection of different cuisines – everything from South African to international influences – The Olive Bistro offers excellent variety and a nice choice of starters, mains and desserts too!

I have tried their food on at least three occasions (including for a busy staff function, where they impressed with their hands-on service and catering) and been impressed every time. They are consistently good.

Incredible Pizzas and Warm Service

With everything from pastas to pizzas and burgers and lovely outdoor seating in a really relaxed, yet secluded setting, this hidden gem is perfect for memorable meals with your friends and family.

Yet perhaps what makes them truly memorable is their firm belief in good, warm service, which is always apparent. Even when you order takeaways from them.

This restaurant is open daily, making them ideal for a lovely lunch or dinner (except on Sundays when they close a bit earlier).

Tip: If you can’t visit them, order online and enjoy in the comfort of your home, as they are available on MrD.

Contact: +27 (021) 975 5082, info@olivebistro.co.za
Website: www.olivebistro.co.za
Suburb/area: Durbanville

 

Sweetbeet Willowbridge: Health Eats and Fun Fresh Food for the Win

In 2021, Sweetbeet opened its bright and cheery looking doors at Willowbridge – and Northern Suburbs diners have been happy ever since. If you love health-conscious food and drink, made fresh daily using the finest ingredients, then this spot is perfect for you.

Everything on their varied menu – from the breakfast bowls to the toasts and smoothies and shakes – looks and sounds excellent so choosing what to order is difficult! I also love that they have adopted a playful, fun approach to their menu names, especially their Super Shakes and Smoothies. These have cute names like Katy Berry (strongly recommended if you love smoothies!), Tropics at the Disco and Lil Wheyne.

I have ordered from them and I absolutely loved everything about my meal.

I ordered their Crushed Avo Goodness toasts (R68 for two poached eggs, crushed avo, cocktail tomatoes and parmesan served on a slice of sourdough rye bread) and Katy Berry smoothie (R65 for the large but so worth it, it is huge! This offers mixed berries, apple juice and mixed berry sorbet and tastes divine) and both were outstanding.

Sweeter in Person

In 2023, we finally got to visit the Willowbridge branch in person and I loved the experience. Service is friendly and their food and drinks never disappoint.

In addition to their Willowbridge branch (Shop 42), they also have their flagship branch at Canal Walk, Shop 54 and other Western Cape branches.

Health- and Planet-Conscious

In the past few years, I have been making a careful, conscious shift towards healthier, more organic and planet-friendly eating. This means that vegan, organic and healthy meals are definitely something I gravitate towards as much as possible. Sweetbeet is a delight in this regard. They have everything from healthy food and drinks to vegan- and gluten-friendly food options.

Another thing that stands out about Sweetbeet is their bright purple-and-green packaging. Not only is this a breath of fresh air from a branding perspective – but their packaging also subtly reminds you to recycle where you can.

Tip: If you can’t visit one of their branches, order online and enjoy in the comfort of your home, as they are available on MrD.

Contact: +27 (021) 565 0814
Website: www.sweetbeet.co.za
Suburb/area: Bellville

 

The Dairy Den: Sweet Treats with a Fun, Trendy Edge

For a while now, I have seen people posting about The Dairy Den and found myself dreaming about the day when I, too, sample their sweet treats. That day eventually came and I am pleased to report that, as the online posts showed, The Dairy Den does decadent treats and childlike fun extremely well!

This family-run business, which was created by sisters, Tasia and Lexi, has an even sweeter backstory to it. Growing with a grandfather  and then a father who made ice-cream and playing in the factory store no doubt influenced their dream – but at its heart, The Dairy Den was brought to life by love, family memories and creative thinking.

Now, with branches in Sea Point, Kenilworth Centre and Willowbridge in Bellville, The Dairy Den is fast becoming a household name in the Mother City. (If you haven’t yet seen their fun, playful neon store signage or decadent treats shared online, then it is only a matter of time before you do.)

With a delicious line of goods – everything from soft serves to coffee, double thick milkshakes, doughnut pops and decadent doughnuts, The Dairy Den is the perfect place to create your own special memories with family and friends, while enjoying quality, yet affordable, treats for the whole family.

Doughnut Heaven

I have only tried their doughnuts and doughnut pops so far – but let me tell you, the flavours and tastes are out of this world! With everything from Rolo gourmet and Chocolate Ganache to Cinnamon Sugar and even Turkish Delight gourmet options, there is plenty to get you drooling.

Also, the texture of the doughnuts is fresh and delicious, meaning that even the ‘plainest’ flavour tastes incredible.

I can’t wait to try the rest of their menu items… but until then, I am going to eat my way through their delicious doughnut options!

Tip: If you can’t visit one of their branches, order online through either UberEats or MrD and enjoy at home.

Contact: ilovethedairyden@gmail.com (contact numbers vary per store)
Website: www.thedairyden.com
Suburb/area: Bellville

 

Tony’s Fisheries and Take-Aways: Excellent Food and Service that Has Stood the Test of Time

Established in 1991, Tony’s has stood the test of time and garnered its own army of loyal patrons who return time and time again to enjoy their excellent food. With some of the best fish and chips in Cape Town, it’s hardly a wonder either!

With everything from top quality fish and chips to calamari, burgers, rolls (everything from chip rolls to German Russian rolls), kiddies’ options and some great family combos, Tony’s offers a wonderful array of takeaway eats for the whole family to enjoy together.

They are really passionate and dedicated in what they do and not only does the food taste amazing – but service is top notch too. If you are craving amazing takeaway food, local no further than this Durbanville institution.

Wholly Satisfying Fish and Chips

I tried their Tony’s Combo, one of the family combos that offers a large hake fillet, chips and calamari with complimentary tartare sauce and I was blown away by it. Not only did everything taste amazing (without being overly oily or salty) but the portion size is generous and hugely filling.

Contact: +27 (021) 976 2498, tonysfisheries@gmail.com
Website: www.facebook.com
Suburb/area: Durbanville

 

Groot Phesantekraal: Upmarket, yet Wholesome Food and Drinks in a Tranquil Setting

Set slightly out of the way from the main Durbanville Wine Route, Groot Phesantekraal Wines and Restaurant is one of the valley’s hidden gems.

Here, among tranquil garden spaces and cosy indoor tables set within a beautifully restored, former stable, one finds this modern, yet laidback wine farm restaurant.

With a focus on breakfasts and lunches during the week and brunch and pizza over the weekend, this lovely eatery is the perfect place to enjoy excellent, yet still affordable, meals of note.

Picture-perfect Plating and Memorable Meals

Groot Phesantekraal Restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, alongside the tasting room, and with either, the setting is lovely.

More to the point, though, it is their food and drinks and friendly service that leaves a lasting impression.

I have had my fair share of top class meals, yet few have impressed as much as the 200g beef burger (with added bacon and chips), iced coffee latte and incredible walnut-and-date tart that I enjoyed here.

For wine farms and general Cape Town restaurants, their pricing is competitive – but it is definitely worth treating yourself or your loved ones to a hearty meal here.

Contact: +27 (021) 825 0060, restaurant@phesantekraal.co.za

Website: grootphesantekraal.co.za

Suburb/area: Durbanville Wine Valley

The No Ordinary Burger (NOB): Larger-than-life Burgers

What started out as a food truck has quickly become one of the most popular restaurants (primarily takeaway but they have sit-down space too) in the Northern Suburbs.

The No Ordinary Burger, or The NOB as it is more commonly known, specialise in huge – and I mean huge – gourmet burgers.

Their burgers are a feast in and of themselves and they have a wide range of options – everything from Chilli Cheese Burger (don’t try this at home, kids; it’s very, very hot) to the Porker Burger.

Gourmet Burger Beasts

In addition to their monster burgers that are, quite literally, the size of a standard dinner plate, the NOB also sells sides, build-your-own nachos and other tasty eats.

If you are a big eater like me, try a burger with some fries – but if you are a lightweight, stick to just the burger because you will be full and that is a fact.

Overall though, these gourmet burgers – available from their Tyger Falls-based shop or via MrD and UberEats – are incredible and definitely worth their prices, which are a little above average for burgers.

Contact: +27 (084) 477 2434, foodtrendssa@gmail.com

Website: www.facebook.com

Suburb/area: Bellville

 

SCHOON, Majik Forest

To many in the food industry, SCHOON is an institution of note that needs no introduction. If you aren’t familiar with SCHOON – then let me elaborate.

What started as a humble, yet passionate bakery in Stellenbosch – owned and run by power couple Fritz and Chanelle Schoon – has blossomed into a series of café-style stores across the Western Cape.

Most recently, as of December 2021, they opened a branch in the newly upgraded Majik Forest Shopping Centre, near Majik Forest.

So Good Sourdough

This latest SCHOON offering can be enjoyed via their little cafe shop, where a cosy setting has been created.

Alternatively, residents can order for delivery or collection via Mr D or Uber Eats. In 2021, I used Mr D to sample some of the goodies from their extensive menu.

Along with their iconic sourdough breads, they have a wide range of fresh breads, sandwiches, naked juices, rustic pizzas, pastries and hot- or cold-beverages, including decadent CocoaFair hot chocolate and mochas.

Everything is very much about sustainability, supporting local and above all, eating cleanly and with purpose, like their slogan echoes.

Not only am I a huge fan of supporting local – but I also really believe in eating sustainably and organically as far as possible. If you are of the same mind, you will love this new Northern Suburbs gem.

Healthy, Wholesome and Fresh

For my first online order back in late 2021, I tried their iconic Sourdough Loaf (generously portioned and well-priced for R55). As well as a fresh Pain Au Chocolat (R45 and again, well-sized) and delicious Pasteis De Natas (R25).

I am a sucker for sourdough and I adore pastries. So I consider myself a good judge of quality ones – and these were certainly that.

Not only did they arrive in eco-friendly packaging, with the famous blue branding of SCHOON wrapped around them – but they tasted incredible.

Fresh and Fabulous

Both the sourdough and pain au chocolat were amazingly fresh and honestly, far bigger than expected.

The bread was fresh and beautiful, while the pastry was one of the loveliest I have had and a great size.

As for my Portuguese-style dessert, the little pasteis de natas – it is one of the best I have ever had.

Eco-friendly Packaging and Excellent Products

I loved everything I ordered online. I was so impressed by both the quality and the freshness.

My products were all well-priced and excellent in terms of quality and quantity.

However, I must note that some of SCHOON’s breakfast-, dessert- and sandwich-offerings are a bit on the expensive side.

I understand the reasoning behind this. As artisanal organic or sustainable goods are always more time-consuming and costly to produce but I think some folk will baulk at the prices.

All I can say to that is: stick to what you can afford and just know you are enjoying local, high quality offerings either way.

Must-try Magic at Majik Forest

In mid-2023, we finally visited the SCHOON Majik Forest branch and enjoyed a cosy, snug winter brunch.

The food was excellent (their BLT loaded slow-toasted sandwich is to die for), service was friendly and the branch itself is delightful, with thoughtful touches and homely decor.

In closing: SCHOON made clean, sustainable eating popular long before it was trendy. So, if you haven’t tried their products yet, you are missing out.

Contact: +27 (021) 981 6449, info@schoon.co.za

Website: schoon.co.za

Suburb/area: Bellville

 

Evert Opstal Restaurant, Everglen, Durbanville

Housed within an old wine cellar, in a local Cape Dutch landmark that dates back to the late 1600s, Evert Opstal has always been an iconic eatery in the Northern Suburbs.

In recent years, management has changed and since the new owners took over during lockdown, the eatery has grown from strength to strength. They have truly given this grand old Cape Dutch dame a revival second to none!

Reviving a Grand Old Dame

What is striking about Evert Opstal is that, everything from booking online to the setting to the food and service is impeccably tasteful, efficient and smoothly run.

Staff are warm and welcoming, making you feel like regular visitors before you even sit down. Another instantly apparent feeling is the sense of cosy homeliness that the space (both indoors and out) exudes.

It is clear how much thought and care goes into everything from the beautiful, freshly baked bread to the flower wreaths (hanging for sale near the entrance) to the delightfully wholesome, seasonal menus. Everything is carefully thought out and offered to you with care.

Stunning from Start to Finish

When we visited for lunch, even despite loadshedding, we had a flawless experience.

Seated outside in the peaceful courtyard space, which overlooks the distant Stellenbosch mountains and lush, tranquil garden, it was easy to forget that we were still in the heart of Durbanville. Rather, we felt transported to some peaceful countryside oasis.

Indoors, I sense you have the same peaceful experience – just with the added bonus of a cosy fireplace and a touch of heritage while you dine! 🙂

Impossibly Good Menu Options

When eating out, it is rare for me to struggle to settle on what to order; I normally immediately set my sights on a dish. But, with Evert Opstal, I had a really hard time choosing what to order simply because everything sounds (and indeed, looks) amazing!

We visited for lunch, although they also open for breakfast (except on Sundays when they are closed for family time) – and our lunch was incredible.

Dreamy Meals in the Courtyard

I ordered the Boeren Burger (a roosterkoek burger made with 100% beef patty, cured bacon, truffle-infused mushroom sauce and hand-cut fries. (Although I swapped this out for a Greek salad on the day due to loadshedding.)

My meal was absolutely incredible – and it left us both raving. It was generously portioned, fresh and utterly mouthwatering; the perfect lunch, by all accounts.

My partner tried the Bo-Kaap Cape Malay curry (with basmati rice, roti and sambals) and thoroughly enjoyed his meal too.

I sampled a bit of the curry and I have to say, even with my Durban roots and high curry standards, it was perfect and exactly how a good curry should taste.

A Mondvol of Cake

Before our meal, we also enjoyed a beautiful cappuccino (again, perfect). Afterwards, we were hopelessly tempted by a slice of Mondvol cake and opted to share a slice.

On the day, this was a wickedly good chocolate creation, infused with some Italian cream or other and complemented by melt-in-your-mouth honeycomb chunks, crushed biscuit and a cute little flower creation.

I knew Mondvol makes excellent cakes: but wow, this is one of the best slices of cake I have had anywhere!

We will be Back

In addition to their desserts, breakfasts, lunches and hot beverages, Evert also has a great wine menu. It features local favourites from Durbanville Wine Valley and beyond.

Suffice to say, after our seamless first experience at Evert Opstal, we will definitely be back. I have too many dishes I still want to sample!

Eat In, Out or Host a Function

This is one of the best eateries around, in Durbanville and Cape Town at large – and I do not say that lightly. I cannot recommend Evert Opstal Restaurant highly enough! They are well-priced because food, service and setting is definitely generous and of the highest quality.

In addition to their eat out options, Evert Opstal also caters to eating in at home (through grazing boxes and other pre-ordered goodies etc.) and hosts tasteful functions and events.

Contact: +27 (021) 979 7186, info@evertopstal.co.za

Website: evertopstal.co.za

Suburb/area: Durbanville

Shakespeare’s Restaurant, Durbanville

Update: Regrettably, as of March 2023, Shakespeare’s has closed their doors.

Since its unveiling in 2019, I have been dying to visit Shakespeare’s Restaurant. An eatery dedicated to The Bard is beyond tempting – especially to someone who loves all things English literature, writing and of course, fiction!

In terms of ambience, decor and food, this boutique-style restaurant offers a taste of theatrics and style. It is designed to ‘enlighten’ your senses, as you enjoy a mesmerising culinary adventure. In that sense, Shakespeare’s definitely hits the mark.

An Experience of Food and Shakespearean Thrills

With its opulent decor, which includes vintage plush couches and chaise lounges, ornate mirrors, a wall of books and wines and of course, several obvious homages to William Shakespeare himself, this central Durbanville restaurant offers a unique dining experience.

It is fairly pricey (even by Cape Town standards), so be warned. However, you are paying for a dining experience and meal.

Afternoon Tea Fit for a Shakespearean Tale

However, one well-priced option worth pre-booking is their afternoon tea. Priced reasonably per person for two sharing, this afternoon tea includes a wonderful selection of both sweet- and savoury-offerings. You also have a choice of bottomless tea or coffee. (Or both, if you wish to mix things up.)

While the afternoon tea spread is excellent and generous for two sharing, their tea options are sadly lacking. They only have a choice of Earl Grey, Ceylon or rooibos tea.

However, they make up for this with their beautiful, quirky old tea sets and dainty cups and saucers. These give you a true tea experience. Their coffee is also excellent; I loved our cappuccinos. (And I adore that these are also served in a proper set!)

Teatime Treats

In terms of treats and savouries, Shakespeare’s offers four of each.

My favourites were the bruleed lemon tartlet, dark chocolate cremoux, artisan chocolate (which you choose from a vintage trolley, Hogwarts Express-style) and butternut feta and basil quiche.

I have to say that their sweet- and savoury-options are both fresh and well-made. So, in terms of food, Shakespeare’s is quality and pretty faultless.

Friendly Service in Lavish Settings

During our tea experience, our waiters were very friendly and attentive. They made sure we were well looked after and we never felt hurried at any point.

Some Room for Improvement

While service was friendly, I do have some misgivings about the restaurant’s correspondence and admin system. I had mailed queries through and booked and paid weeks in advance. However, on the day, they were still confused about our booking and payment. (Including after we had left the restaurant, which was a bit off-putting.)

To me, all channels of correspondence should be well-managed. This is a must for any top establishment, especially one marketed like Shakespeare’s. In this regard, the restaurant clearly has some room for improvement.

A Unique Durbanville Offering

Overall, Shakespeare’s is a thrilling culinary experience and I can definitely recommend their afternoon tea for two. However, I would just like to see a wider range of tea options and of course, to see slicker correspondence and admin from the restaurant.

Aside from that, though, Shakespeare’s is a wonderful experience. The Bard would be proud…

Contact: +27 (021) 569 0244, info@shakespeares.co.za

Website: www.facebook.com

Suburb/area: Durbanville

 

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