Roast & Co. - The new chick on the block

Roast & Co. is the new brainchild of the team that brought you HQ Restaurant. HQ is famous for their mono menu, specializing in steak, chips and salad. The only option you have is how you would like your steak done. Now hop on over to Roast & Co. A trendy spot set to showcase one of South Africa’s favourite meals, the roast chicken. Not only have they bought you a household favourite with Mzanzi flavour but have sourced the meat from Elgin, which makes it truly free-range and provides the ultimate fresh farm to fork experience in the city. The food is simple, healthy and tasty with classic favourites on the side such as deep-fried mac and cheese. I mean, who could resist that?

If you are looking for Roast & Co. you will find them in the iconic heritage square off Short Market Street in Cape Town CBD.

You can choose to dine inside or sit outside in the beautiful vibey courtyard that overlooks the oldest grapevine in the Southern Hemisphere. Partnering with Warwick wine estate, Stella Artois beer and Tanqueray Gin you are also left with a world-class selection of drinks and cocktails.

It is refreshing to find a spot that focuses on free-range meat. So many places simply have no clue where their meat comes from. If you ask, the manager would probably respond “I get it from the supplier” The question is where does the supplier get it? With 2017 being the year of the Rooster it seems fitting that a restaurant focusing on the perfect roast chicken also focuses on the ethics of its supply. The food is wholesome and inspired by French farming traditions with the perfect South African flare.

The interior is inspired by world-renowned Turkish Architect, Ali Kemali. The space has high-end design and welcoming finishes that create an ideal environment for a meal away from home shared with friends.

You can pop on over Monday to Saturday 12:00 – 00:00 to enjoy all that is on offer at Roast & Co.

The only question left to ask is, Chicken or Beef? 

-Melissa 

Feasting at Reuben's Restaurant and Bar in Franschhoek

I recently visited one of Franschhoek’s newly launched gems that boasts clean lines, chic interior, and food that offers a familiar yet elevated flavour journey that only Reuben Riffel can take you on – meet Reuben’s restaurant and bar, Franschhoek. 

Situated in the heart of the town, this gorgeous space is roughly 40 minutes drive from Cape Town CBD and well worth the trip. Passing gorgeous wine estates and cherry blossoms (at least this time of year) along the way, an added bonus.

The space is ethereal with bright natural light filling the restaurant from the simple bold black center barred windows. The entrance is grand yet understated with a gorgeous marble floor that bounces the light and creates a feeling of space and simplicity. Perfectly chosen artwork gives the space a finishing touch. 
I fell in love with the interiors instantly. 
The restaurant accommodates for long summer lunches outside on the patio or you can make your way inside on a colder day.  There are impeccable design choices at every turn and I must say, even the restrooms impressed me with their unique black basin and gorgeous floral wallpaper. 

The food was described by Reuben as simply “Food I like to eat” with fresh local produce taking front row and center. Each course was a taste explosion and every mouthful was perfect. I couldn’t help but fall in love with every plate, not only for the food but also for the artistry that encompassed every presentation. Simplicity is key and Reuben has taken classical flavours and reimagined them. I enjoyed a glass of crisp Chenin and ended the afternoon off with decadent chocolate fondant and the perfect coffee. 

If you are undecided about the local wines on offer, try the tea and brandy cocktail to start. It will put you in the perfect frame of mind when it comes time to order your pairing partner in crime.

Reuben’s latest offering in Franschhoek, I believe, is not only a result of the natural evolution of his footprint in the valley but an inspired, considered rebirth. 

-Melissa