Scene in the City - Autumn 2022

Celebrating the best of life in Joburg

F O O D & D R I N K | S T Y L E & B E AU T Y | T R AV E L & L E I S U R E

AUTUMN 2022

Cape Town’s chicest waterfront dining at

PIER RESTAURANT

NEW

beauty products

that will change your life

H ide & Seek

Secret, underground dining at The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant

THE MA

CONVENIENCE HAS A NEW NAME… If success had an address, it would be The MARC – where leisure and work come together.

Adding to the Sandton skyline, The MARC boasts two office towers and a double-level retail centre featuring restaurants, cafes, boutiques, beauty salons, a gym and medical suites. An open feel permeates the precinct, as restaurants open up onto the streets, creating a welcoming ambiance.

Our newest tenants include contemporary Pan-African restaurant Saison; handcrafted jewellery store Elegante; and Timber Gold – the home of exotic timber products.

CONTEMPORARY PAN-AFRICAN CUISINE AT SAISON Visit Saison for an elegant yet vibrant dining experience in a luxurious space.

Diners can look forward to dishes such as chicken galantine, baked trout, seafood pasta and even salted peanut butter ice cream. There’s a wide selection of fine wines and refreshing cocktails to be enjoyed, too!

Saison is open Tuesday to Sunday from 12h00 to 02h00.

For reservations, call 072 365 6483

010 001 3881

129 RIVONIA ROAD, SANDOWN, SANDTON

WWW.THEMARC .CO. ZA

NEW D

ENTER THE WORLD OF MAGNIFICENT SIMPLICITY AT ELEGANTE “Like a dream that travels within the portals of radiant insurgency, where imagination is limitless and possibilities are infinite. Every jewel is inspired by the connection of a memory; a memory of love, a special moment that is meant to be kept sacred.” Elegante designs handcrafted jewellery, made personally for you.

From sterling silver bracelets to custom-made wedding rings, they’ll help you bring your jewellery dreams to life.

SAISON

The grilled chicken galantine is stuffed with mushroom duxelles and served with wood-fired chicken jus, roasted portobellini purée, and orange and white sweet potato Pommes Anna.

ARC DPS

DESIGN FROM FOREST TO FURNITURE AT TIMBERGOLD Timber Gold is a family-run business that prides itself on the being the most experienced black-owned company specialising in African exotic timber products. With headquarters based in South Africa and operations in four continents, they’ve got it all – think furniture, cutting boards, live edge slabs, wooden pens and much more.

CONTENTS ON THE COVER

Until the end of June 2022, celebrated South African chef Katlego Mlambo is hosting The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant for the city’s well-heeled.

Flip to page 32 to read more.

STYLE & BEAUTY 8

Turn back the clock with Environ’s new wave of anti-ageing solutions

12 The beauty products we’ll be using all autumn long 18 10 products to make yourself a priority in 2022

FOOD & DRINK

38 12

26 32

Restaurant spotlight: PIER Restaurant Cosy, cultured and curious at The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant

TRAVEL & LEISURE 38 46

Chic stays: Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel 24 hours in … Stellenbosch

MANAGING DIRECTOR Deborah Bailey deborah@hotwiremarketing.co.za

26

4 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

EDITOR Candice May candice@hotwiremarketing.co.za SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Daniela Tsakiris info@graphixdani.co.za For sales queries, contact Deborah Bailey at deborah@hotwiremarketing.co.za

NEW

Intense. Innovative.

Non-Invasive.

EXPERIENCE ENVIRON’S NEW FOCUS-ON FILLER FACIAL TREATMENT Introducing Environ’s New Focus On Filler Treatment, a technologically advanced new facial protocol designed to help smooth the look of facial lines and restore a rejuvenated, plumped youthfulness to the skin’s appearance.

This 30 minute intense treatment is recommended as a non-invasive alternative or complimentary treatment to Dermal Fillers.

Results achieved after 1 month with daily use of Environ vitamin A + 3DSynergé™ Filler Crème supported with two Professional Focus On Filler Treatments.

Set the benchmark of beautiful skin for life.

Find your nearest participating salon here.

focus on the

FULLER EFFECT

Introducing NEW Focus Care Youth+® 3DSynergé™ Filler Crème Pioneered through beautiful science, this advanced powerhouse booster targets the appearance of lines, wrinkles and loss of volume to help you focus on smoother, firmer, naturally fuller-looking skin.

ONE ADVANCED FORMULATION inspired by TWO DERMAL FILLER TECHNIQUES to target the THREE DIMENSIONS OF YOUTH: the past, rejuvenated the present, reborn the future, beautifully resilient

Ask your Environ Skincare Professional for more information.

Click to watch Dr Des Fernandes discuss this revolutionary innovation.

A SPA YOU CAN AFFORD

V

19 ID-

www.lifelux.co.za info@lifelux.co.za

010 594 5393/4

H

SA

EC

K

CO

AFFORDABLE LUXURY

FETY C

+27 (0)10 594 5393

A CALMING, BLUE BOTANICAL CONCENTRATE THAT PROVIDES INSTANT RELIEF FOR DRY, ENVIRONMENTALLY STRESSED OR TROUBLED SKIN.

The Balm is formulated with anti-inflammatory

Infused with antioxidant-rich blue Spirulina and

oils to help skin cope with environmental stress.

restorative Helichrysum, it soothes skin and

The potent, solid oil blend of Marula, Prickly

repairs cellular damage. This multi-purpose beauty

Pear seed and Baobab melts into your skin,

balm is perfect for smoothing out any area in

hydrating and calming redness and irritation.

need of hydrating, nourishing care.

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

days

AUTUMN The beauty products we’ll be using all autumn long

The onset of falling leaves and fading sunset always calls for a rethink of your daily routines. Out with the old, in with the new, as they say – and autumn is prime time for looking after your skin. This season is all about skin-quenching formulas to greet the cooler days and divine-smelling moisturisers to butter yourself up, as well as new launches that deserve face (and hair and body) time. So, grab a pumpkin-spiced latte and check out the must-haves you’ll want on your vanity and inside your makeup bag well beyond the autumnal equinox. Warning: They might induce instant shopping!

12 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

EDITOR’S PICK: WELEDA SKIN FOOD Why: This iconic cream’s thick, buttery formula is truly multifunctional. Now available in South Africa for the first time, Hollywood’s favourite budget moisturiser cossets and comforts the skin just like the softest turtleneck or knit trousers. Its certified natural formula, which has remained unchanged since its initial launch back in 1926, contains wild pansy, sunflower seed oil, chamomile, calendula and rosemary extract, alongside a cocktail of oils. In addition to acting as an all-over moisturiser to deeply nourish, hydrate and soften rough or compromised skin, it doubles as a natural highlighter, cuticle cream and flyaway tamer – just to name a few other uses. Simply put, it’s a directional solution for all your autumn and winter skin woes! We use this cult skincare product religiously all year round – as a base under makeup, a salve on dry patches, a rich mask on flights and as a night cream in the winter months.

If heavy creams aren’t your thing, you might prefer the Light formula. It’s comprised of many of the same super-soothing plants, but unlike the original, it’s slightly less thick and sinks into skin almost instantly.

R350 for 75ml from www.weleda.co.za

OPTIPHI PURE CLEANSING WASH Why: Starting with a fresh canvas is vital. This is a top-rated product in the Optiphi portfolio, and it lives up to its hype. We love the conditioning, pH-balanced formula that racks up on moisture without sacrificing the clean feeling we love and expect from a refreshingly pampering cleanser. It’s soap-free, so rest assured that it’s totally safe to use on your sensitive eye area and doesn’t leave any skin burning or stripped. If you’re not sure which all-star cleanser to get, try this one.

SVR AMPOULE [C] ANTI-OX Why: Brighter skin days right this way! Dull skin will be a thing of the past with regular use of SVR’s strategically formulated vitamin C serum. While most vitamin C products pack a bit of a sting, this one feels instantly soothing and hydrating. That said, the 20% optimised vitamin C formula melts right into the skin, leaving you absolutely glowing. See this as your introduction to an ingredient you’re sure to fall in love with. And for the price, you really can’t go wrong!

R725 from www.absoluteskin.co.za, www.shopfomo.com and www.riekiemedaesthetic.co.za

R840 for 220ml from select salons

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 13

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

PELO BAUM LASH LASH EYELASH ENHANCER Why: If there’s ever a good time to work on lengthening (and thickening) your lashes, autumn is it. Lash serums can be pricey, which is largely why we appreciate this wallet-friendly version. It relies on peptides to deliver plenty of conditioning benefits, while also preventing breaking and brittleness, keeping lashes soft, supple and strong. We’d recommend it for everyone since it does great things not only for lashes but for brows, too … and with minimal irritation at that.

R550 from www.lamelle-health.myshopify.com

DERMALOGICA BIOLUMIN-C GEL MOISTURISER GATINEAU VITAMINA SURACTIVEE HAND CREAM Why: Yes, your hands need just as much love as your face! Believe it or not, the delicate skin on the top of the hands happens to be one of the first areas to show signs of ageing. For this reason, an effective hand cream should be a handbag mainstay. This one is designed to specifically target anti-ageing concerns – a double collagen complex, citric and sorbic acid plus vitamins A, E and F are the dream team to help brighten dark spots and even the complexion.

R295 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za as well as select Woolworths, Truworths and Dis-Chem stores

Why: A gel moisturiser and then some, you’ll want to work the latest addition to Dermalogica’s Biolumin-C series into your regimen ASAP. The supercharged potion will win you over with its texture alone, but inside the lightweight hydrator is a slew of ingredients that reward you for indulging in it twice a day. Skin immediately looks dewy upon application due to its highly stable vitamin C, and to fast-track skin turnover, there’s also phytic acid and pumpkin enzymes.

R1,290 for 50ml from Dermalogica

LAMELLE DERMAHEAL RENEWAL CREAM Why: Even if you’re a total skincare minimalist, you should have a mega-hydrating night cream in your arsenal. We love all of Lamelle’s products, but our holy grail is this comforting cream – a cocooning concoction that works overtime for flawless skin in the AM. It’s satisfyingly rich, yet doesn’t leave a film, and can also be used during the day. We love the way it makes the skin feel firm, plump and unmistakably brighter. The high-end result is well worth the splurge.

R1,140 from www.dermastore.co.za

SOTHYS HYDRA 3HA INTENSIVE HYDRATING SERUM Why: When moisturiser alone just won’t cut it, moisture-boosting elixirs are essential. Make dry skin vanish – and lock in moisture all season long – by layering this milky serum underneath.

Its main ingredient is hyaluronic acid, a hydrating compound that softens skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to make you appear more youthful in just weeks. The serum’s primer-like texture layers beautifully under makeup, too, for an all-day glow up.

R1,195 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za

14 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

KEVIN MURPHY PLUMPING.WASH AND PLUMPING.RINSE

SMUDGE MAKEUP REMOVER OIL Why: Gentle (sensitive skin and eyes are welcome) and budget-friendly – this makeup remover oil is a no-brainer. It effortlessly dissolves eye makeup and lipstick, including the most tenacious makeup like eyeliner and intense matte lipsticks, leaving nothing behind. This remover might be a little greasy to the touch, but it’s for good reason: The solution literally glides across your skin and does the work for you so that you don’t have to tug. Never wake up with smudges again.

Why: Rapunzel-like locks, coming right up! Kevin Murphy’s pinky-peach thickening shampoo and conditioner, specially formulated for fine hair, is a standout. The eco-conscious option delivers a supreme lather as well as successfully thickens ends and gives limp strands a volumising boost.

Rice bran and amino acids leave hair feeling thicker and looking fuller without weighing it down, while ginger root and nettle extract invigorate and gently exfoliate the scalp.

R510 each from www.retailbox.co.za and select salons

R69.99 from Clicks

TIGI BED HEAD SUPERSTAR QUEEN FOR A DAY THICKENING SPRAY Why: Resist the urge to spend autumn in a slicked back bun or messy topknot. If your strands are feeling a little sparse, flat or thin following this summer’s sun-bathing sessions, this volumising spray will pump up the volume. Ideal for fine to medium hair, it’s fabulous for that perfectly tousled, full-sized autumn hair. Work this aerosol spray that smells like berries into towel-dried hair and watch your strands plump up seemingly instantly. Flat hair woes, be gone.

MOROCCANOIL ALL IN ONE LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER Why: In a relationship with your heat tools? This leave-in conditioner is a luxurious treat that makes for the perfect primer before styling.

Equipped with argan oil, pure amino acids, a blend of superfoods and naturally derived sugars, it helps preserve hair health while also giving it a beautiful shine. It’ll smooth, hydrate, nourish and protect your hair for a gorgeous blowout, all in one sweet-smelling product. Like moisturiser, but for your hair. We wouldn’t be without it!

R515 from Splush

R345 from Splush and select salons

PLACECOL ILLUMINÉ ANTI-OXIDANT MIST Why: It’s time to do the dew. This lightweight face mist is our secret for sealing in a dewy glow, whether on bare skin or over foundation. When skin looks grey from too much screen time, a few spritzes will help bring back a healthy bounce … kind of like a shot of espresso. If your foundation needs a pick-me-up, spray some onto a makeup sponge and dab away. It’s completely natural, vegan and cruelty-free, and handy for popping in your handbag.

R380 for 100ml from select salons

ROCHAS GIRL EAU DE PARFUM Why: Florals for spring may not be groundbreaking, but florals for autumn are always refreshing. Consider this warm, welcoming fragrance your new season scent; a floral woody musk with neroli, blackcurrant, pink pepper, orange blossom, jasmine and orchid, warmed and softened by notes like vanilla, sandalwood and cedar to blend into the vibes of a cosier season.

It’s like the most elegant yet cosy cashmere sweater in spray form – a real neck nuzzler!

R899 for 40ml, R1,099 for 60ml or R1,399 for 100ml from Clicks A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 15

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

SELF-CARE

101

10 products to make yourself a priority in 2022 The only resolutions we’re making this year are beauty resolutions. The way you look and feel can set the precedent for the months ahead. Plus, the ritualistic aspect of self-care and wellness helps provide structured self-reflection and moments of mindfulness. So, what better way to start the new year than investing in yourself? These fresh beauty drops – including a detoxifying clay mask, a hydrating body oil and one of the classiest scents to hit your pulse points – will propel your beauty routine into 2022. Repeat after us, “I deserve it.”

18 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

EDITOR’S PICK: REN BIO RETINOID YOUTH CONCENTRATE Traditional retinol is a long-term game-changer for the skin. Not only does it stimulate collagen, it also smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, speeds up the normal exfoliation process and stimulates the internal hyaluronic acid in the skin, keeping skin plump and bouncy. But there’s a natural alternative that’s hot on the heels of the hero ingredient.

Bakuchiol – a buzzy, 100% plant-based retinol alternative that comes from the seeds and leaves of a plant native to Eastern Asia – has exploded in popularity as we seek out gentler (or vegan) products for smoother texture, less hyperpigmentation and restored elasticity. It’s no surprise that clean beauty brand REN is all aboard the bakuchiol train.

This night oil – which is completely safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding – is a gentler option than many retinols on the market, but still packs a strong punch. In the mix are bakuchiol, organic rosehip oil, sea buckthorn oil and many other natural extracts to further help renew skin texture, improve firmness and add back plenty of moisture without causing irritation. The serum-in-oil texture both applies and soaks into skin beautifully (make sure to give it a good shake before using), so you never have to worry about ending up with greasy residue on your pillow. And we’d be remiss not to mention the brand’s sustainability efforts – this product boasts a recyclable glass bottle with a dropper made from post-industrial recycled material. You’ll love this supercharged elixir as much as we do.

R1,075 from www.rencleanskincare.co.za A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 19

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

SVR [B3] HYDRA ESSENCE Looking to achieve ‘honey skin’ status? This power-packed essence is your ticket there. If you’re a skincare 10-stepper, you probably know all about essences – the liquid treatments that efficiently infuse the skin with hydration. They’re used to increase cell turnover as well as to prep, balance, brighten, restore and replenish the skin. The Korean-born skincare category is traditionally applied between the toner and serum step. It might look like a simple bottle of water, but this skin essence is so much more. Slightly thicker in texture than other essences but still great for layering, this formula – with vitamin B3 and two hyaluronic acids with different molecular weights – is exactly what you need. Because it’s packed with a ton of humectants, it draws in moisture and keeps it there. We also love how it fills and plumps fine lines (albeit temporarily, but still) so much that we don’t mind adding another step to our skincare routine.

R282 from www.takealot.com, www.skinmiles.com, www.absoluteskin.co.za, www.shopfomo.com and www.riekiemedaesthetic.co.za

EXUVIANCE PURIFYING CLAY MASQUE Whether you’re looking to indulge in some self-care, get a dull complexion back on track or resolve an excess of late-summer shine – multitasking, mineral-rich clay masks are the way to go.

Upon discovery of this mask that delivers supercharged results, our world was rocked. It’s not just the stellar ingredient listing – the perfect blend of kaolin clay and provitamins A, C and E – but the texture and scent that make it so remarkable. It’s quite fluffy in texture and smells earthy but clean. Just trust us when we say it’s so good: It dramatically purifies the skin, creating a youthfully dewy surface – anyone with an oily T-zone or who uses a lot of makeup may find a saviour in this product. You’ll be glad to have this mask at the ready when your complexion craves a cooling sensation, too. Moreover, it doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight, which is a rare feat for clay masks. Ten minutes with this bad boy will make you feel like a whole new person.

R555 from www.dermastore.co.za

NEOSTRATA GLYCOLIC MICRODERMABRASION POLISH Through all of the double cleansing, face masking and layering of serums, exfoliating is hands down our favourite step in our skincare regimen. Regular exfoliation aids us in removing layers of dead cells and brightens up our complexion – and the even, velvety-smooth skin you’re left with feels pretty good, too. We’re particularly obsessed with NeoStrata’s new, brilliantly effective glycolic acid facial exfoliator. This highly potent formula works wonders with the help of glycolic and lactobionic acids, which target deep in the pores to unclog pores, improve texture and soften dry patches. The finely milled alumina crystal particles scrub away dead cells and allow for a glowing complexion. This product also doubles as a great first introduction to chemical exfoliators for those who wish to expand their skincare horizons.

Introduce it into your routine once a week if your skin is on the dry side, or twice a week if your skin is oily and acne prone.

R1,190 from Skin Renewal, www.dermastore.co.za, www.skinmiles.com and www.skinsmart.co.za 20 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

elf-car

SSCCEENNEE I INN TTHHEE CIT CITYY

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

THE COTTON COMPANY

ZARIF HANDWOVEN ROBE Picture this … a quiet weekend at home surrounded by candlelight. Face mask? Check. A glass of wine on the counter?

Check. The latest Netflix series uploaded and ready to be binged? Double-check. The only thing missing is a robe to help you reach peak cosiness and live out your fanciest hotel dreams. Keep the luxurious feel of The Cotton Company’s signature towels, blankets and throws made from 100% Turkish cotton by investing in their comfier sister. Delicate and gentle on the skin, this chic robe for luxe lounging has wide sleeves, deep pockets and a long belt. It’s a happy medium between barely-there-feeling robes and ultra-plush options.

Prepare to never want to take it off! No longer exclusively reserved for bedtime, if you’re heading on a trip, this kneelength number can double as after-bath wear and a kimono should you run out of vacation ‘fits. Wrap yourself in it 24/7 as a gesture of the self-love you deserve.

R1,180 from www.thecottoncompany.co.za

NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE NEROLI Are you looking for an indulgent investment for those treasured moments of self-care? Recently, we’ve been enriching our routine with NUXE’s new neroli-fragranced dry oil that soothes our body, hair and nails. Harnessing the power of nature, this iconic French oil has been given a green makeover – it’s the first certified organic Huile Prodigieuse made with 100% natural-origin and vegan ingredients. As always, it comes packaged in a beautiful glass bottle worth investing in for its aesthetic value alone. If you thought body oils were only an antidote to dryness, think again. The multipurpose product is brimming with precious organic oils, including plum and sesame, to deliver a powerful hit of nourishment to the skin while improving overall texture, tone and glow. The subtle neroli scent of this oil will follow you throughout your day. Top tip: Apply it as part of an unwinding ritual before bed to reap the rewards of a well-rested night’s sleep.

R595 from www.orleanscosmetics.co.za as well as select Woolworths, Foschini and Truworths stores

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 21

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

MOROCCANOIL BRUMES DU MAROC HAIR & BODY FRAGRANCE Perfume isn’t just for the skin. Moroccanoil’s first-ever fragrance offering, which sits among its hair and body care products, is a lighter, fresher way to experience the brand’s iconic signature scent. The result is a light mist that disperses all over your hair and body. However, it’s more than an unnecessary luxury.

While traditional fragrance formulas tend to be loaded with alcohol that can dehydrate hair, this hair mist has been designed specifically for scenting your mane, so it’s free from any drying ingredients. A couple spritzes imparts that ever-recognisable mix of spicy amber and sweet floral notes, as well as ingredients like moisturising glycerin and nourishing argan oil. The lightness of this hair perfume makes it perfect for everyday – it will leave your hair and body smelling like you spent a day on the Mediterranean Sea. Whilst the notes aren’t overwhelming, it lingers (subtly) for most of the day for extra luxurious strands.

R530 for 100ml from select salons

THE BODY SHOP AVOCADO BODY BUTTER Once regarded as a chore, nowadays the meditative process of massaging in a luxurious body cream is an enjoyable – and effective – ritual. Perhaps we’ve all got a little more time to indulge now, or maybe we’re in search of a beautifully scented cream since it’s summer and more of our bodies are on show. Whatever the reason, The Body Shop can be trusted to create brilliant butters and whip-thick treats that serve as a small tonic for anyone aching for a spa day. The newly relaunched Body Butters (now certified vegan) hydrate without being too heavy and still smell as good as they always did. Promising 96 hours of hydration, 96% natural ingredients including sustainably sourced Hass avocado oil make this a spectacularly enviable thick, dense cream. On the ingredient list lineup: Handcrafted Community Fair Trade shea butter, cocoa butter and Brazil nut oil – each added for their unique properties and sensorial experiences.

R220 from The Body Shop and Clicks

22 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

NIVEA NATURALLY GOOD OIL INFUSED SHOWER GEL - HONEYSUCKLE & ORGANIC OIL More of us shower every day rather than bath, so it’s in our best interests to make our daily showers a spa-like cocoon of calm. First of all, what are you washing with? We like to buy this affordable drugstore gem in bulk to ensure that we never, ever run out (the horror!). Despite the price, it feels just as special as more expensive options, packed with 98% natural ingredients including responsibly sourced organic oil to help your skin retain moisture and softness long after you’re done showering. The unmistakable blend of zesty oils is perfect for post-summer holiday to keep your tan on point and skin hydrated. Plus, the gel-oil formula isn’t suspiciously sudsy, rinses completely cleanly and never leaves a greasy residue. Nivea offers several versions of this product, but we like this one for the equal parts fresh and sweet honeysuckle scent.

We’re serious when we say that it’s the closest thing we have to bottled sunshine.

R61.95 from Clicks and Dis-Chem

JUDITH LEIBER MORE IS MORE! FOR HER Meet the most exciting, beautiful and bonkers innovation in fragrance! Anyone familiar with famed accessories designer Judith Leiber’s over-the-top jewelled clutches won’t be surprised that this fragrance is called “More Is More!”. Her whimsical designs that often took on weird and wonderful shapes (a peacock, an eggplant or a strawberry ice cream cone, say) are favoured by the fashionable and the famous. This elaborate eau de parfum is like drenching yourself in champagne sparkle (think piling into the backseat of an Uber in a jumble of sequins, lipstick and blow-dries, then asking the driver to crank up the music) – and it’s the self-gift you deserve for dealing with 2021.

With three separate scents (a fruity gourmand, citrusy-green zest and creamy floral) and seven possible combinations in one mindblowing package, this gold bottle gadget is the ultimate accessory that can boost our confidence – like a pair of invisible stilettos.

R2,499 from select Foschini storesFoschini and Truworths stores

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 23

Marble Group is once again pushing the boundaries of luxury, and everyone’s invited. Get ready to dress up, show up and break free this Summer as Zioux {pronounced Zoo} which has officially opened its stained-glass, over-the-top doors.

“The world has changed, but people still love to go out and have fun,” explains Gary Kyriacou, founder of The Marble Group. “We see people are looking to escape when they’re out – Zioux is the place for them to let go.”

area and outside seating with intricate detailing.

Playful prints, bespoke artwork designs and textures brings the space to life. It also features one of the best VOID sound systems in the country – with enough tech and volume to satisfy the fussiest DJ, and under the guidance of Operations Director, Dino Constantinou.

George Hunter, the consulting head barman for Marble and Saint, has joined the group full-time to curate the cocktail experience

Located next door to Saint in the MARC Sandton, described as a playground for the adventurous, Zioux is creating a buzz in the heart of Sandton – with the high-energy and playful Saint on one side, and Africa’s largest stock exchange on the other.

The food is not a traditional sit-down offering either.

Instead, a classic retro-revival of nostalgic menu items and small, decadent plates. On certain days of the week, Zioux will also feature extravagant brunches and high teas.

The 400m2 space is a merger of a bar and a restaurant on an international level – a luxurious lounge where guests can indulge in Champagne, cocktails and a menu featuring an extravagant selection of dishes designed to be shared. Each corner and surface have been carefully thought through and pays homage to the 70’s era.

The space is intimate and seductive.

“We cater for a diverse but specific crowd,” explains David Higgs, co-founder of The Marble Group and the artistic mind behind the globally-inspired menu.

“Food has always brought people together, and we’re going back to that, it’s just going to be really opulent and playful.”

“Zioux brings warm authenticity but also decadent detail to life,” explains Interior Designer, Irene Kyriacou. “Everything in the space is custommade and intricate to create an air of comfort and timelessness in the inside-outside space.”

Marble Group has once again partnered with GRID to design the look and feel for Zioux. The centerpiece to Zioux is the onyx marble back-lit bar. It is flanked by booth seating, a raised VIP

“The world has changed, and we’ve entered a new generation of luxury,” Gary explains. “Customers are no longer seeking stiff and uptight environments to feel a sense of luxury. Zioux is a space that boldly brings together luxury through experience, quality and intuitive service. It’s sure to bring out the wild side in everyone.”

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

Outstanding oceanside dining at PIER Restaurant They say first impressions matter, and being welcomed by big windows that frame views of the V&A Waterfront and a charming dinner-jacket-donning gentleman is as good a start to a meal as any. Setting expectations high, the elegant setup doesn’t stop there at PIER Restaurant – and neither does the charismatic service.

26 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

C

ape Town is home to scenic beauty in every corner, but the V&A Waterfront is undeniably some of the best. Fortunately, the La Colombe Group of restaurants now offers a place to perch next to (and directly over) the working harbour, giving us lunch or dinner with a view.

Located on the first floor of the Pierhead Building (above The Waterside Restaurant, the group’s other new restaurant on the lower level), PIER Restaurant features soothing, subdued

FOOD & DRINK

hues and plenty of natural wood to lend a warm touch to the space. With a minimalist aesthetic, the focus is all on the food and the sights, sounds and smells of the ocean. The food from head chef John Norris-Rogers, previously of La Petite Colombe, is what you’d expect – clean, consistent, identifiable and often really fun. His 11-course tasting menu takes inspiration from the range of cultures and cuisine that the La Colombe Group celebrates, with seasonal dishes influenced by the flavours and techniques that have passed through the group’s kitchens over the years. However, even La Colombe devotees will discover new things at this location.

You can, of course, tell a lot about a fine-dining restaurant by its hors d’oeuvre and amuse-bouche. So, when the one-bite appetisers of salmon, horseradish and dill – followed by oysters and caviar poached in MCC – landed, we were excited to get going. The menu changes frequently, but cross your fingers for

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 27

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

the tuna that packs a punch with tiger’s milk and furikake for a crunchy texture, as well as the sweet, plump confit mussels cooked in chorizo oil, served with Black Forest ham and soubise sauce. But it’s the delicate crayfish tortellini – teeming with pork jowl and spiced coconut that doesn’t overwhelm the crayfish meat – that will make you really swoon. After a quick palate cleanser of nitrogen-poached calamansi (a hybrid citrus fruit), the main event comes in the form of grass-fed beef cooked tableside with duck liver, broccoli and smoked short rib jus. Every ingredient is the best – it’s a sophisticated blend of flavours. You’ll keep talking about this truly delicious meal long after leaving.

If you’re feeling adventurous, dishes can be paired with an exemplary wine list. The tasting flight matches a lineup of slightly unexpected drinks with each course. It kicks off with the Graham Beck Ultra Brut 2015, which opens up with a lively bouquet of lemon zest and brioche notes, while the rich, creamy, lemonflavoured De Kleine Wijn Koöp Debutant Semillon 2021 is paired 28 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

FOOD & DRINK

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

FOOD & DRINK

with the bread course of caraway, bone marrow and garlic. Calitzdorp port wine cuts through the richness of the optional cheese selection wonderfully, and the Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2018 finishes the evening off as a sweet accompaniment to the honey, stone fruit and bergamot dessert. Bottle after bottle of fine and rare wines, proudly displayed at every turn, will catch your eye – it’s a nod to the emphasis placed on interesting tipples to come. For those looking to choose their own wines, the wine list is lovingly curated and has plenty from small, organic and low-intervention vineyards, so do explore.

PIER Restaurant is an instant classic – smart cooking in a seductive setting. The one downside is that it’s already so popular that reservations must be made weeks in advance. Get to it – book now, and book to go back at the same time. This one’s going to be another sell-out.

Cost: R1,650 per person for the 11-course Chef’s Experience (R150 supplement for the optional cheese course) and R1,250 per person for the beverage pairing (R75 supplement for the optional cheese course) Pierhead Building (between the NSRI and Life Grand Café), V&A Waterfront, Dock Road, Cape Town 021 879 6328 www.pier.restaurant reservations@pier.restaurant A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 29

Experience DISCOVER THE PIGALLE

BEDFORDVIEW Villiage View Shopping Centre, Van Buuren Road, Bedfordview, 2007 011 450 2242 bedfordview@pigalle.joburg

SANDTON UO9, Michelangelo Towers, Maude Street, Sandton, 2196 011 884 8899 sandton@pigalle.joburg WWW.PIGALLE.JOBURG

SKY-HI RIDE EXHILARATING, GRAVITY DEFYING, BREATH-TAKING DROP REACHING UP TO 100KM PER HOUR Book your RIDER or OBSERVER ticket now on webtickets!

TAKE IT ALL ON HOTEL’S SKY-HI RIDE Bookings are essential - visit www.webtickets.co.za to secure your Sky-Hi Ride ticket for just R200 per person.

Terms and conditions apply.

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

FOOD & DRINK

LET’S

escape Cosy, cultured and curious at The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant Beneath the super-cool Hallmark House Hotel is a basement jazz club.

The spot on Siemert Road in New Doornfontein may look seemingly abandoned, but when diners shuffle down a dark alley and enter a nondescript door, they’ll find an intriguing, unexpectedly charming ‘secret’ Prohibition-style cocktail den. Complete with drinks exuding smoke and small, flavoursome dishes, there’s something about slipping into this underground paradise that feels deliciously in the know. Enough hiding – get ready to seek out The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant.

32 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

FOOD & DRINK

PLEASE NOTE: Diners should arrive at the Hallmark House Hotel, where they’ll then be shown to The Marabi Club through one of its two entrances.

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 33

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

FOOD & DRINK

the night became nurturing homes for marabi – and you’ll find plenty of historical nods in The Marabi Club’s décor. Low lighting, face brick walls, pressed ceiling panels, art-deco furniture and vintage bookstands seal the speakeasy deal. In fact, The Marabi Club ticks all the trademark boxes, with staff wearing braces and bow ties as well as joyfully electric local and visiting international acts on a loop. There’s no hint at the lineup, but expect bona fide musical titans to rub against young hot talents. The sound system is truly worthy of celebration.

T

he words ‘speakeasy-inspired bar’ might make you roll your eyes.

But Joburg’s culture of hidden bars is thriving, and producing some of the City of Gold’s best cocktails. Being shown to The Marabi Club feels like being let in on a secret – in large part because to enter the jazz club, you’ll have to get an employee to open a secret door. Whether you’re a longtime jazz lover or you’re looking for someone to bend your senses sideways, The Marabi Club is the place for tuning into the Joburg jazz club scene. But this is a place for anyone who knows how to have a good time, regardless of their musical leanings. Its love language is bilingual – laughter and quality time.

This discreet spot prides itself on a decidedly sophisticated atmosphere and interiors that conjure the 1920s and 1930s in Joburg, when the memorable Marabi music style was evolving. In the slum yards of Joburg in the wake of the Witwatersrand Gold Rush, shebeens where music played throughout 34 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

Until the end of June 2022, celebrated South African chef Katlego Mlambo – who was once the group sous chef for Luke Dale-Roberts’ awardwinning Cape Town restaurants – is hosting The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant for the city’s well-heeled, which promises unexpected treats by this dynamic young chef. His mysterious sharing plates menu is diverse, but not tiringly or confusingly so (a problem we feel is not unusual at tapas restaurants), covering rich, sumptuous fare crafted using local and seasonal ingredients and – of

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

course – plenty of raw fish. While The Marabi Club’s cocktails are expertly crafted, and many fresh takes on classics abound, the food here is truly standout – it’s daring, inspirational and deliciously hypnotic. The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant is ideal for special occasions or a destination meal in its own right.

Starting with a few appetisers, you’d be remiss to overlook chef Katlego’s rightly famous Thai oysters with nam jim dressing – they’re a great way to get a dinner started!

Follow with the mildly spiced fish tacos – their featherlight, crisp shell loaded with pickled ginger, jalapeños, avocado, passion fruit and perfectly seasoned plump fish – and the deep-fried chicken thigh sliders; steamed idombolo buns topped with Asian slaw and pickled red onion, which have a comfort-food feel. The accompanying sweet and slightly crunchy ‘African Carrot 3.0’ – ras el hanout and duck fatroasted carrot, carrot purée, fermented apple and pickled pineapple – is a perfectly contrasting pairing. Thin-sliced sashimi with tamarind, coconut and pickled jalapeños as well as melt-in-your-mouth wagyu steak with truffle potato ‘noodles’, sous vide egg yolk and D’USSÉ VSOP Cognac bone marrow jus are just as easily a highlight for the evening. A sweet-but-pleasantly-light take on a peaches and cream dessert rounds out the meal nicely.

FOOD & DRINK

flamboyant fun. To imbibe, we recommend the smoked old fashioned and the espresso martini – made with freshly brewed espresso and a dash of coffee liqueur for one smooth sip. For another appropriate photo op, don’t forget to tell secrets in the phone booth and snap away. Chef Katlego has earned his legendary status, and his pop-up restaurant lives up to the hype … and then some. The Marabi Club is truly transporting and highlights the best of a bygone era.

Please note that you’ll need to book in advance to enjoy this rarefied intimacy.

54 Siemert Road, New Doornfontein, Johannesburg 010 591 2879 www.hallmarkhouse.info

While your visit to The Marabi Club Pop-Up Restaurant should, first and foremost, be about the dining experience, make sure you bring your Instagram A-game to the creative bar tucked into a corner of the jazz club. The killer cocktails are Prohibition-strong, combining nostalgia with A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 35

Lively, romantic, cosy – whatever you’re looking for when making lunch or dinner plans, you can have it all at Infinity Restaurant while taking in the natural beauty of Cape Town. Choose from popular internationally inspired dishes, such as a Sous Vide Rolled Pork Neck with Apple ginger gel, honey wine pear, rich cumin nut mole with polenta rounds & almond crumble, as you feel transported to simpler times; a point in space and time that seems infinitely distant, or test your Combining 360-degree mountain and palette on specialties like Beef Brisket sea views with ‘skystronomy’ – the Moroccan spiced braise with smoked concept of gastronomy in the sky, carrot cream, sour leek, poor man’s courtesy of our Olympian chef, Infinity mustard, layered potatoes stack with Restaurant boasts a stylish scene with a horse radish, a powerful flavour punch, smorgasbord of celebratory drinks and paired with a wine from our stellar, wideon-trend dishes made from fresh, topranging wine list. If you fancy something quality ingredients. a bit more extravagant with your meal, there’s also a fabulous selection of French It’s a spot for casual comfort food – champagnes plus some lovely MCCs and think dishes like Smoked Chicken with green vegetables, root vegetables, pickle Proseccos. Adding doses of over-the-top eclecticism, the Afro-chic décor sets the mix and charred pepper, Tikka Chicken mood itself. with Bo-Kaap style curried butternut squash, chimichurri sauce with pickles.

Dining at Infinity Restaurant is a crash course in Africa’s melting pot culture Infinity is also a beacon of breezy and history, vividly retold by dishes indulgence; the perfect space to take that make the most of local seasonal in cosmopolitan views with laid-back food underpinned by bold flavours and Mother City ease where one cocktail international flair. Book in advance to from our superb cocktail list, which avoid disappointment – the 10-seater celebrates all the classics, can quickly Captain’s Table seats 10 and offers the spiral into two or three … or more. Not to be missed is the namesake drink, the best views in the house.

A high-rise restaurant fit for an artful city. This 165-seater, Infinity Restaurant is everything a glamorous escape atop Cape Town should be, complete with panoramic views and an interior playfully themed, afro-chic, according to the tropical wallpaper with exotic birds, mixed textures, animal print dining chairs, chic and shimmering chandeliers as well as splashes of cream, lilac and emerald green.

Infinity Cocktail – shaken with Bacardi, mango, strawberry and curaçao, it’s bursting with the flavours of the tropics.

CONTACT DETAILS 9 Lower Long Street, Cape Town, 8000 021 879 5043 info@infinityrestaurant.capetown WWW.INFINITYRESTAURANT.CAPETOWN

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

38 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

Chic STAYS

Reviewed: Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel In a city where almost everything provides an elegant walk through history, the Mount Nelson, grand and magnificent, fits right in. That’s not to say the ‘Nellie’, Cape Town’s grande dame dating back to 1899, doesn’t stand out.

If anything, its now-iconic pink façade is the most eye-catching in this regal city. With excellent staff, understated opulence and all the perks – its noble hospitality heritage meets guests’ needs and desires.

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 39

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

WHERE TO STAY MOUNT NELSON, A BELMOND HOTEL If 360-degree indulgence is what you’re after, the Mount Nelson is your ideal Cape Town perch. From its prime position below Table Mountain, the historical pink jewel hotel exudes an air of dolce vita-style glamour. The white pillared gate; wide, palm-lined driveway (very Beverly Hills); English country-garden setting; and men in top hats ready to open the doors, carry bags or wish guests a good day combine into a pampered world all its own. We were lucky enough to snag the Rose Cottage, a one-bedroom Garden Cottage Suite, which isn’t entirely representative of a typical hotel stay because of its many perks. Hidden behind balls of box hedge beyond the adults-only pool (there’s also one for families in front of the hotel’s Oasis Bistro), the restored Victorian-era cottage is the most private room of all. Panelled in wood, it’s been given a bit of a contemporary makeover, with a refreshed colour scheme of soft greys, subtle blues and greens. The effect is one of tranquility – every inch of the interior is seriously indulgent. But for all of that grandeur, what most seduces are the intimate touches, from the heavenly bed made up with a feather duvet to the bathroom stacked with Charlotte Rhys minis. Those special perks aside, all of the

40 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

hotel’s 198 guest rooms are classic cocoons with romantic interiors and wonder views. However, the public spaces are what make us want to book this undeniably fabulous hotel for every trip. Walk past the immaculately uniformed doorman into the lobby for old-school afternoon tea in the lounge or drinks on the terrace above the manicured greenery. Whitejacketed waiters serve classic negronis and summery mojitos on the jasmine-scented terrace to the backdrop of a tinkling piano and the sun setting behind the mountain. But heads up for guests – having a room doesn’t guarantee a seat! For breakfast, definitely order a perfectly poured mimosa and the eggs royale topped with buttery smoked salmon and a classic hollandaise sauce. The serenely beautiful pool is the perfect place to work it all off afterwards.

76 Orange Street, Gardens 021 483 1000 www.belmond.com

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 41

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

WHERE TO EAT GRAND PAVILION With laidback vibes, colourful cocktails and sublime views of Sea Point Promenade, Grand Pavilion delivers an extraordinary mix of fun in the sun. At this bright, airy spot on Beach Road, you’ll find some of the city’s best salads, seafood, sushi and steaks, plus excellent vegan dishes. The restaurant’s sidewalk seating area is ideal for a quieter date night, while its lively front patio is perfect for peoplewatching and munching on Parma ham and melon salad, linguine vongole, Mozambican-style prawns or sumac-spiced tofu steak. If you’re unsure where to begin, the staff are incredibly knowledgeable and yet un-stuffy – just what you want. While à la carte dishes are available, we recommend the three-course set menu. In essence, everything is good. The beef carpaccio starter – matured Chalmar 42 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

Beef sirloin served with radish, spring onion, sesame seeds, Japanese mayo and ponzu sauce – is alarmingly simplistic but still shockingly good.

For mains, the fresh line fish lives up to the hype. With a vibrant and complex salsa verde, garlic mashed potato, green beans and rocket, those flavours are electric. The decadence continues with their legendary dark chocolate tart with homemade tonka bean ice cream – a touch of smoked salt really sets off the salted caramel, Valrhona chocolate ganache and Speculoos crumb. The food is artful, inventive and walks the perfect line between comfort flavours and fine dining. When you’re sipping by the sea, there’s always time for one more. So, order an Aperol Spritz and prepare for the hours to slip away while you create sun-tinted ‘wish you were here’ Instagram moments. Not ready to leave by late evening? Make your way to Harry’s Bar – a dim-lit, whimsically decorated bar full of vintage art and chandeliers at the back of the restaurant. The sultry, sophisticated bar has plenty of corners to cosy up with your date.

277 Beach Road, Sea Point 021 206 6360 www.grandpavilion.co.za

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 43

Evergreen Manor & Spa Evergreen Manor & Spa, a member of Cape Country Routes, is located in the historical core of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape.

Built in 1904 Evergreen Manor & Spa invites its guests to experience friendly luxury and warm hospitality in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Evergreen offers gracious living and old-world charm combined with every modern convenience. Its spacious guest rooms are individually decorated with fine period and antique furnishings and comprise 15 en-suite Double and King/Twin Rooms. Ample relaxation space is provided by two lounges, a sun deck next to the swimming pool, and a spacious patio overlooking the garden and pool area.

The intimate Evergreen Spa offers a range of wellness treatments.

An easy four-minute walk brings you to the centre of the town with many excellent restaurants, art galleries, museums and historical buildings. Guests can also enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Stellenbosch Botanical Garden, only a minute away and cycle or walk the scenic mountain paths behind the nearby sporting complex of the university.

Three golf courses and many famous wine estates are only a few minutes’ drive away.

Evergreen – the ideal base to explore magical Stellenbosch and the Winelands.

11 Murray Street, Stellenbosch 021 886 6947 stay@evergreenmanor.co.za www.evergreenmanor.co.za www.capecountryroutes.com

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

46 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

24 HOURS IN...

STELLENBOSCH

Home to countless stunning wineries offering much more than a few tasty tipples, Stellenbosch deserves a closer look as a standalone destination. Known as the City of Oaks, the historic university town is home to some 150 wine farms; is packed with a dizzying variety of superb restaurants; offers visitors plenty of nature and outdoor activities; and features an impressive assortment of art galleries, local crafts shops and boutique stores. If we’ve sold you on adding an extended detour in Stellenbosch to your Cape Town trip, we’ve done some of the more difficult work for you. These are our top picks for a foodie getaway to Stellenbosch.

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 47

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

WHERE TO STAY EVERGREEN MANOR & SPA A WONDERFULLY CHARMING BASE FOR EXPLORING THE WINELANDS

For a trip to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, Evergreen Manor & Spa has it all. In the heart of the quaint town – it’s a stone’s throw from the bustle of downtown Stellenbosch and you’re spoilt for restaurant and sidewalk café options – check. Surrounded by whitewashed Cape Dutch-style houses lining the narrow, oak-shaded streets – check. Beautiful, comfortable, functional bedrooms – they’re equipped with antique furniture, huge beds, Victorian-style bathrooms and thick brocade curtains that block the morning sun – check. The only thing this haven doesn’t have is the Winelands’ surplus of crowds. To stay at Evergreen Manor & Spa, a member of Cape Country Routes, is to step back in time. The small and intimate hotel has every element of an elegant country house – interiors effortlessly blend the spirit of history with modern touches – but manages to never feel stuffy or unapproachable. One of the most spectacular features of the hotel are the quiet gardens. They’re especially beautiful in autumn, when the air is crisper and the trees are turning brilliant shades of bright yellow, orange and red. All rooms – where you’ll experience the sleep of the pure – are easy to navigate and are decorated in the same country-chic style as the common spaces, with upholstered cushy armchairs and the deepest of bathtubs. There’s complimentary plunger coffee and rooibos tea on offer in all rooms, while a full English breakfast that offers fruits, pastries and more is included. Walk out of the front gates and you’ll find yourself on the postcard-pretty streets. For dinner, you can stroll into nearby restaurants that surround the hotel (like The Fat Butcher or Eike by Bertus Basson) or drive a bit farther afield to wine estates with award-winning restaurants. A handful of friendly staff are on hand to provide swift assistance around the clock. And while you’ll certainly be taken care of, you won’t be bothered, which is refreshing.

11 Murray Street, Stellenbosch 021 886 6947 www.evergreenmanor.co.za stay@evergreenmanor.co.za

48 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 49

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

WHERE TO EAT LUNCH VIEWS OF NEVER-ENDING VINEYARDS AT

GUARDIAN PEAK WINERY & GRILL The Stellenbosch Wine Route is jam-packed with delicious places to eat, but even to jaded frequent visitors, Guardian Peak Winery & Grill remains a complete happy surprise. This is quietly one of the best restaurants in the area – and proof that not all great cooking happens in a hushed room with linen tablecloths and waiters in waistcoats. Tucked into the hills below the imposing Helderberg Mountain, the restaurant provides spectacular views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains to go with lunch on the terrace. Floor-to-ceiling windows further enhance the view. But the main event here is the food, of course.

Steak is a specialty, but we suggest kicking off with tasty little morsels of quick-fried salt and pepper squid served with zingy lemon aioli. Strong flavours are everywhere, from chicken breast marinated in harissa paste to roasted aubergine with a warm chickpea and feta salad and tomato ragù. For lunch, we recommend the Chalmar beef fillet with garlic and herb butter, perfectly cooked on the grill and served with a green salad and chips. The Thai fish curry – tender, flaky white fish and seasonal veggies bathed in the most fragrant coconut curry sauce infused with lemongrass and lime – provides a startling gastronomic venture. Don’t skip on pudding either … dark chocolate fondant and hazelnut ice cream or Amarula panna cotta with caramel sauce and honeycomb are dishes we’d order again. Featuring Afrikaans, Cirrus, Donkiesbaai and Stellenbosch Reserve wines, the local wine list is excellent and, delightfully, so are prices. Once pudding is done, there are a series of cosy nooks to settle into with another bottle of our favourite Guardian Peak Sauvignon Blanc. On the nose, expect pungent aromas ranging from ripe tropical fruit to fresh gooseberry. On the palate, it’s light-bodied with racy acidity. The Stellenbosch Reserve Hangbrug Chenin Blanc is a touch sweeter than expected, but stands up beautifully to the bold flavours of the food.

Annandale Road, Stellenbosch 021 881 3899 www.guardianpeak.com 50 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 2

S C E N E I N T H E CIT Y

T R A VE L & L E I S UR E

RELAXED FINE DINING AT ITS SOUTH AFRICAN BEST AT

RUST EN VREDE RESTAURANT The verdant valleys and rolling vineyards make Rust en Vrede Wine Estate a paradise worth exploring. Throw in vistas filled with a vast green lawn surrounded by soft shell-pink, sky blue and pale mauve-lilac hydrangeas, and you have yourself one seriously photogenic destination.

As summer rolls out its sunniest days, there’s nowhere better to be. At Rust en Vrede Restaurant, a wine and culinary gem open for dinner only from Tuesday to Saturday, head chef Fabio Daniel has made a name for himself with his approachable cooking style and sixcourse tasting menu. Arrive at sunset for a well-chilled glass of Perrier-Jouët champagne on the front porch that’s seemingly built on a foundation of flowers. Then, wander up to the glamorous restaurant to dine on dishes that are expertly executed, but not in the least bit pretentious.

Including the amuse-bouche, bread course and tempting treats to pair with after-dinner coffee, you’ll be eating nine manageable courses that change seasonally, with some variations for vegetarians, pescatarians or food allergies.

The main themes of the menu here are light, raw seafood and heartier meat dishes: Fish of the day prepared tataki style is served with radish and silky-smooth whipped avocado, while perfectly pink local beef is paired with cassava and nutty, purple-tinged artichokes. Peas and

bacon complement a standout dish of deep-fried, sunshine-yellow sous vide egg yolk. Desserts, far from an afterthought, highlight chocolate and remarkable local fruit. The artfully arranged ‘Snow White’ dessert – with white chocolate, raspberry and litchi – looks like a little sculpture and tastes like heaven. The service, which runs like a well-oiled machine, is as excellent as the food.

Servers are warm, discreet, efficient and well-versed in the menu and wine-pairing option. One thing’s for sure – a meal at Rust en Vrede Restaurant isn’t easily forgotten. We recommend booking a few weeks ahead to avoid disappointment.

Annandale Road, Stellenbosch 021 881 3881 www.rustenvrede.com

A ut um n 2022 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 51

Breathtakingly beautiful, in the heart of the winelands Offering 180-degree panoramic views of magnificent vineyards and mountains, Banhoek Lodge, situated just outside of Stellenbosch, is the perfect location to relax in the heart of South Africa’s Winelands Region. This beautiful boutique guest house accommodates a maximum off 14 people in its luxury rooms and suites. Here the views are forever, the breakfasts are hearty and the service is warm and personal.

Scene in the City readers qualify for a 10% discount at Banhoek Lodge for bookings made 14 days or more in advance. Contact us directly 074 108 5003 or email us on info@banhoeklodge.co.za.

Offer is subject to availability at time of booking. Block out dates over peak periods apply. T&Cs apply.

BOOK THIS SPECIAL OFFER https://book.nightsbridge.com/18141

https://book.nightsbridge.com/18141

EACH OF OUR HOTELS IS A DREAM REALISED. We want every aspect of your experience within our establishments to be treasured.

Whether you’re dining in one of our decadent restaurants, enjoying a sundowner in one of our cocktail bars, chatting to one of our AI-enabled robots or listening to our automated Grand Piano play a song, Hotel Sky promises an experience like no other.

Hotel Sky Cape Town – 021.879.5040 | Hotel Sky Sandton – 010.880.4449 | WWW.HOTELSKY.CO.ZA

DINNER AND THEATRE

26 FEBRUARY – 30 APRIL LIVE ENTERTAINMENT ECLIPSE RESTAURANT, HOTEL SKY FOR RESERVATIONS:

WWW.ECLIPSERESTAURANT.CO.ZA 010 880 4449

A proudly South African perfume created for modern African Queens.

visit www.haloheritage.com