Scene in the City - Autumn 2021

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 2021

7AUTUMN BEST

PERFUMES

Local-approved weekend

getaways

Joburg’s

Hottest

GASTRONOMIC VENTURES

Medical Suites at The MARC

To book your appointment, go here.

It’s as easy as a click of a button!

129 Rivonia Road, Sandton 010 443 6012 www.marcmedicalsuites.co.za

Medical office space for rent Are you a medical practitioner looking for your next career opportunity? Medical Suites at The MARC offers flexible and affordable medical office rentals in an established precinct in the heart of the financial district. For further information, email info@marcmedicalsuites.co.za.

The recently opened Medical Suites at The MARC offers patients a new dimension of exclusivity and relaxation.

Ideally located in The MARC precinct in Sandton CBD, on the corner of Maude and Rivonia Road, our blend of personal attention and superior amenities provides guests with a refined atmosphere of comfort, privacy and serenity. This is coupled with the services of our highly skilled medical practitioners, who provide the finest in healthcare.

Featuring a real-time online booking platform, Medical Suites at The MARC is committed to enhancing the outstanding medical care provided by our network of doctors in order to ensure an unparalleled experience for our valued guests. Whether you’re in need of a check-up or a COVID-19 test, travel vaccine or gynaecological and obstetric services, our goal is to do everything possible to foster a convenient and comfortable environment.

CONTACT DETAILS 3rd and 6th Avenue, Bredell, Kempton Park 011 541 1300 reception@levelsevenrestaurant.co.za TRADING HOURS Monday to Saturday 12h00 – 12h00 Sundays 12h00 – 16h00 WWW.LEVELSEVENRESTAURANT.CO.ZA

Level Seven Restaurant and Sky Bar Perched at the top of the new Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre near OR Tambo International Airport, Level Seven Restaurant and Sky Bar epitomises quintessential Johannesburg glamour. With an extensive menu of gastronomic indulgences, the cloud-gazing establishment comes complete with an exclusive selection of local and international wines.

The luxurious setting is dressed to thrill with modern, sexy interiors and tables elegantly decked out with white tablecloths fit for fine dining. A prize ticket for romantic date nights, special occasions and business meetings, guests have the option of the beautiful main dining area (which seats 120 people), private dining room (two groups of 12 or 30 people collectively), sky bar (50 people), cigar lounge (40 people) or casual lounge (30 people).

However, it is the tuned-in service and tremendously talented team of people that make the magic happen.

The aim is for each patron to feel a part of this and to see that for the Level Seven team, this is not just a job, but a lifestyle.

The international menu is extensive and offers a variety of accomplished, brilliantly executed dishes.

From vibrant opening bites to hearty main meals, it is guaranteed to jangle and soothe curious palates.

Imaginative dishes include gorgeous beetroot-stained salmon, melt-in-your-mouth coffee-crusted fillet steak, luxurious prawn and scallop risotto as well as tender, sweet baby lobster that is buttery perfection and worth shelling out for.

Like the menu, the wine list offers exceptional variety, allowing discerning drinkers to discover everything from local wines to grapes from far-flung vineyards.

In addition, guests can expect nightly entertainment such as jazz and blues, which makes for the perfect amorous atmosphere.

CONTENTS ON THE COVER The African-chic Eclipse Restaurant is a dinner theatre that’s rolling dinner and a show into one creative (and tasty) package.

Flip to page 8 to read more.

FOOD & DRINK 08 5 gourmand experiences worthy of your bucket list

STYLE & BEAUTY 16 6 products to transition your skin for autumn from Dermastore 18 Beauty essentials you need this season 22 Autumn’s best scents that hit all the right notes

08 22

TRAVEL & LEISURE 28 Our favourite places to stay and eat in Cape Town 40 An ideal weekend getaway in Durban 46 Indulge yourself in luxury with these 3 motoring splurges

MANAGING DIRECTOR Deborah Bailey deborah@hotwiremarketing.co.za

46

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

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

FOOD & DRINK

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

FOOD & DRINK

THE BEST

RESTAURAN

IN JOBURG RIGHT NOW

5 gourmand experiences worthy of your bucket list

When you think of the best things to do in Joburg, eating like royalty is one of the first activities that come to mind. But there’s no denying that Joburg’s dining scene has changed dramatically over the past few months. Restaurants innovated, they pivoted and some even opened – there’s never been a time that the City of Gold needed its restaurants more and, as always, they were there for us. We realise that everyone is moving at a different pace: While some people are excited to dine out, others are sticking to restaurants that deliver for the foreseeable future. But no matter your comfort level, if you love food and live in Joburg, we suggest you check out our must-try list of the best new restaurants Joburg has to offer. Don’t forget to wear a mask, respect social distancing and tip generously!

8 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

FOOD & DRINK

NTS EDITOR’S PICK:

ECLIPSE RESTAURANT Dinner and a show doesn’t have to mean pizza and Netflix. After all, what’s the point of eating out if you’re just looking at your plate? Boring! The African-chic Eclipse Restaurant, located on the fourth floor of the brandnew Hotel Sky in Sandton, is a dinner theatre that’s rolling dinner and a show into one creative (and tasty) package. Sit back in the opulent, overthe-top dining room – with animal print dining chairs, crystal chandeliers that make for a glittering attraction and a myriad of unique accessories to add the final touches – and be transported to settings as diverse as a Russian cabaret and a Tokyo nightclub while gazing at magnificent vistas and having a delicious meal. A destination for its setting alone, with huge windows that look over the glitzy malls and impressive office blocks of Sandton, this might be the most truly immersive dinner theatre experience in the city. As diners tuck into cold starters like oysters that beautifully combine exotic flavours in a bite-sized morsel or salmon tiradito with aji amarillo for a gentle, fruity hint of chilli, beauties suspend from the ceiling, leap through hoops and dance on poles. The full experience includes feasting on the Private School – a wagyu primal cut that’s prepared to highlight its unique flavour, complemented by truffle salt and roots. We also like the indulgent Return of the Mac, which features a cheese sauce loaded with heavy cream and tender chunks of lobster baked together with pasta to gooey perfection. The pièce de résistance is the Deep Forest: Made with dark chocolate mousse, cherry sorbet, mascarpone vanilla whip and Aero chocolate, this dessert is a cut above the rest and will blow your mind. We aren’t doing this place justice, but we also don’t want to spoil the surprises in store for you (and there are many!). Bookings are essential, so book in advance if you fancy something a little more exciting than your typical date night or mundane dinner experience.

150 West Street, Sandton 010 880 0132 www.eclipserestaurant.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | www. s c e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 9

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

COOBS Chef James Diack is passionate about making sustainable eating easy – and delicious – and nowhere is his obsession more evident than at Coobs. After closing down in Parkhurst last year, this paddock-to-plate eatery has since reopened in Parktown North where it enjoys one of the city’s most enviable addresses. The gorgeously appointed restaurant, with a dining room and outside deck that keep the vibe romantic and rustic, is still about as big-ticket as restaurants get – but the intimate and unpretentious mood will make you feel right at home. The menu is contemporary country in style, featuring sustainable produce such as fruit and vegetables as well as wagyu beef from James’ family’s farm, Brightside Farm in Magaliesburg.

So, what’s good? All of it, but for starters, specifically the beef tartare with aioli, quail egg yolk, homemade ketchup and a black pepper lavash, which is a feast for the eyes as well as the belly. James’ skills with pasta dough have garnered him a loyal following, so the goat cheese tortellini is still on the menu for good reason – swimming in a broad bean crème, it comes with good levels of warmth and sharpness plus some texture from the asparagus. Now it’s time to luxuriate in the sweet life for mains. There’s Asian grilled duck breast, burnt citrus glazed pork belly, an organic veg pot pie and the famous wild boar ragu served with homemade pappardelle on the menu. However, our top pick is the plate of risotto dyed heavy metal black with squid ink, one of the city’s most luxe plates of rice. A scattering of crispy calamari and line fish break up this silky suspension, and any sauce left over should be mopped up with light-as-air house bread. Order the banoffee dessert – roasted banana parfait, dulce de leche, hazelnut brittle and Kahlua ice cream – for a perfect finish. Even if you’ve dined at Coobs a dozen times, chef James Diack’s vibrant, visceral cooking keeps you coming back.

19 4th Avenue, Parktown North 010 880 4793

10 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

FOOD & DRINK

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

FOOD & DRINK

PROUD MARY Stimulate your senses and prepare to have your taste buds tickled by the best small and café plates at Proud Mary, the latest project by restaurateurs Gary Hollywood and Warren Murley, previously behind La Boqueria.

Located on the ground floor of The Bank, Rosebank’s latest multipurpose development, this hotspot features a globally-inspired menu, Instagram-ready cocktails and an excellent raw bar stocked with plenty of oysters, salmon sashimi, sea bass ceviche, tuna tartare and marinated octopus. From the building’s modern black brick exterior to the quirky midcentury interiors – we’re talking textures of brass, terrazzo and natural wood with contrasting tones of teal, oxblood and emerald – the clean, elegant space flows seamlessly and has a very New York feel.

The impressive bar does a lot of things fantastically, including cocktails like the Gin Blossom Tea that not only dazzles in presentation, but allows customers to see their drink’s flavours of Sipsmith Gin, cherry blossom and pink tonic birthed before their eyes. The menu spoils both vegetarians and meat lovers for choice: There’s mouthwatering burrata with orange pickled fennel and fresh dill, a soul-soothing coconut red curry with crispy ginger and nut gremolata, must-order sticky pork belly topped with sesame seeds and fresh coriander and a noteworthy wagyu burger on a seeded bun with silky béarnaise sauce and triple fried chips. It also relishes the taste of the sea with delicacies like octopus roasted over an open coal fireplace and al dente crab linguine with fresh herbs, chilli, garlic, white wine and lemon butter. There will undoubtedly be a wait for a table, but put in the time or book in advance and you’ll find yourself seated in an airy space full of stylish diners that will make your afternoon or evening unforgettable. The outside dining area can get loud on busy nights, so ask to be seated inside if you want a quieter experience.

The Bank, 26 Cradock Avenue, Rosebank 010 023 3316 www.proudmary.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 11

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

FOOD & DRINK

WICKLEYS STEAKHOUSE In the buzz of Fourways (especially in Fourways Mall), a serene lunch or dinner spot is truly a special find. Not only is the meat at Wickleys Steakhouse top-notch, with fillet, rib eye, sirloin and T-bone among the most popular cuts – it’s a slick operation and the restaurant just oozes charm. Unlike the usual cave-like, wood-paneled steak joints in Joburg, this thoroughly welcoming grill room feels fresh and elegant with a plant-laden verandah and a main room that’s no less glamorous, done out in brilliant jewel tone colours such as ruby and sapphire. If the menu has a star, it has to be the extraordinary, melt-on-the-tongue rib eye, which has unrivalled sweetness and tenderness, decadently dressed with a silky-smooth Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 and peppercorn sauce. However, the rump and tomahawk also have their story – they’re rich, complex and not easily forgotten – and the sides are equally worthy, particularly the crumbed mushrooms and onion rings. You’ll quickly believe the rumours about this new meat-focused restaurant! Of course, the wines are as spectacular as you’d expect, so great beef and great reds go hand in hand. If you’re feeling a bit girly and want to eat lite, try the perfectly pink peppercrusted ostrich fillets. Aside from the grills, the chef also whips up delicate rainbow rolls (with your choice of salmon or panko prawn), butterflied queen prawns in a luscious lemon butter sauce and Norwegian salmon that’s moist and flaky within with a golden crust. Also make sure you try a starter like the wings tossed in Jack Daniel’s hot sauce, or the ‘firecracker’ prawns in a fresh tomato-based sauce with a splash of ouzo … heavenly beyond words! They’re served alongside specialty cocktails from the Watermelon & Ginger Mojito to the Crisp Cucumber Crush. And the red velvet cake, with a soft ‘velvet’ texture slathered in cream cheese icing, is so fluffy you can definitely fit it in. We promise!

Shop 22-24, Fourways Mall, Corner of William Nicol Drive and Fourways Boulevard, Fourways 011 516 0218 www.wickleyssteakhouse.co.za

12 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

FOOD & DRINK

BLUE ROCK BAR & GRILL Raise a glass to Blue Rock Bar & Grill. With a laidback vibe and memorable cocktails that run the gamut from the sophisticated to the eccentric, this new eatery is making a name for itself among 4th Avenue Parkhurst’s foodie scene.

The space is unfussy but thoughtfully designed, with bartenders swirling libations to the retro soundtrack of R&B from behind a swanky bar. On weekends, don’t be surprised to find the bar crowded with people who are all digging into sharing platters and reaching for their cocktail jugs. Simple but perfectly executed lounge fare is just what you want when the terrific cocktails include complex ingredients and are layered with artisan spirits and flavourful tinctures.

Pretty much anything on the appetisers menu is worth ordering: The golden crumbed mushrooms, jalapeño-heaped nachos, pan-fried squid heads in a lemon butter sauce and jalapeño poppers with a crispy exterior and cream cheese filling. While you decide, order a round of excellent, gin-focused cocktails like the cinnamon-spiced Cape Kiss made with gin, apple, strawberry and cinnamon sticks. We also recommend the sweet, delicious Chichi Blue – made with rum, blue curaçao, pineapple and a dash of coconut milk, it’s sure to give you a taste of the tropics. Be warned: These beautiful, smooth-tasting cocktails are highly potent! If you try one thing on the main menu, make sure it’s the queen prawns with a decadent garlic butter sauce or the thick, richly marbled rib eye that’s dry-aged and then grilled to a deep char.

Other tasty plates include the vegetarian grilled black mushrooms with spinach, feta and rocket as well as the grilled butternut stuffed with creamy spinach and topped with melted mozzarella. For dessert, whoever said it couldn’t be enjoyed by the glass? Kick back with the rose petal-infused Turkish Delite cocktail – vodka, cranberry, rose water and lime – which proves that treats can be just as tasty when in cocktail form.

38 4th Avenue, Parkhurst 082 783 4994 www.blue-rock-bar-and-grill.business.site

A ut um n 2021 | 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

MORNING GLORY CAFÉ We’ve got a crush on blush! Pink is hot right now – not just ice-cream parlour colours like pastel pink, but hot pink and millennial pink. At Morning Glory Café, pink has cast off its sugary fluffiness and been reborn tougher. Who would’ve thought breakfast and interior design would form such a happy marriage? With its dusty pink walls, exposed brick, subway tiles and neon signage flashing ‘rise and grind’, owner and architect Chad Brandon Paul wrote the handbook for Instagrammable coffee shops. This is the new place to be for breakfast on weekends, but it’s worth a stop for a morning fuel-up or a linger over a strong and stiff coffee any day. The killer menu spans everything from Posh Oats with apple crumble, flaked almonds and cinnamon to the Classic Bacon Bun – a toasted roll with farm butter, crispy bacon and greens. Breakfast

14 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

FOOD & DRINK

HOT SPOT

highlights include the delicious, always-fresh espresso drinks with impressive foam work, egg-in-a-hole bagel, cornflake-coated French toast stack and the open toasted croissant topped with two poached eggs, bacon, rocket and hollandaise sauce. For a kinky treat, try the Banana Rama – gently toasted old-fashioned banana bread served with a fluffy espresso cream and cashew nut brittle. They’re open until 13h00 on weekends for those craving breakfast or lunch.

Park Corner, 146 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkwood 064 544 6556 www.morning-glory-cafe.com

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

FOOD & DRINK

OLD SCHOOL

CHEESE BURGER

WHEN YOU DOWNLOAD OUR APP

www.ribsandburgers.com/za

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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

AUTUMN SKINCARE EDIT 6 products to transition your skin for autumn from Dermastore Autumn in the City of Gold is lovely for its beautiful foliage and perfectly crisp temperatures.

But cold weather can cause our skin to be dry, flaky and red faster than you can say ‘knitwear’.

We’re preparing for those cooler days by swapping in some key products from Dermastore, in the form of rich creams and supercharged ingredients. Stay fresh-faced with these six products that will keep your complexion happy, plump and luminous until spring!

MESOESTETIC HYDRACREAM FUSION There’s nothing worse than scrubbing your makeup off at the end of the day to find your face totally parched. Well, winter is coming – and the cooler, drier air in Joburg is already showing its effects on skin. Enter the Mesoestetic Hydracream Fusion, a gentle cream-to-oil cleanser that will give your skin a good old cleanse whilst hydrating and softening. Squalane and probiotic lysate, topped off with a subtly fruity scent, team up for a skin-calming wonder duo that removes end-of-day grime without stripping skin. In short, it’s got no nasties and is a skin-friendly alternative to harsh makeup remover. The slick fluid texture melts away everything from matte lipstick to the three coats of mascara you applied last night … no angry red patches here! While it’s pricey, only a pea-sized amount is needed. Our top tip is to massage it into dry skin at the end of each day and lay over with a hot muslin cloth to open pores.

R976 from www.dermastore.co.za

FEEV HYPER-FORTIFYING BARRIER CREAM

PHFORMULA HYDRA CONCENTRATED CORRECTIVE SERUM Yes, it’s an investment, but it’s a facialist favourite for good reason. The pHformula HYDRA Concentrated Corrective Serum sees hyaluronic acid combined with ferulic acid and vitamin E, so it strengthens the skin barrier while hydrating beneath. It feels incredibly gentle (as all good serums should) and packs a serious skin-boosting punch that hydrates intensely for a smoother canvas. A brilliant choice for a hefty dose of hydration or skin that’s easily thrown out of whack in the colder months, the line-filling formula delivers visible results as well as longer-term hydration benefits. Win, win! To lend instant moisture while calming redness and improving resilience, apply a few drops to still-damp skin after cleansing. Then, seal in the benefits with an occlusive moisturiser that prevents water loss.

Apply every day and we promise you won’t regret the price tag. We’ll take another two bottles of this potent serum, please!

R1290 from www.dermastore.co.za

16 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

Whether it’s seasonal or you’re a year-round sufferer – if your skin is consistently feeling dry, flaky, tight or inflamed, it’s time to switch things up and invest in a moisturiser that will keep skin hydrated for a very long time. Fend off cold-weather dryness and dehydration with the fragrance-free FEEV Hyper-Fortifying Barrier Cream – a potent and effective moisturiser bursting with soothing betulin (a natural ingredient derived from Canadian birch trees), hyaluronic acid and ceramides. It feels like silk gliding across your face, refines overall skin texture and minimises the appearance of dry patches, fine lines and enlarged pores. The perfect match for sensitive skin! The best bit? Despite all of its heavy-duty benefits, the texture is non-greasy, incredibly lightweight and sinks into the skin without any heaviness or residue. We love wearing it alone for a subtle blurring effect, but it also works fabulously as a makeup base.

R700 from www.dermastore.co.za

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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

ZO SKIN HEALTH EXFOLIATING POLISH Exfoliation is the key to a healthy glow. When you don’t have the time for professional microdermabrasion, the ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish is the next best thing. This heavenly formula stands out from the bunch: A mix of vitamins A, C and E plus antioxidants and tea tree oil start the glow process, and then ultra-fine magnesium crystals work to dissolve dead skin, while also buffing away cells physically. The end result has our skin feeling smoother than glass and is enough to tempt us into taking no makeup, no filter #goodskinday selfies. Bonus points for the fact that this buffing cream contains glycerin, a humectant that helps to replenish skin hydration, meaning it can be used on the most sensitive of skins. Don’t forget that when it comes to exfoliation, less is more – so use your face exfoliator only once or twice a week and be sure to apply a moisturiser immediately after.

R1680 from www.dermastore.co.za

HUXLEY CLEANSING WATER There are many reasons why we love micellar water, the skin-cleansing, make-up removing liquids that almost seem like magic. Light and fresh enough to use once or twice every day, the pale aqua green Huxley Cleansing Water is our favourite quick fix and will forever be our postflight go-to. The gentle no-rinse formula is chock full of good-for-your-skin ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, prickly pear seed oil and centella asiatica extract, sparing your complexion any irritation. Perfect for literally every skin type, this deep-cleansing water cleans skin and leaves it with a dewy, glowy finish as well as makes even the toughest waterproof and long-wear makeup do a disappearing act. K-beauty skincare line, Huxley is known for its skin-loving formulas, but it’s the fresh floral-herbal scent that makes this product stand out. Follow with a cream or foaming cleanser for a deeper clean as part of an at-home facial routine.

R400 from www.dermastore.co.za

ISDIN AGE REPAIR FUSION WATER SPF 50 Don’t you dare! Just because the temperatures are beginning to dip and the sun is setting earlier each day doesn’t mean you can skimp on that SPF number or – gasp! – put your sunscreen away. Protecting your skin against UV damage is a year-round commitment – you might just want to choose something a bit more lightweight since you’ll be rotating heavier moisturisers, like the ISDIN Age Repair Fusion Water SPF 50. A soon-to-be cult favourite (take our word for it), this face SPF works really hard to protect your skin from the sun while preventing and reducing the visible signs of ageing. They’re onto a winner! It includes SPF 50 and a blend of peptides, produces zero white cast and works to prolong a youthfullooking complexion. Sold? Sold. Because it’s oil-free, it’s ideal to use as a makeup base, however, we also like to wear it on days when we want to skip foundation but still give our skin a glassy glow.

R600 from www.dermastore.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 17

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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

SKINSULATION STRATEGY Beauty essentials you need this season Hands up whose skin and hair is looking all dewy-fresh and juicy-plump right now? No one.

That’s who. It’s officially the time when our complexions need a little TLC – especially if, like us, you’ve been overindulging in curling up by the fire with a glass of red wine. From cream cleansers and sleeping masks to scalp scrubs and leave-in conditioners, when our skin is lacklustre or our hair is dry and brittle, these are the products we swear by to help get our beauty routines back on track.

EDITOR’S PICK:

KEVIN MURPHY SCALP. SPA SCRUB AND SCALP. SPA WASH Prepare to fall back in love with wash day again with Kevin Murphy’s brandnew SCALP.SPA SCRUB and SCALP.SPA WASH. Designed to clean your hair and calm your scalp, tackling hair issues right from the root, these satisfying scalp heroes score more than just pampering points. If you’re looking for something extra-thorough to gently sweep away impurities from your scalp and hair follicle, the scrub has to be the most satisfying option. Come for the mint green and recyclable packaging, stay for the ethically sourced and eco-certified ingredients as well as the seriously deep clean that this scrub delivers. Dense, grainy and deliciously scented, the gritty bits are actually perlite, a type of volcanic rock (there they go again with the sustainability). Because it’s so effective, we recommend saving this for a once-weekly indulgence. The wash, on the other hand, is key to true shower (or bath) nirvana. Deeply nourishing, this shampoo made with micellar water, celery seed extract, rose water and coconut oil is designed to relieve intensely dry, flaking scalps. It’s so gentle that those with a sensitive scalp will love it for its hydrating and clarifying properties. Plus, it smells like heaven right out of a bottle! In our opinion, your scalp deserves to be treated with at least a fraction of the love you show your complexion (be honest – how many serums and moisturisers are on your shelf?). Not only does a happy scalp lead to healthy hair that behaves well and looks glossy, it also encourages hair to grow at its optimal rate.

R495 and R575 respectively from your nearest Kevin Murphy salon 18 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

EXUVIANCE GENTLE CLEANSING CREME You know that stretch of time in April when it feels like the weather can’t decide if it’s still summer or ready to welcome autumn? That’s the feeling captured by this bountiful blend that lends depth as well as floral femininity, wrapped up in a beautiful curvy bottle with a pop of bright pink in the cap. Sweet and sexy, like floral candy with the smoothest aftertaste, Kate Spade’s latest offering is every bit as glamorous as you’d expect. It meets the skin with notes of wild strawberry, bergamot and citruses, which creates a delicious fruit and floral cocktail.

The scent is later amplified by the bright floral bouquet of freesia and rose, grounded by a sophisticated, autumn-friendly anchor with a base of enticing hints of velvety cashmeran and ambrox. Easy to wear and love, even the cloudiest autumn days feel brighter under a misting of this indulgent future classic that needn’t be reserved solely for warm weather.

R545 from www.dermastore.co.za

SVR SEBIACLEAR MICRO-PEEL Your skincare routine just gained a major player – SVR’s new unclogging, smoothing renewal water. You may not know this, but your pores don’t open or close and you can’t change the size of them.

Rather, your pores can start to appear larger or smaller based on how clogged they are. That’s why this formula is a top choice. The blend of niacinamide and salicylic acid is a gamechanger for eliminating skin imperfections such as blackheads and spots for even the angriest acne-prone skin. Apply it with a cotton pad for a refreshing, instantaneous detox. The result is clean, fresh skin and we’re totally here for it!

R398 from www.absoluteskin.co.za, www.shopfomo.com and www.riekiemedaesthetic.co.za

AQ SKIN SOLUTIONS ACTIVE SERUM We’re obsessed with every AQ Skin Solutions product that we’ve ever tried, but especially this active serum. For those who have no idea where to start when it comes to anti-agers, this unique, technologically advanced serum which uses patented growth factor technology is your new best friend. Boasting a highly concentrated and rejuvenating ingredient list, it’s a serious multitasker that addresses multiple signs of ageing with every application.

After using the serum nightly for a couple of weeks, our frown and smile lines have dramatically faded. It’s an expensive habit, sure, but a little goes a long way.

R2,234 from www.aqskinsolutionssa.com

MARIO BADESCU FACIAL SPRAY WITH ALOE, SAGE AND ORANGE BLOSSOM Face mists have a bit of a reputation as a superfluous step in your skincare routine, but this formula – infused with aloe, sage and orange blossom – has the power to hydrate perennially dry complexions and increase the absorption of (subsequently applied) products. If you’re looking for a lovely basic mist, this one suits everyone – even sensitive types. It’s refreshing, leaves the skin feeling soft and looking healthy, and can be used in any situation – from prepping your skin for makeup to a quick mist on board a flight. It doesn’t hurt that it smells divine too! Pop it in your handbag for spritzing throughout the day.

EAU THERMALE AVÈNE A-OXITIVE SMOOTHING EYE CONTOUR CREAM If you’re enamoured with Avène’s A-Oxitive range, you’re likely to fall equally hard for this new addition to the family. Packed with eye-opening ingredients, this eye cream instantly brightens, masks discolouration and colour-corrects dark circles.

But it’s not just a one-trick pony: With regular use, bags are lighter and fine lines are genuinely plumper, too. The balm-like texture sinks in easily, which makes it ideal if, like us, you don’t like a heavy cream. You won’t believe your eyes (pun intended) once you see the transformative effects – this brilliantly hard-working formula is absolutely worth the hype.

R389 from Clicks, Dis-Chem and www.dermastore.co.za

R299 from www.mariobadescu.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | 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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

NUXE CRÈME FRAÎCHE DE BEAUTÉ CREAM-IN-MIST

MARIO BADESCU HYALURONIC DEW DROPS

For city dwellers, NUXE’s chic new cream-in-mist is an essential. This is high on our list because of how incredibly hydrated your skin will feel after a couple of spritzes. Think of this mist as a spray-on cream: It’s cleverly enriched with sweet almond botanical milk that forms an invisible film over the skin, thereby keeping moisture levels balanced.

You’ll also notice that your skin is less ‘stressed’, and the silky and fine texture makes it a brilliant touch-up mist under and on top of your makeup. Plus, the orange blossom scent makes for ultra-pleasurable misting. Try keeping it on your #WFH desk for moisture top-ups.

As with all of Mario Badescu’s dreamy skincare products, this water-like serum’s formula glides onto the skin easily and absorbs so quickly you’ll forget you’re wearing anything at all. But once you look in the mirror and see smooth, baby-soft skin with a healthy glow, you’ll be easily reminded. Formulated with two molecular weights of sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide, lactic acid and thyme extract, it looks like a tall drink of water for your skin, and that’s exactly it is. We recommend applying three to four drops immediately after misting while your skin is still dewy. Trust us, your face will feel the difference!

R375 from select Woolworths, Foschini and Truworths stores

R525 from www.mariobadescu.co.za

FILORGA OXYGEN-GLOW MASK Our face mask obsession just hit new heights. We’re convinced that anything and everything from Filorga gives us a dewy glow, but this express mask is on another level entirely. When your skin is a looking a bit dull, let this express mask that’s full of hyaluronic acid and L-enzyme give you a glow-over. After letting the velvety-smooth, pearly-pink formula sit on your face for 10 minutes, the tone of your skin will be noticeably more even with a light-catching glow, like you’ve just gotten an expensive facial. This is a seriously indulgent newfound love that we don’t plan on letting go anytime soon.

R610 from www.skinmiles.co.za and www.absoluteskin.co.za

GATINEAU MELATOGENINE FUTUR PLUS MASK Our face mask obsession just hit new heights. We’re convinced that anything and everything from Famous for dramatically lifting and tightening the skin, this is one of the best face masks money can buy that delivers results you can see and feel right away. In just 10 to 15 minutes, it refines the appearance of the face and neck, leaving skin with a more sculpted look and bringing it back to its healthiest state. With continued use, your skin will look and feel firmer and bouncier with a luminous glow. Makeup also looks absolutely flawless after application: We don’t really understand how, but it (temporarily) fills and flattens forehead wrinkles to the point where it looks as if they never existed to begin with.

R940 from select Woolworths, Truworths and Dis-Chem stores

NUXE DETOXIFYING + GLOW INSTA-MASQUE If you’re desperate for a deep cleanse, this mask is the much-needed breath of fresh air that your skin has been craving. Formulated with activated botanical charcoal and rose floral water, it takes your dull skin and transforms it into a radiant, rebalanced complexion. Paint it on (just a thin layer of its refreshing jelly texture is all you need) and wait two minutes in rose-scented bliss while it works to give your skin some nourishment and fight concerns like excess oil and large pores Whether your face is dry, oily, normal or combination, you definitely want this product on your team for purified, smooth skin!

R370 from select Woolworths, Foschini and Truworths stores

20 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

INOAR LISO MÁGICO Brazilian favourite Inoar rarely gets it wrong (the brand’s iconic Sensitine all-in-one shampoo, conditioner and scalp treatment is amazing), and this lightweight, vegan-friendly mist is no exception. Aside from smelling like a dream, it delivers on its promise of softening knots, protecting against high temperatures and rehydrating dry strands from the mid-lengths through to the ends. Jasmine extract and argan oil replenish the hair as well as provide instant moisture and shine – just spray the product throughout your hair and watch your hair flourish. It gets better with every time you use it!

R500 from Sorbet Drybar and select salons

LABEL.M HONEY & OAT SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER Dry hair doesn’t stand a chance against this duo!

Thanks to ingredients like honey, oat extracts, sea algae and sea cabbage, your hair will keep its moisture and any damage will be restored. When lathered up, the ultra-creamy shampoo gives hair a gentle cleanse to bring back shine and elasticity, while the conditioner deeply conditions for glossy, smooth strands. Together, this pair renews sleekness so your hair feels drunk on moisture. With regular use, our hair’s texture felt softer and silkier, and our wash routine felt more like an experience. Who knew your hair could look this good all winter long?

R340 and R350 from Tanaz Hair

MAVALA AQUA PLUS MULTIMOISTURISING SLEEPING MASK

MAVALA SKIN VITALITY SLEEPING MASK “BABY SKIN” RADIANCE

Sleeping masks have become a new beauty staple, so do your skin a favour. This personal favourite inspired by the ‘sleeping packs’ from Korea attacks dehydrated and dull skin head-on with its silky, lightweight formula. Think of it like a nighttime moisturiser on steroids: For dehydrated skin that needs a boost of radiance, this leave-on mask enriched with Swiss mallow flower extract will provide you with both.

You can say goodbye to redness, dry patches and tired-looking skin! A little goes a long way, and patting it into your skin feels as refreshing as splashing cold water on your face in the morning.

Do you wish you could rewind and journey back to simpler times when you actually slept for eight hours? Well, with this energising sleeping mask, you can (sort of). Containing a potent cocktail of active ingredients, such as Swiss apricot extract – high in provitamin A and antioxidant properties – this mask is ideal for helping smooth uneven skin texture while you sleep. Simply apply a generous lay of the non-oily half mask, half cream formula at bedtime and wake up to skin with a dewier, healthier appearance. It’s like giving yourself an expensive mini facial right in the comfort of your own bathroom!

R709 from www.mavala.co.za

R695 from www.mavala.co.za

EAU THERMALE AVÈNE A-OXITIVE SHEET MASK Praise be! Avène’s cult favourite A-Oxitive range now includes a limited-edition sheet mask. Dealing with dull skin right now?

Don’t stress – try this illuminating pro-vitamin mask prior to layering on your favourite face cream. Not only will it cleanse your pores and revitalise your skin with a dewy glow, it will also help the skin to defend itself against oxidative stress and the harmful effects of pollution. The biodegradable mask sits tightly over the face (so no dripping) and comes with all of the necessary antioxidants to give your skin a plump and supple glow. We love it as a post-workout refresher.

R99 from Clicks, Dis-Chem and www.dermastore.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | 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

A FEAST FOR THE

Senses

Autumn’s best scents that hit all the right notes As Joburg days grow a little chillier and crisp Sunday afternoon autumn walks become our new favourite pastime, we’re seeking out deliciously comforting fragrances that wrap us up like a cashmere sweater. We’re moving away from sunny citrus notes and fully towards scents that emulate the best part of the colder seasons – fires, chunky knits and leaves crunching beneath you as you walk around, pumpkin spice latte in hand. No matter if you prefer creamy vanillas or warm leathers, our autumnal edit will make sure you smell heavenly straight through winter.

22 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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:

GIORGIO ARMANI MY WAY Giorgio Armani is taking a sustainable approach to scent with the launch of My Way, an eco-friendly sparkling floral fragrance that reflects the brand’s fiveyear commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by 25% and achieving carbon neutrality for all products by 2025. If you’re in the mood for something light and fresh, this classically feminine perfume, presented in a sleek flacon fabricated with recycled and recyclable materials, is here to fulfill your wishes. Like a sweet kiss on the forehead, the pink-tinted juice composed of sustainably sourced ingredients is an intoxicating and dreamy mix of white flowers like jasmine and tuberose, orange blossom and vanilla. As it takes you on an olfactive journey through a blossoming garden with a juicy splash of fruits, it will make your heart flutter!

Plus, we love that the contrasting pink and navy bottle with rose gold detail is refillable. Further details to be released soon.

R1,240 for 30ml, R1,700 for 50ml, R2,320 for 90ml or R3,080 for 150ml from select Woolworths, Edgars, Foschini and Truworths stores A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 23

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

1

CHANEL LE LION DE CHANEL

Seduction takes centre stage with Le Lion, a nod to deeply superstitious Gabrielle Chanel’s zodiac sign, the lion – an emblem of strength and wisdom. Just like so many elements of autumn, this unisex fragrance is somehow both powerful yet comforting, and it smells just as delicious on you as it does on your husband, wife, sister, brother, mom … you name it. If you naturally gravitate towards woodsy, aromatic scents but want something deeper and more complex for the colder months, you’ll love this masterful amber fragrance that articulates beautifully against other scents. With a twist of bergamot and lemon in the opening and a deeply cosy vanilla and musk base, a little goes a long way – this fragrance that will last you all day with just a spritz. Captivating from beginning to end, it’s perfect for newcomers to the fragrance territory, but an experienced connoisseur would love it just the same.

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

2

LOUIS VUITTON ÉTOILE FILANTE

We wouldn’t blame you if you purchased Étoile Filante just for the bottle alone. It’s a work of art, just like the warm and creamy scent inside.

This new fragrance from Louis Vuitton, centred around the Osmanthus flower with its naturally fruity nuances of peach and cassis, was inspired by the flora of the Far East. Made from a unique and comforting blend of sun-ripened strawberries balanced by Grasse jasmine and magnolia, we wouldn’t necessarily categorise this as an autumn staple because it’s perfect for taking you from autumn all the way to spring.

After the initial notes settle down, it finishes off with white musk that graces the skin with delicate lustre. This fragrance is a complete scent explosion within a bottle; far from what the notes suggest and something that you can’t anticipate. It sits at the perfect intersection of fruity and floral yet light and airy, and reigns supreme in our fragrance collection.

R4,000 from Louis Vuitton

3

KATE SPADE NEW YORK

You know that stretch of time in April when it feels like the weather can’t decide if it’s still summer or ready to welcome autumn? That’s the feeling captured by this bountiful blend that lends depth as well as floral femininity, wrapped up in a beautiful curvy bottle with a pop of bright pink in the cap. Sweet and sexy, like floral candy with the smoothest aftertaste, Kate Spade’s latest offering is every bit as glamorous as you’d expect. It meets the skin with notes of wild strawberry, bergamot and citruses, which creates a delicious fruit and floral cocktail. The scent is later amplified by the bright floral bouquet of freesia and rose, grounded by a sophisticated, autumn-friendly anchor with a base of enticing hints of velvety cashmeran and ambrox. Easy to wear and love, even the cloudiest autumn days feel brighter under a misting of this indulgent future classic that needn’t be reserved solely for warm weather.

R899 for 40ml, R1,099 for 60ml or R1,399 for 100ml from Edgars, Foschini and Truworths

R3,590 for 75ml or R6,560 for 200ml from Chanel counters in select Woolworths and Edgars stores

1 24 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

2

3

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

S T Y L E & B E A UT Y

4

BERDOUES COLLECTION GRANDS CRUS PÉNG LÁI This is the perfume to buy, wear and Instagram this autumn. After all, if you don’t post an artfully composed #shelfie, did you even buy a new perfume? When you open the Berdoues Collection Grands Crus Péng Lái package, you’re greeted by an exquisite bottle design that represents the flower-covered mountain on the mythical island of Peng Lai – a clear indicator of the fragrance’s soft and delicate oriental notes that are built around the most delightful scent of all, the Chinese Osmanthus.

This fragrance opens with mandarin orange, bergamot and lemon notes that evoke mystery, exoticism and sensuality, but quickly dries down to a tonka bean and white musk scent.

Over time, aromas of peach, rose, orange blossom and benzoin slowly unfold. Like a warm hug, but still bright and fun, it’s the ultimate everyday perfume that will render the rest of your collection redundant … and less alluring.

R1,595 for 100ml from select Foschini and Truworths stores

5

ARIANA GRANDE SWEET LIKE CANDY Fragrance has the power to lift the spirits, and right now we could all do with a moodboosting scent. As the name suggests, Sweet Like Candy smells … well, sweet like candy.

A luscious burst of sugar-frosted blackberry and juicy Italian bergamot with velvety layers of crème de cassis, fluffy marshmallow and vanilla, to be exact. Inspired by Ariana Grande’s seductively sweet, fun and sexy personality, this olfactory dessert is perfect for casual days of frivolous, girly fun. Although this perfume comes in a pretty, matte light pink bottle with a fluffy pom-pom, don’t take it lightly – powdery but unmistakably sweet, this head-turner will have you smelling deliciously distinct in the crowd. Notes of jasmine sambac, frangipani and honeysuckle add extra sweetness to the candied fragrance, while a base of cashmere woods helps balance the sweetness and makes it surprisingly very wearable. Yum! R999 for 100ml from Clicks, Dis-Chem and Truworths

6

ELIZABETH ARDEN GREEN TEA PEAR BLOSSOM

The perfect transitional fragrance is here! If you love notes of green tea and know how they thrive in an autumn scent, prepare to adore Elizabeth Arden’s light and refreshing Green Tea Pear Blossom eau de toilette.

Fruity-meets-floral has never felt so sophisticated: The pear blossom, jasmine sambac and mate middle notes are even more uplifted by pear, Sicilian lemon and bergamot top notes, with a base of musk, moss and amber that stays subtly delectable throughout the day. Although this can’tget-enough-whiffs blend is invitingly bright and starts off smelling like the last days of summer, it eventually dries down to a luscious, dewy scent. It has a balance that’s wearable all year round and lets you hold onto summer a little longer – not to mention invigorates your senses and lightens up your mood. Bonus: The blossom-bedecked green bottle works as an evergreen bouquet on your dresser or vanity.

R480 for 100ml from Woolworths, Edgars and Foschini

4

5

6

A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 25

skin behaves as if it were 10 years younger*

*In vitro Test. **Vegan formula without ingredients or derivatives of animal origin.

new

Call Orleans Cosmetics on (021) 701 2900 for your nearest stockist, or to become a stockist.

Available at selected Foschini and Truworths stores

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

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

Fashionable FOOD Our favourite places to stay and eat in Cape Town

Deciding where to stay and eat in Cape Town is as hard, if not more, as choosing the perfect gift, where to go on your next holiday or which new pieces to splurge on for the season. Overwhelming? Yes. Doable? Absolutely! With endless options – literally – a little knowledge and direction is a must. So, here’s our editor’s tried-and-tested guide to her favourite spots in her hometown, including a smart city inn overlooking the vibrant V&A Waterfront and a cutting-edge Japanese-style fine dining restaurant where every course is a taste explosion and leaves you wanting more.

28 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

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

sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 29 A ut um n 2021 | www. sce

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 STAY EDITOR’S PICK:

THE ONYX APARTMENT HOTEL Best for: City slickers, lovers of good times and fans of fine food and drink Curving around Heerengracht Street, The Onyx Apartment Hotel has an unbeatable location, directly across from the Cape Town International Convention Centre and beside Cape Town’s oldest thoroughfare. The sleek architecture camouflages well against its inner-city surrounds and is refreshingly low-rise for a luxury hotel. Once inside, the smart studios and cool condos set the scene. We recommend booking one of the dramatic, elegant one- or two-bedroom apartments – between the view and the décor, you’ll love waking up here. With a playful approach to contemporary design, these lavish apartments turn heads and make a strong case for monochromatic colour schemes – think a refined black-and-white feel with unique décor, surfaces in a range of textures and clean lines that are equal parts modern and cosy. While the bedrooms are relaxed in character, they’re perfectly clean in design. Craving some deep, restorative sleep? The temperature-controlled rooms have you covered with sensuous 300-thread-count linen to help you nod off. In the spacious bathrooms, a deep tub, plush bathrobes and Ben Sherman products infused with botanical extracts up the luxe factor. The room service menu,

30 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

from the downstairs foodie favourite MRKT, doesn’t mess around. Gone are the days of boring continental breakfasts – instead, they say “good morning” with berry muesli bowls, generously-filled breakfast wraps, coconut and passionfruit smoothie bowls and French toast topped with almond butter and crispy bacon. If your only breakfast requirement is a caffeine jolt, you can get your fix whether your order is a soy latte or flat white. Supper is at YU Asian Tapas & Bar, inspired by the cosiness of a traditional Japanese kitchen or dining room. There’s a lot to love about this Asian fusion eatery: For starters, it has the relaxed vibe of a bistro, but the stylings of a modern restaurant – the ideal setting for sublime food made from premium ingredients. Easy on the eye and ambitiously out-there in terms of flavours, our top picks on the menu are the hoisin calamari; soft-shell crab; Asian mushroom dim sum; perfect, fluffy beef short rib bao with chilli, garlic and oyster sauce; and the spicy California rolls topped with popcorn shrimps, spicy mayo and tamarind.

Bookings are essential!

57 Heerengracht Street, Cape Town 021 205 6699 www.newmarkhotels.com

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 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 31

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

DOCK HOUSE BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA Best for: Quality-seekers with the resources to pay for the best Tranquil and refined, Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa knows how to cosset customers, beginning by immediately greeting guests with valets and bellmen, giving fast and attentive service. Charming, with the feeling of a country getaway – even though it’s a stone’s throw away from the V&A Waterfront, with excellent shopping, dining and entertainment options all within strolling distance – this hotel is fabulous for special occasions and staycations. It aims to please with elegant (not flashy) rooms and public spaces.

Yes, there are crystal chandeliers and acres of marble, but orchids, an intimate dining room and a serene pool scene soften the space. Inside the Luxury Suites, all done in creamy beiges and whites, it’s even better.

Serene and luxurious; glamorous without being grandiose – the guest rooms have wood floors, gilt mirrors, shimmering chandeliers as well as quirky features like plum furnishings in the bathrooms, against a soothing palette of various shades of white and grey. Three of the five rooms are blessed with balconies overlooking Table Bay, and it’s worth asking for one of these when booking. There’s also the small but lovely Sanctuary Signature Spa – offering aromatherapy massages, QMS Medicosmetics facials, full-body salt scrubs and detox wraps – and, crucially, very good toasted sandwiches on the room-service menu for those evenings when you find yourself returning from lunch at 21h00. Breakfasts of fruit, cereal and hollandaise-drenched poached eggs are served in a sunny corner of the terrace, where in the evening guests inevitably converge for a gin and tonic.

Cape Town’s sea air works up one’s appetite like nowhere else, so after sundowners, slip downstairs to Ginja, where you can expect panko-crumbed prawns, smoked tuna and whole baked fish.

Portswood Close, Portswood Ridge, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront 021 421 9334 www.newmarkhotels.com

32 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

HIPPO BOUTIQUE HOTEL Best for: Tremendous value and a great base for exploring You don’t need the deepest pockets to find the most deeply stylish pads. Up in Gardens, a hilly neighbourhood of steeply winding roads, apartment blocks and bobbing bougainvillea, there’s a hotspot on the block. Around a minute’s walk from iconic Kloof Street, and less than five minutes from Cape Town CBD, Hippo Boutique Hotel (a member of Cape Country Routes) is at the centre of it all. Restaurants and bars crowd the road, generating an intense atmosphere, but push through the glass door and step inside a supremely soothing haven that diffuses the action from the street for an immediate sensory shift.

The hotel’s fresh style and affordability has grabbed the attention of a steady stream of solo and young travellers.

With its quirky, contemporary rooms and suites, dressed with eye-popping murals and a blast of urban aesthetic, a stay here might just unleash the inner artist (or even child) in you. For the full experience, book one of the

double-volume lofts, such as the Red Bull, Mini Cooper or Vida e Caffè suite, and you’ll be surprised at how intimate your stay is. Despite the zingy streaks of colour and eclectic objects, they’re not kitsch: Neutral walls allow the artworks to sing and the bathrooms are sparkling white. Plus, the beds are so comfortable you’ll want to order one for your own home! The lack of an in-house restaurant nudges the shy and tired towards The Fat Cactus next door, where jugs of frozen margaritas and a Tex-Mex-leaning menu makes it hard to resist. Also on the same road is Thali, which will transport you to the fragrant streets of Delhi and has a please-all menu of regional Indian dishes ranging from spinach bhaji with herb dressing and date and tamarind chutney to fried fish tacos and chicken curry. Afterwards, linger late into the night with an exquisitely tart martini at Asoka just up Kloof Street.

5-9 Park Road, Gardens 021 423 2500 www.hippoboutique.co.za A ut um n 2021 | 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

WHERE TO EAT FYN RESTAURANT Best for: Wow-inducing dishes featuring unique ingredients you’ve never tried before Downtown, the swank FYN Restaurant is high-concept and high-priced, but it’s worth it for the luxe interpretation of Japanese specialties. In fact, to aficionados of Japanese fare and serious food lovers, it’s a priceless experience. An open kitchen, polished green marble tops, hand-charred ash wood, soft leather, moody lighting and a hanging installation inspired by the soroban (a Japanese abacus) set the stage for the standout multi-course menu. There are elegant nooks, but if you’d like your kaiseki with a side of theatrics, we suggest booking seats at the kitchen counter. Seeing the masterful chefs at work is a beautiful sight – the way they slice through each piece of glistening fish with exacting precise. Things kick off with a bento box consisting of daikon maki, prawn gyoza, blonde miso soup and tebasaki, served with slightly sweet sake. Ostrich egg chawanmushi with shiitake mushrooms and truffle shoy tastes of earthiness, while another dish – sashimi of local fish – shines brightly with 34 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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 West Coast seaweed salad. Organic tomatoes from Meuse Farm in Hout Bay drizzled with refreshing, citrusy shiso ponzu and topped with koji oil and tofu cream echo chef Peter Tempelhoff’s passion for sustainability. The bread course – a black binchotan (Japanese charcoal) Hokkaido milk bun with chicken liver crémeux was one of our personal favourites, as was the exquisitely delicate chokka swimming with Adam’s figs and sweet Thai basil in ramen broth and ink and garlic sauce. Served with rice and burdock root, ferments and pickles, the two main course options – free-range beef fillet or binchotan grilled sustainable fish – both showcase artful compositions of incredibly tasty food marked with South African verve. The caramelised yoghurt and yuzu pear-topped Japanese cheesecake served alongside intriguing black sesame ice cream and Tokyo banana sponge cake is the perfect finish: Slightly sweet, with a hint of savoury.

5th Floor, Speakers Corner, 37 Parliament Street, Cape Town 021 286 2733 www.fynrestaurant.com

A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 35

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

SALSIFY AT THE ROUNDHOUSE Best for: A four-course extravaganza that’s all about local and seasonal sourcing A contemporary, art deco-inspired space within the context of The Roundhouse heritage building that’s steeped in history, Salsify at The Roundhouse excels at seasonal fine dining with a modern twist. We recommend settling in for the four-course menu paired with boutique wines in the Sea Room – an airy dining room with reupholstered antique chairs in colonial blue, red, mustard and olivegreen velvets, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The menu changes often, however, our recent meal included confit tuna belly, pan-roasted kabeljou, cured lamb rib and loin, and whipped orange cheesecake. The simple confit tuna belly, drizzled with opal basil dressing and served with heirloom tomatoes and beer crackers, is a testament to how clean and fresh executive chef Ryan Cole’s flavours are. For the second course, try the pan-roasted kabeljou with smoked snoek and apricot as well as potato and curry leaf emulsion, which shows off the menu’s local influences.

Or, the slow-cooked pork belly with glazed chestnuts, red cabbage and Szechuan crackling for something a bit more indulgent. We also loved some of the simpler dishes, like the kapokbos cured lamb rib and loin with toasted Parmesan and garlic and a pine nut and sultana dressing.

Dessert is to-die-for, particularly the outstanding, smoothas-velvet whipped orange cheesecake plus a burnt white chocolate macaroon and litchi sorbet with toasted coconut.

If you’re visiting for dinner on a warm evening, it’s well worth pausing on the velvet couches overlooking the lawns first for one of the master mixologist’s craft cocktails, such as a pineapple and tonka margarita. The wine list doesn’t disappoint either – boutique labels share space with local favourites and prices are fair. What’s more, service from the friendly staff – dressed in preppy button-downs – is efficient and utterly charming. Timing is spot on and everyone knows the details and intricacies of the menu.

The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay 021 010 6444 www.salsify.co.za

36 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 37

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

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

PROTÉGÉ Best for: The kind of fantasy long lunches we all need in our lives in the gourmet capital Franschhoek boasts many hotels with superb dining.

One of the best is the beautifully appointed Protégé at Le Quartier Français, where head chef Jess van Dyk pulls out all the stops. This casual fine-dining restaurant under the guidance of La Colombe Restaurant’s Scot Kirton aims to deliver the chef’s haute cooking with more affordable prices. Yet ‘casual’ here still means cushioned chairs, exquisite glassware, an open kitchen to see the full theatrics and touches of wood, cream, green and gold.

Weather permitting, lunch is served on a spectacular terrace with far-reaching views of the garden and mountain. The service is notably warm and the dishes are refined but sumptuous – springbok tartare with mushroom, black pepper, salsa verde and spiced crackers; zingy steamed mussels in a lip-smacking spicy Thai broth with toasted sourdough. The best thing about Protégé is that you can try as many tapas-style style dishes as you want, and always order more. To get the most of the flavours, we suggest ordering a range of dishes to share.

Among the signature dishes: The buttery and delicious umami oysters; gently seared gamefish tataki with coconut,

38 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

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

shallot sambal and crispy leeks; delightfully rich wagyu potstickers filled with flavours of peanut, Szechuan, daikon and smoked bone broth; and a magically light roti enveloping a slab of sticky pork and miso aubergine oozing with chipotle mayo. Just don’t miss the Korean fried chicken served with a luscious coriander-infused whipped buttermilk for a thrilling kick. For dessert, the silky textured baked cheesecake with coconut, raspberry and lime leaf leaves and indelible impression, as does the rich salted chocolate mousse artfully plated with cocoa nibs and passionfruit. This is the kind of avant-garde food that provokes involuntary gasps when it’s placed before diners. Each plate pairs perfectly with wine and MCC from the Franschhoek-focused wine list.

18 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek 021 224 0801 www.protegerestaurant.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | 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

40 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

GET OUT OF THE

City

An ideal weekend getaway in Durban The one-part beach town, one-part bustling urban hub of Durban is generally overlooked by local travellers who tend to focus on South Africa’s safari-and-wine circuits, but we can’t understand why. Sure, you can check out the best restaurants in Joburg, but this seaside city is awash (pun intended!) in stylish restaurants and bars, both classic and of-the-moment. Consider this your must-read while cruising down the N3 for everything a dreamy escape that’s close enough for comfort is made of.

sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 41 A ut um n 2021 | www. sce

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 STAY HILTON GARDEN INN UMHLANGA ARCH

For such a fabulous place, Durban is actually lacking in the amazing-hotels department, which is why we breathed a sigh of relief when South Africa’s first Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch, recently opened its doors. Located within the business hub of the mixeduse Umhlanga Arch, only 20 minutes from King Shaka International Airport, opt for this sleek four-star hotel for a bit of modern polish overlooking the streets of Umhlanga.

While the exterior lacks the charm of some of the area’s more historic options, the interior oozes international flair (someone thought out the clean lines, uncluttered layout and ample counter space in the rooms). All 203 of the refreshingly crisp and clean rooms have a comfortable bed, flat-screen TV, large desk with adjustable lighting and an ergonomic chair, shower and mini refrigerator. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, you’ll feel the room is well-outfitted for your needs. Planning a day by the pool?

There’s an outdoor heated pool with a full-service bar. For breakfast, lunch and dinner, Together & Co restaurant serves a buffet or sharing plates. Let’s not forget the lounge, 24-hour fitness centre or self-service laundry room.

The property is also close to some of the best shopping and restaurants in Durban. If you like a good party and don’t mind a few housekeeping hiccups, this is the spot for you. It may sound like a bit much, but when it’s 01h00, you’re at The Baron or Back Yard rooftop bar and your hotel is just a few steps away, you’ll thank yourself for booking here. Depending on the season, prices can be very reasonable too.

1 Ncondo Place, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga 031 007 0775 www.hilton.com

42 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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 Tip: Choose restaurants wisely A great way to see Durban is to plan your must-have meals first. Then, work your way backward, filling in hitting the beach, shopping at Gateway Theatre of Shopping, going for a stroll on the Golden Mile, exploring the Indian District and sites to see between bites. Here’s where to dine in summery style.

sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 43 A ut um n 2021 | www. sce

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

THE OCEAN TERRACE With its mirrored walls, sweeping spiral staircase, black-andwhite checkered terrazzo floors and lush tropical gardens brimming with bright hibiscus flowers, The Oyster Box hotel, located on the Umhlanga beachfront overlooking the Indian Ocean, is like stepping into another era. Go for the scene, stay for the food and drinks. Fashion and style are generously served at The Ocean Terrace, the red-and-white striped indoor-outdoor restaurant which sits adjacent to the iconic Umhlanga lighthouse. Lavishing loving attention on its pristine plates of raw and cooked seafood, this dignified Durban spot gets our vote! The menu oscillates between shellfish and raw crustaceans: Beautifully locally picked oysters served with mignonette and an American cocktail sauce, as well as ultrasophisticated recipes such as a platter of line fish, mussels and prawns in a super-luscious chardonnay cream. It’s hard to go wrong on a menu devoted to seafood and grills, but we recommend starting with the rich and decadent flamed oysters glistening with garlic butter and Parmesan. Or, let yourself be tempted by the sushi menu, which showcases artful presentation and inventive flavour combinations. The sea’s bounty is on full display on the main menu – think crumbed calamari, salmon and line fish cakes, prawns, langoustines, kingklip on the bone and West Coast sole. But the real crowdpleaser is the baby crayfish, expertly cooked with a spritz of lemon and a generous dollop of butter. The creative side dish of pea and dill rice rewards diners with a playful palate.

Don’t miss out on the excellent cocktails either – the signature Umhlanga Schling made with cane spirit and cane sugar will defeat even the hottest, most humid summer evening.

The Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga 031 514 5000 www.oysterboxhotel.com

44 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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

9TH AVENUE WATERSIDE Nothing takes a fancy meal to the next level like views out over Durban Harbour. You know you’ve reached peak Durban when you’re sipping a lime, lemonade and fresh mint mojito over a beautiful lunch at 9th Avenue Waterside, where outside the windows is the big blue. It’s a bit of a scramble for tables here, so book in advance and lock one down on the outside deck for some of the best views in the city. With its minimalistic décor and coastal cuisine with global influences, the finedining restaurant reels customers in with sumptuous starters like fresh oysters (especially good with a bottle of white), crispy calamari with Vietnamese sauce and roasted jalapeño aioili as well as delicate salmon cured in beetroot and gin with beetroot and strawberry purée, crème fraîche, coriander chutney, strawberries and black rice crackers. Mains are exquisitely fresh and refined, with almost too many brilliant dishes to choose from.

We recommend the spicy, frightfully delicious prawn tail

and homemade squid ink tagliatelle, served simply in a magnificent tomato and fennel cream with chilli pesto and rocket. Or, for something punchier, the full-flavoured beef fillet that melts in your mouth like butter, served with potato fondant, wild mushrooms and a brandy and green peppercorn sauce. For dessert, make sure to order the incredible ‘Gin & Tonic’ – zesty and refreshing gin and juniper sorbet with toasted marshmallow meringue, lemon curd and cucumber gelée. One thing’s for sure – eating by the water gives your meal that extra shine, which is why we highly recommend indulging.

What’s more, service is uniformly excellent, a cheerful atmosphere reigns and there’s more space one floor above for sunset cocktails.

2 Maritime Place, Harbour, Durban 031 940 4628 www.9thavewaterside.co.za

A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 45

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

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

HIGH

ROLLERS Indulge yourself in luxury with these 3 motoring splurges

In a time of restriction, there’s nothing wrong with indulging yourself.

So, if money is no object, which are the most luxurious cars in South Africa in 2021? Join motoring journalist Daniel Calbacho as he explores three fabulous splurges in the motoring world – the ultra-rare, ultra-expensive and ultra-luxurious Porsche Taycan, Audi RS Q8 and limited-edition Range Rover Fifty.

This is the cream of the super-luxury crop!

46 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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 2021 | 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

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

THE ELECTRIFYING

PORSCHE TAYCAN

T

he 2021 Porsche Taycan (pronounced tie-kahn) is a truly innovative electric vehicle, showcasing the high-performance potential of the species. As the first production electric vehicle (EV) with an 800-volt architecture and a multispeed automatic transmission, it sets new benchmarks in charging speeds and acceleration times. In fact, the top-of-the-line 1050N.m Turbo S is among the quickest cars on the market, even trying hypercars like the R7.5m McLaren 720S Spider from 0 to 100km/h in 2.9 seconds.

This EV also has stamina, with the ability to make multiple high-speed runs without a significant loss in performance.

Sure, the four-door sedan has a much shorter estimated driving range than its primary rival, the Tesla Model S that unfortunately isn’t available in South Africa, and the top-of-the-range versions cost twice that of other Porsches at present. But the Taycan drives like a Porsche sports car and exhilarates in ways few electric models have done before, which is why I have it on this indulgent shopping list.

48 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

Most Taycan models feature dual electric motors, with one powering the front wheels and the other powering the rears. They produce separate outputs that vary by trim level. All Taycan models also have an innovative two-speed transmission that provides a thrilling shift during hard acceleration. While all three variants feature all-wheel drive and an innovative two-speed transmission that provides a thrilling shift during hard acceleration, a rear-drive model will eventually join the line-up.

Interestingly, the Tesla Model S that also reached 100km/h in under three seconds isn’t able to make repeated acceleration runs without experiencing severe performance degradation. The Taycan could though. This, along with the car’s low-slung driving position and precise steering, is what makes the Porsche special among electric vehicles. Plus, it’s comfortable – even rolling on 21-inch wheels with narrow sidewalls tyres, the Taycan Turbo S manages to maintain being relatively comfortable.

Inside, the sleek-looking Taycan is a tech-laden environment. The design is ostensibly simple and recalls

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

what can be seen in other Porsche models. As expected, the interior can be covered in a range of rich materials and different colour schemes. There’s a long list of luxury options, including four-zone climate control, massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. Note that these are all very pricey. The Taycan comes standard with 2+2 seating, but there’s an option to add a third spot in the back if desired. I found the electrified Porsche’s rear accommodations and storage space to be a bit lacking and didn’t enjoy having to manoeuvre into the low front seat. However, from behind the wheel, the view out is excellent; one that could easily become a familiar place of excitement.

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

the 83.7kWh battery can go from a 5% charge to 80% in about 23 minutes. However, 800-volt DC fast chargers are rare. The more common 400-volt DC fast chargers provide 50kWh, which can charge the battery from 5% to 80% in 93 minutes. Opting for the available 150-kW onboard charger does reduce that time. Porsche says charging the Taycan’s largest battery from fully drained to 100% at home with the standard 9.6kWh AC charger will require 10.5 hours.

The price tag: Pricing for the Taycan ranges from R2.5m for the base Taycan 4S, which would be my choice, followed by Turbo model at R3.4m and the Turbo S at R4m.

Now for the important question of range, charging and battery life. The Taycan’s driving range is unremarkable compared with that of the Tesla Model S, which can crest 643km on a charge. The Taycan has an estimated range of 320km with the smaller battery and 365km with the larger pack. Every model features an 800-volt architecture that allows a charging capacity of up to 270kWh. Models with A ut um n 2021 | 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

THE RS Q8

THE ULTIMATE AUDI SUV

W

ith a whopping 441kWh under the hood, the 2021 Audi RS Q8 is the ultimate Audi SUV. It borrows elements from the outrageous Lamborghini Urus while still incorporating the German luxury brand’s signature styling.

All models come with Quattro all-wheel drive as standard, and Audi says this beast can leap to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. The cabin is layered with premium materials, including Nappa leather upholstery and your choice of either genuine carbon-fibre trim or wood accents. All of Audi’s latest tech gadgets are standard here too, such as the Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display and dual-screen infotainment system. Not into performance SUVs? Audi offers this same bonkers powertrain in the svelte RS6 Avant station wagon.

The RS Q8 comes with a seven-figure price tag, but its performance, styling and featured content are likely to be worth the investment. All RS Q8 models come with a standard adaptive air suspension system, 22-inch wheels, heated and ventilated front seats as well as a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system. What’s more, the RS Q8 has a twin-turbocharged four-litre V-8 engine that’s paired with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic. There’s also a 48-volt hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency.

50 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

The RS Q8’s five-seat cabin is mostly the same as the Q8’s, although it has some special trim pieces and sportier, more aggressively bolstered front seats to hold you in place while cornering. There are also RS logos sprinkled throughout. Passenger and cargo space carries over unchanged from the regular Q8 model, which means plenty of legroom and headroom for adults in both rows of seats.

The Audi Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster and dualtouchscreen MMI interface have certain RS-specific displays that can show information such as torque and power output, lap times and g-forces. Other than that, we expect the same technology offered in the Q8, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio.

The RS Q8 is the ultimate Audi SUV, but the most discerning auto enthusiasts recognise that it’s not the ultimate Audi. That title goes to the RS6 Avant, but seeing as South Africans aren’t into station wagons, the RS Q8 will have to do!

The price tag: Pricing for the RS Q8 starts at R2.36m.

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

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

50 YEARS OF

RANGE ROVER

50

and fabulous! The Range Rover Fifty special edition is to celebrate 50 years of Land Rover’s Range Rover, which first launched in 1970. There are only 1970 units of the special edition that are for sale worldwide. The Range Rover Fifty is be based on the luxurious Autobiography trim, but features plenty of special distinguishing features inside and out.

Being a special edition, the Range Rover Fifty has plenty of bespoke features, like exterior accents painted in Auric Atlas (that’s black) and two unique 22-inch wheel designs.

The special palette of four standard colours are Carpathian Grey, Rosello Red, Aruba and Santorini Black. If you crave another level of exclusivity, Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) will paint an extremely limited number of Range Rover Fifty SUVs in Tuscan Blue, Bahama Gold or Davos White, replicated from the colour palette of the original Range Rover. The vehicle’s badging carries a special ‘Fifty’ script lettering created by Land Rover design chief Gerry McGovern. In addition to being featured on the exterior badging, the special design will be visible on the headrests, dashboard, illuminated doorsills and centre console, which numbers each vehicle as ‘1 of 1970’.

When it first debuted in 1970, the Range Rover was the first SUV to feature permanent four-wheel drive. In 1989, it

became the first 4x4 to be fitted with anti-lock brakes.

Three years later, in 1992, the Range Rover became the first 4x4 with electronic traction control and an automatic electronic air suspension. In 2012, it was the first SUV to be constructed of aluminium. It was even the first vehicle to be displayed in the famous Louvre Museum in Paris. In addition to that long list of firsts, a Range Rover has crossed the Darien Gap and won the Paris–Dakar Rally twice.

Originally built to be a workhorse, the Range Rover has evolved into a status symbol for the wealthy. In years past you might’ve found them tackling off-road terrain, but as of late you’re more likely to find them in premium suburbs in the pickup line at a private school. Despite the change in scenery, the Range Rover retains its rugged roots and all-terrain capability. And regardless of where it goes, it’s for certain that its occupants will be in the lap of luxury. Since 1970, the Range Rover lineup has grown to include the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar, but the original Range Rover is still the ultimate Land Rover.

The price tag: Pricing for the Range Rover Fifty is R3.5m.

A ut um n 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 51

From the finest croissants and baguettes to hearty country loaves and boundary-shifting pastries, you can enjoy it all at the beautiful L’atelier Bakery; a patisserie, café and bakery in the trendy Keyes Art Mile district in Rosebank. Everything is made fresh using natural ingredients – with no additives or preservatives – that are guaranteed to make your taste buds dance.

Whether you’re after exquisite viennoiseries, pastries and desserts, a sandwich to accompany a perfect cup of coffee or a gorgeous cake for a special occasion, L’atelier Bakery is the answer. Their executive chef is readily available to discuss any special dietary requirements and prides himself on sourcing the best local and international ingredients to bring you a truly Parisian menu of handcrafted delicacies out of the world-class certified pastry kitchen.

L’atelier Bakery has also introduced a new tapas menu, which offers something for everyone – beef short rib tacos, pickled octopus, potato and herb croquettes, deep-fried cauliflower as well as beef and chicken sliders on brioche buns. For dessert, try the popular chocolate tart with chocolate sable, chocolate mousse and chocolate ganache, the cheesecake with berry jelly and white chocolate or the ‘Financier’ – brown butter cake with vanilla cream. There are also a number of vegan options on offer, including rice pudding made with coconut milk and moist orange cake with edible golf leaf.

Welcome to a space where confectionery excellence meets fine art. L’atelier Bakery brings you a taste of Paris and will satisfy every type of sweet tooth!

Level 1, Trumpet Building, 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank 010 110 7467 www.latelierbakery.com info@latelierbakery.com

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

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.

Combining 360-degree mountain and sea views with ‘skystronomy’ – the concept of gastronomy in the sky, courtesy of our Olympian chef, Infinity Restaurant boasts a stylish scene with a smorgasbord of celebratory drinks and on-trend dishes made from fresh, top-quality ingredients.

It’s a spot for casual comfort food – think dishes like alcohol-free beerbattered hake, a BBQ pulled pork burger on a brioche bun, prawn tagliatelle in a spicy tomato bisque sauce or smoked chicken breast with green beans, charred bell peppers, salty capers, coriander and an orange dressing. Infinity is also a beacon of breezy indulgence; the perfect space to take in cosmopolitan views with laid-back Mother City ease where one cocktail from our superb cocktail list, which celebrates all the classics, can quickly spiral into two or three … or more. Not to be missed is the namesake drink, the Infinity Cocktail – shaken with Bacardi, mango, strawberry and curaçao, it’s bursting with the flavours of the tropics.

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

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 Sparta beef sirloin with smoked tomato sauce, grilled onion and fried potato, as you feel transported to simpler times; a point in space and time that seems infinitely distant. Or, test your palette on specialties like sous vide rolled pork neck and Thai fish curry with cauliflower purée and a citrus butter sauce that packs a powerful flavour punch, paired with a wine from our stellar, wide-ranging wine list. If you fancy something a bit more extravagant with your meal, there’s also a fabulous selection of French champagnes plus some lovely MCCs and Proseccos. Adding doses of over-the-top eclecticism, the Afro-chic décor sets the mood itself.

Dining at Infinity Restaurant is a crash course in Africa’s melting pot culture and history, vividly retold by dishes that make the most of local seasonal food underpinned by bold flavours and international flair. Book in advance to avoid disappointment – the 10-seater Captain’s Table seats 10 and offers the best views in the house.

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

54 | w w w .s c en ein t h ec it y.c o .za | Autumn 2 0 2 1

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 2021 | www. sc e n e i n th e c i ty . c o . z a | 55

ENLIGHTEN

21917

POWER TRIO Complete daily skincare regimen targeting visible discolouration, uneven skin tone and dark spots

POWER TRIO

STEP UP & TARGET

CLEANSER AM/PM

SERUM AM/PM

MOISTURISER AM/PM

TARGET AM/PM

ULTRA BRIGHTENING CLEANSER

ILLUMINATING SERUM

PIGMENT CONTROLLER

DARK SPOT CORRECTOR

Genop Healthcare (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 3911, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa.

Co. Reg. No.: 1984/011575/07. Tel: +27 (0)11 545 9300. www.genop.co.za. 04/2021/PROMO/108.

neostrata.co.za