The Office restaurant and bar

 
 
Founded by a group of entrepreneurs, The Office was born out of a belief that great ideas can only be explored in the right environment. Kitchen tables, coffee shops and box-shaped office in business parks aren't conducive to productivity. A laptop, cloud storage and a cell phone allows you to work anywhere - so why not choose a relaxed space? 

Indeed, that was the idea! A modern spin on a private member's club, The Office is a place to work and socialise.... but is it?

So on a sunny afternoon, got the munchies and decided to give it a go.. In all fairness, I still thought this was "Blakes" which I enjoyed for the bangers and mash.. but hey, I was already there and hungry so gave in..

When I got in, the place was totally empty - I could hear the sound of flying bugs, was so quiet. None the less, never judge a restaurant by its empty surroundings.., right?

Although, they tried to add some nice touch to the deco, I found it somewhat cold, even in the day's 32 degrees heat.. The staff was friendly though and looked desperate to have something to do.

I was disappointed that the new owners couldn't be bothered to change the menus holders from Blakes and still had pages of the Blakes menu within their own... thumbs up for recycling on this one but somewhat confusing when you want to order food... where was I???

 

The menu is extensive... a tad confusing and frankly overpriced...

 

 

 

Bonus point : the stunning view from the deck :)
Downside : Offices / board rooms scattered all over the place making it cold and dull - Might work for an office rental space (maybe) but not recommended for a meal. 

The food?? Well, if I haven't mentioned it, was not worth mentioning! Don't waste your time, nor money!

http://theofficecpt.co.za/

La parada tapas Bar

Opened since September last year, La Parada has become one of my favourite place to hang out.


Like its sister restaurant in Kalk Bay, La Parada celebrates the Spaniard passion for social eating.
If you have been in Spain before, you would know how much the Spanish love late, loooong social dinners where the focus is on meeting friends and socialising while enjoying a whole bunch of delightful foods.
I love tapas - simply because I love food! And if you know me a little, you will know that I always struggle picking one dish only and I want to try a bit of everything at once. This is exactly why, La Parada is my heaven place. With tapas ranging between R15 to R25 each for small portions and R35 to R50 for large portions, you will not break your bank account.



My ideal lunch is to order 6-7 different small portions and usually my bill comes to about R150 for all to be shared with a friend or lover - Not too shabby if you ask me! (and you don't go home hungry at all)
  - I personally didn't enjoy the oxtail though, was too sweet and too much cinnamon...seems to be some form of trend in Cape Town, as if the town wasn't sweet enough already! :)






Spanish chefs produce calamari tubes with fresh salsa verde for soaking up with crusty bread, tender and fragrantly spiced oxtail canneloni with crisp potato topping, and patatas bravas (squares of fried potato in a vivid tomato sauce). The paprika-spinkled octopus, served on a bed of sliced potato, tastes much better than it looks. Croquettes (in prawn and ham versions) are everything you dreamed: creamy in the centre and dark golden and crisp on the outside. Glossy with garlic and olive oil, this is rich, bold food that’s not for sissies.

Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12pm – late (kitchen closes at 10pm); Sunday: 12pm – 5pm
107 Bree Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 424 2235

Henry Holland designs available at Mr Price!

Mr Price and Henry Holland Collaboration

The news of the day for us ladies of Cape Town : Mr Price have collaborated with indie-rock-pop band FUN, to produce a line of limited edition tees available at Mr Price stores. 

With that an entire new range of fabulous, fun dresses and other items come with Mr Holland - We had the privilege to be at the Mr Price Summer Festival party for the launch of the new range and let me tell you, its just beyond stunning.

The launch was set in the beautiful gardens of no other but the Résidence de France - it was like being a little girl all over again with a beauty bar so you can have your nails done and your hair braided - a flower stand to make your own flower crown - 2 pop up shops with instant shopping available with the latest designs. There was so much to see and to do, it was an amazing experience, attended by most Cape Town's A-Listers :)

All this to the beautiful sound of Jimmy Nevis's live performance, followed by DJ's until the night ended - just spoilled I tell you!!

 

FUN and Mr Price will donate R10 from the sale of each tee to the Red Cap Foundation Schools Project an initiative that empowers and creates cultures of learning excellence in schools throughout South Africa.

The co-lab with FUN. is the perfect combination of hot fashion, happening music and giving back to the community.

Another exciting co-lab is with Henry Holland, one of London’s hottest fashion designers. His dynamic and risk-taking fashion epitomises cutting edge London street style and everyone from international supermodel Agyness Deyn to music superstar MIA have rocked his designs. R10 from the sale of each of these items will also be donated to the Red Cap Foundation Schools Project. 

You can find all of these items of clothing at your local Mr Price store, or shop online here!

Oh the fun :)

Devonvale Provoyeur Wine

Who doesn't love a good glass of full bodied wine after a hard day of labor?
We all do of course!

And who doesn't love a nice relaxing day in a peaceful quiet place where we can eat as much as an ogre and drink.. well as much as ... an ogre too?
Well, one of my favorite place is Devonvale in Stellenbosh. About 30 mins drive from Cape Town, Devonvale is first of all a world class golf course, but also an wine farm and event venue surrounded by rolling vineyards and majestic mountains, the ideal place for the entire family or just a meal for two.
I enjoy their Sunday lunch as I hate doing anything at all on Sundays and this is always a good excuse to top up on most divine wine! :) And now that the sun has finally decided to join us, it's the perfect time to take a little trip to Stellenbosh, enjoy a good home cooked Sunday lunch and come back the boot full of wine for the season! Oh and if you happened to have one too many, you can always just stay over in luxurious accommodation.
With their wonderful Provoyeur Cabernet Shiraz blend at R45 per bottle, you cannot go wrong and you will find me leaving Devonvale with 2 or 3 cases each time.. hehe which I always share with my friends though!




The Cabernet / Shiraz is a meaty red blend of cabernet sauvignon 60% and shiraz 40%. Wood smoke and  pepper on the nose is carried by a savoury palate of red fruit and chocolate with a chalky mineral finish. Matured for 12 months with new French Oak.
My second favourite,  which has been recently voted N°1 on the top 12 Wine ( Top12 listing here )  is the Cabernet Sauvignon at R75 per bottle.
A classic Cape Cabernet Sauvignon with deep crimson colour. A palate of blackcurrant, green herbs and a chalky mineral finish compliments Cedarwood and cigarbox on the nose. A perfect companion for classic fine dining.
For More information and booking or purchase, contact Brigitte (who is just lovely) on brigitte@devonvale.co.za or +27 (0) 21 888 4736.
I hope you enjoy as much as I do and try to meet with JJ Provoyeur while you are there, he is one of the most interesting man I have met, and again, just so nice and lovely!! (must come from drinking that delicious wine!!)
 

Its Braai day on Tuesday 24th (South African heritage day - BBQ day)

If you dont yet know the word "Braai", it is the local slang for BBQ- and if anyone in the world knows how "to braai", it's definitely the South Africans! It is in their blood more than in their culture!



So if you are not planning your own Braai  or haven't yet been invited to one, celebrate South African culture at a selection of Braai Day events this Heritage Day - get ready to smell burning meat wherever you will be tomorrow, nothing will stop the South Africans from Braaing tomorrow!

See few places you can experience this unique wonderrful and warm day!

Heritage Day Potjiekos Challenge at Noordhoek Farm Village

Contestants who craft the best tasting, truly South African potjie stand a chance to take home the gold, silver and bronze medals as well as a hearty helping of bragging rights.
Though, this Heritage Day affair isn’t limited to only those slaving away over their steaming, three-legged cast iron pots; visitors can sample each potjie and can perhaps even sway the judges’ opinions. Samples will be for sale at R20 per container (and rice, eco-friendly containers and utensils for eating will be provided), and the proceeds of the sales go to a nominated charity.
Time:09:00 - 18:00
Venue:Noordhoek Farm Village
Location:Cnr Main Road and Village Lane | Noordhoek
Price:R20p/p
Phone:+27 (0) 21 789 1317
Email  info@noordhoekvillage.co.za

Braai Day Menu at Dornier Bodega
For an elegant National Braai Day, indulge in lavish dining and fine wine at Dornier Bodega restaurant in Stellenbosch. On Tuesday, 24 September 2013, the charming eatery will be offering a special Braai Day menu, and guests can look forward to an upscaled version of the traditional South African barbeque: beef fillet, lamb chops and boerewors grilled on the fire. A pescetarian option of linefish, also done on the braai, is on offer too. The cost is R250p/p for a three-course meal (it also includes a mezze platter for starters and delicious local desserts), and the experience comes complete with views of scenic fynbos-clad hills and manicured vines.
Dornier Wine Estate | Blaauwklippen Road | Stellenbosch | +27 (0) 21 880 0557

The Backyard Grill Lounge

Looking for a chilled vibe with your mates this braai day? Pop in at the Backyard Grill Lounge in Sea Point for some steaks and beers. Although the barbeque-focused eatery will not be hosting an actual event, there will be a steak special running on Tuesday, 24 September, that treats patrons to 300g of rump or rib-eye (including a side) for a mere R99. The succulent meat is smothered in Jason’s (the owner) signature “everything but the kitchen sink” basting sauce and expertly grilled by a seasoned braai master. If you haven’t come across this young and bustling restaurant just yet, don’t be fooled by the narrow, unassuming entrance. Walk through to the warm, rustic interior and on to the large outside (‘backyard’) barbeque area and make yourself at home. If you’re looking for something a bit less meaty, the menu offers alternative seafood and vegetarian options too. On Heritage Day the restaurant opens at 12pm.
72 Regent Road | Sea Point | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 433 1296

Longest Braai Marathon: Guinness World Record Attempt (22 – 27 September 2013)

Join Kidz Adventure Camp NPC at the Jan Burger Sports Complex in Parow North as John Hamman attempts to break the current Guinness World Record for the longest braai marathon with a five-day barbeque (clocking up to 120 hours). The festivities start on Sunday, 22 September 2013, with loads of family- and kid-friendly activities and live Xtreme Wrestling Entertainment. On National Braai Day, moms and dads can keep the kiddies entertained with jumping castles, and everyone is invited to bring along their Weber and enjoy some live music and braai day fun. Those who can’t make it to the venue can sponsor a braai pack, and all food braaied during the five-day challenge will be donated to orphanages around Cape Town. Entry to this event is free.
Jan Burger Sports Complex | De Grendel Road | Parow North | +27 (0) 76 323 5057

Hazendal Wine Estate’s Bring & Braai Day Celebration

For those who insist on holding fast to their braai master status, but who don’t have space at home to fire up the grill, Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch is offering the perfect solution. The farm, with its sprawling lawns, mountain vistas and charming Cape Dutch architecture, is hosting a family-friendly Bring and Braai celebration for Heritage Day from 11am to 5pm on Tuesday, 24 September. So, pack your meat, drinks, glasses, blankets and portable braais with grids and enjoy a picnic on the estate’s gorgeous greens. A jumping castle and jungle gym will be set up for the little ones, and Hazendal wine can be purchased from the restaurant. Don’t forget the wood and ice! The entrance fee is R30 per adult, and kids enter for free.
Bottelary Road | Koelenhof | Stellenbosch | +27 (0) 21 903 5034

Heritage Day Lunch at The Clubhouse

The Clubhouse restaurant at the Claremont Cricket Club in Constantia is hosting its very first annual Heritage Day braai-inspired lunch on Tuesday, 24 September 2013. The family-style eatery is a great place for a traditional Braai Day celebration, and patrons can enjoy breathtaking scenery and views of Table Mountain across the cricket fields. The menu for the day includes dishes like Coconut and Coriander-Infused Chicken Skewers, Homemade Clubhouse Boerewors and Crispy Bacon, Caper, Red Onion, Pickle and Herb Potato Salad, to name just a few. Overall, you can expect a casual atmosphere, excellent food and great service, all at a cost of R115 for adults and R55 for children (drinks for patrons’ own account). The lunch starts at 12:30pm.
Claremont Cricket Club | Constantia Sports Complex | Constantia | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 794 6314

Snoek Braai at Delheim Estate

Celebrate Heritage Day with a laidback snoek braai at the legendary Delheim wine farm, which rests just outside of Stellenbosch. From 12pm on the public holiday, the estate’s proprietors, the Sperling family, will light the fires in celebration of South African cultural diversity. The fresh snoek will be accompanied by traditional roosterkoek, mielies (sweet corn), sweet potatoes and braai salads; plus, the children can enjoy a special sausage-on-a-skewer alongside fresh fruit. Then, for dessert, adults can indulge in Delheim’s popular mascarpone cheesecake with berry coulis while kiddies tuck into a passion fruit sorbet cone. The cost to join in on the festivities is R145p/pfor adults and R65p/p for children under the age of 12. Seating is limited, so booking is essential.
Knorhoek Road | Stellenbosch | +27 (0) 21 888 4607 

DIY Braai at Nederburg’s The Red Table

Book a braai barrel at The Red Table restaurant at Nederburg wine estate in celebration of Heritage Day on Tuesday, 24 September. The eatery will provide meat and seafood, as well as side dishes like salads, vegetables, traditional pap and sheba (tomato and onion relish), and guests are encouraged to fire up their own flames. If a DIY braai is not your thing though, the restaurant’s chefs are kind enough to man the grid on your behalf (just indicate this request when you make the booking). A tasty starter of home-baked flatbread with hummus, basil pesto and baba ghanoush will be served before the actual braai commences. And, of course, a wide array of reasonably priced fine wines from the Nederburg range will also be on offer. The cost of reserving a braai barrel is R220p/p for adults and R95p/p for kids, and the best braaier of the day will win a great wine prize. The braai starts at 12pm, and booking well in advance is essential.
Sonstraal Road | Daljosafat | Paarl | +27 (0) 21 877 5155

Braai Day Treats at Durbanville Hills Wines

Looking to do something a bit less formal on Braai Day? Durbanville Hills is offering a great option. At the estate on 24 September, you can enjoy live music and an assortment of gourmet boerewors rolls and chicken sosaties fresh off the braai at only R35 a serving. Alternatively, you can relax while being served lunch from the restaurant’s a la carte menu. There’s no need to braai yourself, so you’ll be free to spread out on the lawns and soak up the spectacular view of the vineyards and Table Mountain’s silhouette.
Tygerberg Road | Durbanville | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 558 1300
 

DIY BRAAI

OUDERKRAAL

Waves lapping gently at the sandy shore, a bevy of beauties parading around and wonderfully maintained braai areas make Oudekraal a must.
Location: Between Camps Bay and Llandudno
Contact: +27 (0)21 438 9555
Website: www.sanparks.org

SILVERMINE

With a backdrop of the beautiful Table Mountain Reserve,  Silvermine braai and picnic area is arguably the most beautiful BBQ settings in Cape Town. This is a fantastic braai spot for an ultra-sunny day but braaiing isn’t allowed during the hot summer months as it is a fire risk – take advantage of the Mother City’s warm winter days for this spot. The official braai areas are situated alongside the Silvermine reservoir and each clearing boasts a large and relatively private picnic space for its users. There are also plenty of trails and bird watching perches as well.
Cost: R25 adults, R10 kids under 12 (Wild Card holders are free).
Gate times: 07h00 to 19h00.
Tel: 021-780-9002
Need to know: Swimming in the reservoir is allowed so bring your cozzie.

Wynberg Park

Luscious lawns, a huge playground for the little ones and ample facilities to prove your braaing skills ... what’s not to love about Wynberg Park?
Location: Corner of Klaasens and Trovato Link Roads, Wynberg
Contact: +27 (0)21 710 9403
Website: www.capetown.gov.za

Braai with Mzoli's

Great music, expertly braaied meat and a vibrant township vibe that you just won’t find anywhere else make Mzoli’s Place in Gugulethu a Capetonian favourite.
Location: Shop 3, NY115 & NY108, Gugulethu
Contact: +27 (0)21 638 1355

Braai with Amadoda 

Similar concept to Mzoli's but with already made up menus to choose from, great vibe and music, a Woodstock favorite!
Location: 4 Strand Street, Woodstock,

Day trip braai

Die Strandloper Seafood Restaurant

The aromatic fish braai at this coastal restaurant in Langebaan is worth the drive. Try their angel fish, snoek, crayfish, freshly baked bread and more. The moerkoffie (traditionally very strong coffee) and company aren’t too bad either!
Location: Langebaan
Contact: +27 (0)22 772 2490
Website: www.strandloper.com

European goods available in Cape Town at Euro Goods

So if like most of us foreigners, you go home with an empty suit case, just so that you can bring back all your favourite goodies from back home, this is the place for you!
Recently opened at the Palms centre in Woodstock, Euro is a little shop full of great non perishable food products from Europe. Mainly imported from Germany and Italy, they are starting to also stock some French products and you can also request some specific products and they can source them for you.

The good part is that they are really not overpriced either!
I bought some raspberry syrup (cordial), some chocolates, beers, jars of veg, Jaffa cakes of course and other little goodies for a small price :) Made my day to get home and savour some of Home in Cape Town!

You can find anything from pastas, to sauces to 4 ply toilet paper....and all type of sweets such as Milka chocolates, Harribo sweets, Jaffa cakes and German beers (a wide variety including 0% alcohol)

They are open Monday to Friday 9 till 5pm and Saturdays 9 till 2pm.

 

Cell:  (083) 294 7543

E-mail: schalkstapelberg@gmail.com

Web: www.germangoods.co.za

Location: The Palms décor centre, Sir Lowry road, Woodstock.

MARKET : The Lock Stock launches at the Woodstock exchange this Satudray

The fabulous design market takes centre stage at the Woodstock Exchange weekly, kicking off with their launch event this Saturday, where you will find art, clothing, jewellery, collectibles, homeware, object design, furniture and more. The designers & traders change from one week to another, so you will be treated to fresh design from the city’s best

The Lock Stock is all grown up and moved into a home of its own. The fabulous design market takes centre stage at the Woodstock Exchange weekly, kicking off with their launch event this Saturday, where you will find art, clothing, jewellery, collectibles, homeware, object design, furniture and more. The designers & traders change from one week to another, so you will be treated to fresh design from the city’s best. - See more at: http://www.b-guided.co.za/edits/2013/08/29/market-update/#sthash.apsB4aMf.r4xGGxPA.dpuf

Former younger sister to the Palms Food Market, The Lock Stock is all grown up and moved into a home of its own. The fabulous design market takes centre stage at the Woodstock Exchange weekly, kicking off with their launch event this Saturday, where you will find art, clothing, jewellery, collectibles, homeware, object design, furniture and more. The designers & traders change from one week to another, so you will be treated to fresh design from the city’s best. - See more at: http://www.b-guided.co.za/edits/2013/08/29/market-update/#sthash.apsB4aMf.r4xGGxPA.dpuf