If you ever want to experience a historic restaurant with unique flair, here are 3 gems to add to your bucket list.
These locations are too good to miss out on.
Cape Town
The Winchester Boutique Hotel (Sea Point)
By the sound of it, this hotel is draped in history and nostalgia. Cape Town’s iconic Winchester Mansions are filled with vibrant colours of pink and purple, from the majestic display of picturesque Bougainvillea creepers.
But let’s get to the really good part – the food! The food is inspired by flames, including a contemporary menu that aims to elevate fire-cooked food, embracing different cuisines.
The idea is to bring global travellers and South Africans together, in one unique location.
The Winchester Hotel reopened in 2021, after the historic building underwent a major facelift.
If you’re in the mood for sundowners with a stunning view, Harvey’s bar – along with a brand-new restaurant, Shoreditch House – offer a variety of exotic drinks and meals.
Harvey’s is known as a favourite spot, with its famous street-side terrace, with an amazing view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Johannesburg
Cantare Dinner & Dance and Vintage Varga Bar
If you’re in the mood to dress up and enjoy a “Las Vegas” vibe, then this is the place for you. Cantare Dinner and Dance, in Montecasino, is a dining experience you’ll never forget, as you dance the night away.
With fine dining, a fantastic Vintage Varga cabaret show, Vintage Varga models, and old-style smoke and mirrors, Cantare tantalises all the senses, while still upholding traditional South African values. The shows are updated regularly, and there is an age restriction of 23.
Durban
The Prep Room
The Prep Room is most certainly a unique restaurant. It is a shipping container structure created by Bloc Architects, with urban chic interiors by JSD Interiors.
The Prep Room is situated in Glenwood Preparatory School. The kitchen and bar are built within the container on a higher level, while underneath the deck hosts the dining area overlooking the sports ground.
It is ideal for family get-togethers. On a Monday, they offer open mic sessions, and on Fridays they have curry nights.