Top 5

We’ve tallied the votes & these are your top picks from shopping to dining, drinking and sleeping…

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Top 5 Private Game Reserves in South Africa

South Africa is beyond famous for its’ incredible game reserves and lodges. People flock from all around the world to experience Africa in one of our top class facilities. Some just back a tent and trundle off but others seek out SA’s most luxurious and exclusive wildlife experiences. As far as we’re concerned, we’d be more than happy to stay at ANY of these reserves, but here are our Top 5!

1. Singita – Sabi Sand

It’s no secret Singita has been winning awards for some time now and although all of their private reserves are spectacular, Sabi Sand is regarded as uniquely special. With three magnificent but warm lodges set on a massive plot of Big 5 rich land, it’s easy to see why Singita Sabi Sand was recently ranked number 9 in the Condé Nast travellers awards in the Middle East, Africa and India Ocean.

2. Londolozi

One of the original pioneering Private Game Reserves of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation, conservation is at the core of their ethics. World renowned as one of Africas finest game lodges, Londolozi was the first game reserve in the world to be accorded Relais & Chateaux status, with each of its’ 5 lodges committed to luxurious accommodation, fine cuisine and exceptional service.

3. Thanda

Wildlife, romance and exclusivity meet at Thanda Private Game Reserve – an award-winning safari destination in northern Zululand.Originally purchased as degraded cattle farms, Thanda’s wildlife management has concentrated on an extensive rehabilitation project, which included reintroducing the Big Five. The newly added Luxury Tented Camp is the epitome of oppulent colonial safari-style, perfect for guests who are searching for an authentic safari experience!

4. Shamwari

Home to Africas Big 5 and is situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa Shamwari has received numerous international awards, including the Worlds Leading Conservation Company and Game Reserve for many consecutive years.Luxury safari accommodation is offered in 7 different 5-star lodges on the 25 000 hectare reserve. From rustic treetop hideaways to colonial bush mansions, Shamwari will make your safari dreams come true.

5. Phinda

Phinda is unique in that is includes seven distinct habitats – a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, river courses, marshes and pans. At Phinda intimate encounters and rare discoveries can be experienced firsthand. With unspoiled beaches and spectacular reefs nearby, and an abundance of wildlife, Phinda offers the perfect bush and beach adventure. Six luxury lodges, each set in varying environments, provide exclusivity and privacy deeply set in the natural environment.

Filed under: Top 5, Accommodation, Game Reserve, Luxury, South Africa, Travel & Tourism, Wildlife

Top 5 KZN North Coast Beach Wedding Venues

Though we initially aimed to find the best beach wedding venues in Durban, the North Coast in particular proved to be a more popular option – just a few minutes outside of Durban you’ll find unspoiled beaches that stretch for miles just begging for a breath-taking wedding!

1. Canelands Beach Club & Spa

Canelands Beach Club and spa is a stylish and modern beach retreat just metres from Tiffany’s Beach, Salt Rock. With 10 spacious bedrooms that sleep a max of 20 guests & a restaurant serving 3 meals daily, Canelands is just intimate enough to create an exclusive & personal beach wedding for up to 100 guests – all overlooking the magnificent Indian Ocean.

2. Palm Dune Beach Lodge

This stunning yet rustic lodge is a premier North Coast wedding destination with direct beach access and options for an indoor or outdoor deck celebration. The cosy ambience is offset by fine dining cuisine and luxurious accommodation and an in-house spa. Their in-house wedding co-ordinator will make sure nothing goes amiss and the couple can enjoy their day stress-free.

3. Salt Rock Hotel

Expect affordable luxury at the Salt Rock Hotel. Set amongst the leafy green North Coast jungle, this venue is central – just 20 mins from the airport – with plenty of accommodation and amenities close by. There are several different indoor and outdoor venue options, catering to small or large parties, including a unique elevated glass room with a stunning ocean view.

4. The Boathouse

A popular venue with old-world charm, The Boathouse is also known for affordable class in a stunning setting. Ceremonies can take place on the sand or the expansive deck and all will be tailored to the bride’s particular specs. Comfortable & stylish rooms are available on the premises and the in-house restaurant serves top quality food.

5. Fairmont Zimbali Resort

Zimbali is a uniquely luxurious environment populated by decadent homes, stunning 5 star resorts and unbelievable natural beauty. While the Lodge is the most popular venue, there are other venues on the property that cater to the true beach wedding, allowing couples to say their “I do’s” on the flawless sand of the private Zimbali Beach. There are also several restaurants & reception venues that can accommodate a varied number of guests.

Filed under: Top 5, Durban, Events, South Africa, Wedding

Top 5 Cape Town Bakeries

As with most things food-related, Capetonians are mad about their bakeries and, as usual, they are spoiled for choice with a selection so great that it’s almost criminal to start picking favourites… However, we’re going to do just that!

1. Jason

His croissants found fame at the former Jardine Bakery, but since Captain Bread opened his Bree Street hole-in-the-wall bakery, the work lunch crowd are just as interested in his delectable sarmies, bread, pies and quiches at Jason. Rumour has it the New York cheesecake is also mind-blowing.

2. Knead

What started out as a humble artisan bread shop has turned into a bustling franchise frequented by Cape Town’s surfers and salesmen looking for a killer cup of coffee and a decadent baked delight or even a wood-fired pizza for the lunch crowd.

 

3. Olympia

Charming and quirky, Olympia has won the hearts of the Kalk Bay locals with its’ wholesome baked goods and meals, divine speciality breads and good coffee. Famous for their ciabatta, people have been known to make the drive across town to get their fix.

 

4. Dinkel

Bread is the firm focus of this tra­di­tional German bakery with specialities including 100% rye, dinkel­brot, plum­cake and apple cake. Sit down and indulge in some Dormans cof­fee and milch­bro­etchen and don’t forget to leave with some pretzels.

 

5. The Foodbarn

Not strictly a bakery, but certainly skilled in the art of producing magnificent fresh pastries, pies, cakes, muffins and biscuits, which are baked daily at dawn. This explains why Foodbarn is such a popular choice for breakfasts. But really, the country-chic relaxed atmosphere and amazing food is a hit with locals and visitors at any time of day!

Filed under: Top 5, Bakery, Cape Town, Food & Wine

Top 5 Durban Indian Restaurants

By entering into a debate about Indian food in Durban we do realize we’re wading into treacherous water! There are almost too many options and everyone has their own particular favourite! With this in mind, we tried to stick to certain parameters in our judgement – not including restaurants outside of the “Durban” area or restaurants that qualified more as take-away spots.

That said, honourable mentions need to go to the following favourites: Seabelle in Westbrook, the Salt Rock Hotel, House of Curries, Little Gujarat, Hollywood Sportsbook and the famous Goundens, who incidentally won our Top 5 Durban Bunny Chows handsdown!

1. Britannia

A landmark in every sense of the word, it’s incredible how Britannia and it’s accompanying restaurant Capsicum are consistently recommended for their curries. There was simply no contest when asking locals and out-of-towners alike. A full refurbishment in 2000 has elevated this spot to cult status, which is visible by the continuously packed parking lot, especially on weekends!

2. Indian Summer

Tucked away in Durban North, Indian Summer’s food has slowly but surely developed a sublime reputation in and out the area. Hailing from Mumbai, friendly owner Bimal might talk you through the menu, offer recommendations and take orders. His authentic, tasty and value-for-money alternative to run-of-the-mill starters are a hit!

3. Vintage

An upmarket and beautiful restaurant perfect for romantic date, you can’t help but love Vintage. The multi-Indian menu runs the gauntlet from traditional North Indian to Goan and Hydrabadi. The Kababs from the Tandoor oven are best teamed with a good wine from their carefully selected wine list.

4. Jewel of India

One word comes up time and again when people talk about Jewel of India at the Elangeni Hotel – Authentic. This is one of the handful of Indian restaurants in the city that is just as popular with Indians as other clientele. Thanks to its location, Jewel also serves a wide variety of foreigners who often remark on the friendly service & sumptuous decor.

5. Indian Connection

One of the newer establishments in this list, Indian Connection has nevertheless begun to make a big impression on the Durban foodies, owing to a tasty and authentic menu & friendly service. The venue is well situated in a beautiful old Morningside house where beautiful Indian art, modern decor and twinkling fairy lights all add to the delightful ambience.

Filed under: Top 5, Durban, Food & Wine, Restaurants

Top 5 Cityscape Wedding Venues in Joburg

If you live in a big city like Joburg, sometimes it’s just better to embrace your environment than try and pretend you’re living elsewhere. That’s what today’s Top 5 is all about – making the most of Joburg’s awesome cityscape & incorporating it into your biggest of days. Some of these venues are so cool, they put the average beach wedding to shame!

1. 12 Decades Hotel

Perched atop the heart of the trendy Maboneng Precinct, you could not find a wedding venue with more street cred than this! Not only are the rooms super funky and modern, the rooftop function area has an incredible view of the city. Here you can have your rustic rooftop wedding, or create an event that’s classic and classy.

2. The Forum – Turbine Hall

Also based in the Newtown area, this historic building once served as a power station but has been refurbished into an industrial but modern and chic venue. Getting married here is probably the closest you could get to a NYC dream day – with the magnificent Jozi skyline outside to make you feel at home.

4. Radisson Blu – Sandton

There’s nothing dowdy about this stylish luxury hotel. A true cityscape venue, this one allows you to marvel at the skyline while you feast at the reception as well as having your glorious rooftop ceremony! The largest function room spans 320 square metres and is divisible into three separate rooms.

4. The Westcliff

The Westcliff is a traditional but truly an iconic Joburg venue, with a cityscape view to match. High on the hill, you will feel like a fairytale princess when you wed your prince at one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the city. With a choice of 4 elegant reception areas, including the famous Le Belle Terasse, you can be sure the food will also meet your expectations!

5. The Venue – Melrose Arch

Not so much ‘cityscape’ as a venue which embodies the modern & glamorous Jozi vibe, this space has played host to some of the city’s most exclusive shindigs. With 4 venue options inside the building, you can choose whether you want to be cocooned in one of the more intimate zones or parade like royalty in one of the larger banqueting halls. You’ll certainly feel like a celebrity when you pull up at this entrance.

Filed under: Top 5, Events, Joburg, Wedding

Top 5 Cape Town Music Venues

When it comes to live music in Cape Town there are a handful of excellent venues that have emerged over the years to become renowned for showcasing local, national and international talent, in genres ranging from rock to acoustic, electronic and even jazz. Some of them have long since established their reputations for top quality shows, while others have arrived with a bang on the local entertainment scene.

1. The Assembly

There is no other venue like this in South Africa. Not content to simply supply the city with top quality local and international bands, solo performers and electronic artists, The Assembly goes a step further. It’s not just a venue. Their website is crammed with awesome content that elevates its’ status to an institution that takes the time to really promote the artists who perform on their stage and continue to entertain their patrons outside of the venue.

2. Zula Sound Bar

Over the years Zula has hosted some of the country’s top artists. After a major relocation to larger premises at the end of 2011, Zulabar, as it is fondly known, has stepped up its’ game with bigger shows, better promotion and more support for artists. Add to this the fact that it’s located in Cape Town’s buzzing Long Street district and the fact that you can also enjoy a tasty (and/or healthy) breakfast the morning after and you have a winning recipe!

3. Mercury Live

Mercury is a bit of an institution in Cape Town. Many of the country’s greatest music legends played their first shaky chords in this grungy spot. If the walls could talk they’d tell you tales of Jack Daniels benders in the backstage and Black Label hangovers on the dancefloor. Mercury is still a breeding ground for up and coming talent and a good place to knock back whiskeys and listen to dirty blues.

4. The Waiting Room

Cosy and unpretentious with retro decor and lighting, the Waiting Room is situated above the well-known Royale Eatery – famous for its’ gourmet burgers and such. Originally intended simply as a holding area for the restaurant’s overflow, this laid-back meeting space has become a venue in its’ own right. Enjoy a diverse array of sounds from local DJ’s every weekend or sample some (mostly) acoustic sounds from South African bands and artists every Tuesday.

5. The Brass Bell

Not quite inside the city centre, but a legendary spot in its’ own right, the Brass Bell has a bit of everything, from delicious food, served from one of 5 different areas, to magnificent ocean views. After 30 years this venue continues to expand and develop, but regular live music has been part of its’ repertoire as far back as the 80s when greats like Johnny Clegg and Wendy Oldfield graced the stage.

Filed under: Top 5, Cape Town, Entertainment, Music, Nightlife

Top 5 Fine Dining Restaurants in Joburg

Joburgers don’t dwell languidly over their meals like Capetonians do. Maybe that’s why, despite the enormous size of the city, there are still more fine dining options in Cape Town? Maybe the best chefs just prefer to be in the more inspiring environment of the Cape? Either way, the foodie scene in Jozi is an altogether different space! It’s a ‘be seen’ scene, where politicians, moguls and shmoozers gather over single malts rather than Chardonnay…

1. DW Eleven-13

Marthinus Ferreira’s award-winning restaurant is contemporary, yet classic, featuring a small but diverse menu that changes regularly & includes daily seasonal specials that can be matched with a fantastic selection of wines. The only Johannesburg restaurant to be included in the prestigious Eat Out Top 10 for the last two years running, DW Eleven-13 has been described as a gastronomic sensation.

2. Cube Tasting Kitchen

Artistic and innovative, Cube Tasting Kitchen is the brainchild of celebrity chef Dario de Angeli. A first for Joburg, the restaurant offers a unique, constantly changing tasting menu of around 20 courses based on colours or textures – all of which demonstrate marvellous precision & technique. Dario charms his intimate gathering of diners each time with his passionate descriptions of each dish.

3. La Belle Terrasse

Set inside one of Johannesburg’s landmark hotels, The Westcliff, La Belle Terrasse has made a comeback with the help of chef extraordinaire Klaus Beckmann. Most who visit this restaurant are left as in awe of the cuisine as they are the magnificent view of the zoo gardens below. The menu features some authentic African treats as well as a selection of elegant and exquisite dishes like de-boned whole trout with rocket, orange, chickpeas and pomegranate sauce.

4. Ami Restaurant & Champagne Bar

Ami aims to delight on every level, from the deliciously stylish decor that mirrors the plating to the enormous selection of rare champagnes. The small a la carte menu is regularly updated and has an Asian-fusion style leaning towards classic French. Old black & white movies play out like wallpaper and a custom TUK-TUK will chauffeur you to your parking. (Read our interview with owner Tiaan Els here!)

5. Thomas Maxwell Bistro

The loyal following doesn’t lie and Thomas Maxwell certainly has that. The bistro’s popularity lies in the intimate dining experience that culminates in magnificent signature dishes like the famous steaming mussels & pommes frites with garlic, lemon & parsley cream. Chef Thomas Barker & his team don’t stay behind the scenes but prefer to get up close to their clientelle, describing the day’s specials and recommending suitable wines.

See our FULL Collection of Johannesburg’s swankiest & tastiest restaurants here! 

Filed under: Top 5, Fine Dining, Food & Wine, Joburg, Restaurants

6 Cool Places in SA to take a Tourist

We’ve deviated from the format for the first time here because, well there are just too many awesome places to see and experience in SA. So, this week we’re giving you a Top 6 and it isn’t really a ‘top’ per se because the range of activities and places we looked at were just too broad. So, based on some feedback from our users, some research and some inter-office banter, we give you this selection of six exciting, interesting, beautiful or adventurous places in SA that we think you should always take your tourist friends.

Durban:

1. Moses Mabhida Stadium
For many Durbanites, Moses Mabhida Stadium is the landmark they feel most proud of. It’s magnificent design and monolithic structure have forever altered the skyline of the city and never fail to leave people impressed. Durban watched as the neglected stadium precinct was transformed into a beautiful and vibrant hub for the World Cup and today, it remains a reminder of that magical time when so many people fell in love with Durban and her people.

2. The Roma Revolving Restaurant
Earlier this week we reviewed this historic gem and we were reminded that it is one of only 31 revolving restaurants in the world. Not many visitors will have experienced the sensation of slowly turning while enjoying their meal and an epic view of the whole city. The Skybar on the roof alone is worth the visit. It’s a magical place to experience the city at night and watch as the ships steer in and out of the massive harbour.

Cape Town:

3. Table Mountain
Yes, it’s an obvious choice and most probably one of the reasons that they are visiting Cape Town in the first place, but there’s a reason why it was recently voted one of the 7 natural wonders of the world! There are so many different ways to experience Table Mountain too. As a climber or walker, you can get up close and personal with her slopes. For the less adventurous you can hop on the cable car and ride right up, then dine with friends in one of the most unique settings in the world.

4. Groot Constantia
As a visitor to the Cape, a winery has to be a top priority on your to-do list and this is one of the oldest wine farms in the country – not to mention a renowned historical monument and one of the finest examples of Cape Dutch architecture in existence. The name Constantia is linked to some of SA’s most famous wines and they continue to produce superior quality wines that are distributed all over the globe.

Johannesburg/ Soweto

5. The Apartheid Museum
It may not be the happiest place for a visitor to go to, but they’ll certainly learn a lot about the culture of the people of South Africa from this place. Haunting and fascinating, it stands as a bricks and mortar reminder that South Africans are willing to acknowledge the past rather than hide it away. As time passes the importance of this museum will only grow, with younger generations needing to be reminded of the mistakes of the past.

6. Chaf Pozi
No trip to Soweto or Jozi should be complete without a weekend visit to Chef Pozi. At the base of the now disused cooling towers of the Orlando power station, it’s one of the most unique places you could ever drink a beer. Pick you chisa nyama from the in-house butcher before you send it off to be braaied, then share your meal African-style with your mates. All the while, the music from some of the city’s hottest house DJ’s will be pumping and people will be spontaneously dancing to the rhythms. If you hear screams, its because people are leaping off the massive towers above you on the bungee swing!

Filed under: Top 5, Arts & Culture, Cape Town, Entertainment, Joburg, South Africa, Travel & Tourism

Top 5 Family-Friendly Wine Estates

Heading out for a weekend of delicious food & wine-tasting in the Cape Winelands can be a thoroughly relaxing experience. If you have a brood of small children in tow, that might not be the case though. We did some digging and came up with these 5 wineries that will provide both parents & youngens with an experience to remember.

1. Warwick Wine Estate

Warwick is made by family for family. Kids can run wild at Warwick with jungle gyms, sand pits and paddling pools, plus they are accommodated with cute picnic options tailored for little people. For moms and dads, there’s the ‘Gourmet Picnic’ filled to the brim with decadent delights.

 

2. Allee Bleue

Family-Friendly doesn’t have to exclude classy! The Allee Bleue Bistro serves quality contemporary cuisine using the best local produce, which you can enjoy in peace, while the kids frolick just within sight in the Kids Corner, which includes a jungle gym, jumping castle, trampoline and other fun activities that will have them jumping for joy. They also have fun kids food options.

3. Groot Constantia

One of South Africa’s most renowned wineries and a cultural-historic landmark, there’s plenty to do at Groot Constantia from food & wine to arts & crafts and then there’s Jonkershuis Restaurant. Dine alfresco overlooking False Bay or in the courtyard under the vines. Enjoy your leisurely lunch while the kids run free.

4. Tokara

The food, wine and environment are pristine, but that doesn’t mean kids aren’t welcome! At Tokara Delicatessen, there’s even a stylish playground with a treehouse/jungle gym, sandpit and swings. The perfect place for a breakfast with a view or a summery light lunch with friends.

5. Spier

Spier is a wonderland of fun and relaxing activities, complete with a kids favourite: animals! Little ones can run riot while you simply loll on your picnic blanket, or you can take them on walks and to visit the birds of prey and cheetah. Enjoy fine dining at Eight or wonder around the Craft Market.

Filed under: Top 5, Babies & Kids, Cape Town, Food & Wine, Restaurants, Travel & Tourism, Winelands

Top 5 Sushi Spots in Durban

Yoh! Durbanites seem very conflicted about their sushi… Never have we had such mixed reactions to a poll before! The number one spot was a given, but after that, things got messy and chopsticks and wasabi started flying all over the show…

The last two picks were equally described as the best and worst venues in the city, but there was no denying their notoriety.

1. Green Mango

Described as ‘authentic’, this charming Thai-fusion gem in Morningside is hands-down Durban’s most popular sushi spot. Chef Watchara is said to be a master of innovation and his delicate morsels of fishy flavour are reasonably priced and excellently portioned. The ruddy parking lot of Avondale Centre aint the most picturesque of locations, but the longevity of this restaurant proves the food is totally worth it.

2. Daruma

There is no better Japanese cuisine in Durban and according to local rumour, Daruma is also the place to go for top quality sushi. Situated on the beachfront inside the Elangeni Hotel, it’s equally famous for tepanyaki, which very few places do in the area. The menu is pricey but the sushi is said to be unique, fresh and abundant!

3. Wodka

Wodka is a little-known bistro on the harbour side of town. The neighbourhood is an unlikely one for a fine-dining restaurant but compliments this industrial-chic space. Their gourmet sushi can be enjoyed as a starter or to compliment their extensive range of vodkas! If you’re looking for unusual sushi combinations and quality produce, Wodka should feature on your radar – although you’ll need to bring some bucks in order to really indulge.

4. Speak Sushi

We’ve heard excellent and not-so-excellent reviews of this Durban North sushi bar. It has weathered the storms though and seems to be putting up a fight against its’ nextdoor neighbour, who’s in fifth place. We’re told to expect consistent quality food and service and great half price deals, but don’t expect anything too creative or unusual.

5. Bite Your Tongue

Equally adored and reviled, this spot is packed most days of the week, but especially on their half price days. The service may be dismal, but the Tokyo Rolls certainly aren’t. Neither are the cucumber rolls or salmon roses. Loyalists say the sushi is always worth the wait!

Filed under: Top 5, Durban, Food & Wine, Restaurants, Sushi

Top 5 Vegetarian Restaurants in Joburg

Vegetarians often feel left out in the cold when it comes to dining out. Very few restaurants cater specifically for vegetarians and those that do often don’t put much thought into their veggie options. We felt it would be a great idea to take note of those venues that are producing top quality meat-free nosh and, at the same time, point the vegetarians in their general direction!

1.Shayona

The web is abuzz with compliments for this simple diner in Mayfair. Run by devotees of the Hindu Guru Swarmi Narayan, you’ll often find Hare Krishnas frequenting this spot to indulge in their wide range of vegetarian curries, pastas and pizzas, not to mention the sweetmeats they are famous for!

2. Greenside Cafe

Greenside Cafe’s name is almost synonymous with vegetarian and vegan cuisine in Johannesburg. This is food prepared with love, not only for the ingredients but for the environment. The cafe has won the ‘Best Vegetarian Menu’ twice in a row in the People’s Choice Awards and it’s said the non-vegetarians are just as crazy about the food as their counterparts!

3. Gingko

Apart from the bustle of the city in peaceful Parkview you can truly relax in the natural space & enjoy a wholesome meal. Nourishment is the core focus of their menu, but there is a real element of artistry in their preparation & presentation. You can feel comfortable eating in the knowledge that they are doing all they can to limit their environmental impact. Read the story behind Gingko here.

4. Fresh Earth Food Store

Health & sustainability are once again top priority at this quaint Emmarentia shop and cafe. It’s said that chef Matthew Ballenden can transform the most dour sounding ingredients into chic, mouth-watering deliciacies like raw chocolate mousse cake, made with avocado! The mezze platters and meat-free burgers are also popular!

5. In the Raw

A unique additions to the health food scene in Joburg, In the Raw is aims to make 80 percent of it’s dishes raw, with a few less raw options. The idea behind it is one that’s been gaining in popularity worldwide in recent years – that raw food & juices are the ultimate way to ingest maximum nutrients directly into your bloodstream. Expect fun combinations of fresh, natural ingredients like veggie sushi handrolls & flaxseed base pizza.

Filed under: Top 5, Food & Wine, Health & Fitness, Joburg, Restaurants, Vegetarian

Top 5 Steak Restaurants in Cape Town

How one eats their steak is a fairly personal choice for people, but not many people can questions exceptional quality meat that’s been prepared with the utmost care. That’s what you expect from a truly great steakhouse. Judging from the results of our online research, there are several Cape Town restaurants that serve a killer cut of meat, but it was these five that just kept coming up!

1. Hussar Grill – Rondebosch

Though Hussar was an undeniable favourite, there was some debate over which restaurant in particular was the top contender, but it was the flagship store of Rondebosch that ultimately took the prize, just behind Green Point. It seems to be a perfect combination of warm ambience, friendly, personal service, top quality meat and excellent wine that keeps people coming back to this Cape Town institution. The chateaubriand and hog ribs come highly recommended and some say the steaks are so good that you should eat them bare with no accompaniments.

2. Nelson’s Eye

Another mainstay of Cape Town dining culture, they say nothing has changed in this restaurant for last 40 years it’s been around. Sure, that applies to the decor, but the same goes for the quality food and old-school friendly service. The meat at Nelsons is super grade, grained beef that is wet-aged for up to 21 days.

3. Cattle Baron – Tableview Blouberg

It may not be fine dining but for many, the Cattle Baron franchise is the ultimate steakhouse. Once again, debates raged, but Tableview was a stand out. Fans of Cattle Baron rave about the chateaubriand and the wide selection of preparations and sauces on the menu and their hearty portions are a hit.

4. Headquarters

You can only order one thing at HQ and that is steak! That means that they do everything in their power to provide a meaty meal that will make your mouth water! HQ addicts recommend… the steak, salad and fries garnished with a little live music! It’s a unique concept housed in an unusual location and most people comment on the warm and festive atmosphere.

5. Belthazar

Belthazar is all about indulging in the finer things in life – magnificent wine, decadent seafood, luxurious cheeses and melt-in-your-mouth aged Karan beef. Though the Waterfront location is a bit touristy, it’s still a great spot for an outdoor lunch in Cape Town Summer. The service has been described as exceptional and the wines are a journey unto themselves.

Filed under: Top 5, Cape Town, Food & Wine, Meat, Restaurants

Top 5 Durban Bunny Chows

While we fully understand that someone’s bunny chow preferences can be a very personal thing, we also know that there are certain hallowed spaces in Durban that are regarded as bunny royalty.
Not leaving things to chance, we assembled the office bunny experts to make certain that we didn’t lead you into the bunny badlands. These are our undisputed Durban Bunny Kings! If you’re keen on checking out the rest of the options in Durbs, have a look at our Kluppa Durban Bunny Collection. 

1. Goundens

Though it is certainly not the easiest place to locate, it’s been said that bunny-lovers travel from all over the world to sink their teeth into one of their mutton monsters. Another reason why they are so popular is their man-sized portions. Apparently they also make a mean biryani.

2. Hollywood Bets

It seems an unlikely place to find a killer chow, but this venue is one of Durban’s best-kept bunny secrets. Tucked away in the heart of Springfield, it’s not too difficult to find (the bright purple walls should help) and you can even place a few sneaky bets while you wait for your mutton one. We know chefs that only eat their bunnies here.

3. House of Curries

The best thing about House of Curries is that you can order a mega-bunny at 3am if you’re so inclined. Neatly ensconced in the centre of the Florida Rd party scene, The sparse bar is packed to the rafters most days of the week with students, locals & tourists all looking for a piece of bunny or giant roti action.

4. Govenders

One of Durban’s oldest and most legendary take-aways, the fact that it’s still going strong is proof that their bunnies remain magnificent and their customers loyal. Govenders curry has been described as ‘serious’ so no bunny novices please!

 

5. Brittania Hotel

With it’s attractive colonial architecture, the listed building stands out from the rest of the neighbourhood. Though the venue has undergone a massive makeover, the one thing that hasn’t changed is the quality of the bunny chows. On weekends you’ll see the pavement overflowing with cars, their owners hungrily headed for the cafe for a taste of the local flavour!

Filed under: Top 5, Durban, Food & Wine, Restaurants

Top 5 Midlands Wedding Venues

The Midlands is one of the most popular places in the country to get married. There are dozens of venues ranging from country-chic to bushveld-glam and farmhouse-cool. We asked some of our Facebook and Twitter connections which venues they thought provided the most picturesque venues with top-quality service. Though there are some venues that are extremely popular, there were others we felt were hidden gems that deserved more recognition. These are our final picks!

1. Hartford House

A slick & professional service in a 5-star environment is what you can expect at Hartford House. No detail will be forgotten and your food will taste like it’s been handcrafted by golden cherubs. Brides can get pampered in the luxurious spa without a care and wait patiently for her dream wedding to materialize around her. It’s certainly not a budget option, but if you’re looking for the best of the Midlands, you’ve come to the right place.

2. Granny Mouse’s Country House

Granny Mouse has hosted more weddings than they could probably count! Over the years it has been a destination of choice for hundreds of brides and a regular holiday hideaway for even more locals and tourists. It’s recent makeover means brides now can get all the quaint, cottage qualities of the old venue along with a healthy dose of modern chic. The food is legendary and the spa, a serene oasis, perfect for a flustered bride.

3. Cranford Country Lodge

Say your vows amongst the massive Bluegum trees, on the gazebo overlooking the glassy dam, or let the sun stream in on your ceremony in the stunning chapel. If you’re aiming for a warm, inviting, farm-style experience, Cranford ticks all boxes! The barn-like reception venue has a historic air and a cosy feeling, despite being able to hold over 100 guests. Read our review here to hear more thought on Cranford.

4. Mendola

There are pluses to being a fairly new venue. Although there may not be a lot of publicity about this venue, it appears to be a hidden gem in the Midlands wedding scene. Conveniently located in Hilton, it’s far enough out of the city, but close enough to make travel easy. Stylish and elegant, expect lush vintage decor and personalised service for weddings up to 100 guests.

5. The Windmills

It’s the lake-side chapel that really sells this popular venue. Perfect for sunset vows, it’s a uniquely designed space to begin your married life. The banquet hall seats up to 180 and the venue sleeps 60 guests, so it’s a great space for a mid-sized celebration. Understated elegance is the order of the day.

Filed under: Top 5, Accommodation, Food & Wine, Hotel, KZN, Luxury, Wedding

Top 5 Luxury Boutique Hotels in Johannesburg

In the bustling, non-stop chaos of Johannesburg, there are pockets of tranquility, havens of luxury, where you can escape and completely forget the demands of the outside world… These are Joburg’s top boutique hotels.

1. The Residence

In just over a year, this small, but popular Houghton hotel has managed to find itself ranked as the top hotel in the city on Tripadvisor. Guests have showered the venue with praise for creating an environment that is both opulent and inviting, classy and cosy. With individually designed suites, a plush spa and gorgeous rooftop bar, there’s really no reason to leave the comfort of this delightful home away from home.

2. The Peech Hotel

A chic and eco-friendly option for travellers that still enjoy a bit of luxury and exclusivity. There’s a reason why it’s been nominated as South Africa’s top Boutique Hotel for the last 4 years. Guests love the cosy garden bungalows which encircle the peaceful garden and the venue has received rave reviews for its’ bistro-style food and professional hospitality.

3. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa

With its’ picturesque setting of manicured lawns & colourful flower beds, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had teleported to the English countryside. Fairlawns is an award-winning hotel that is just as perfect for intimate events like small weddings and parties as it is a peaceful retreat for business travellers and couples looking for a romantic break.

4.The Saxon Boutique Hotel

From the chic Afrique decor to the spacious suites and welcoming atmosphere, staying at The Saxon is a unique experience. Visitors to this Sandton oasis have praised the top-notch service and delicious food. The added facilities like a fitness centre, cinema, spa and heated pool are added bonuses.

5. 10 2nd Ave, Houghton Estate

Centrally located but hidden in the quieter side of Houghton, what was once a private home is now a cosy guesthouse that incorporates personal homey touches. Houghton Estate has been described as comfortable and friendly with a garden most people can only dream of. The food, service and decor also come highly recommended.

Filed under: Top 5, Accommodation, Hotel, Joburg, Luxury, Travel & Tourism