Cape Town - It was a cold, wet night. The last thing I wanted to do was go out and get caught in the rain. But the promise of mouth-watering food and excellent service was luring my senses, but mostly my tummy.
And it was worth the drive to Tokai to Bistro Sixteen82, which is situated on the beautiful Steenberg Estate. I’m sure it look gorgeous during the day, but that night all I saw was row upon row of vineyards.
To be honest, the only thing I knew of Steenberg was its well-known hotel and world-class golf course, but that’s just a small part of what the estate is.
Bistro Sixteen82 is an institution in these parts. Named after the year that Steenberg was established, it’s grown from a bistro-type restaurant to a now tapas and dining establishment. First opened in 2009, the restaurant shares the same area as the estate’s winery, which provides a focal point and interesting conversation subject when entering the building.
You won’t find any stiff upper lip dining here. Expect a warm welcome from the host and an even warmer atmosphere, especially during those cold winter evenings. The decor is minimalist, but still manages to maintain that intimate look and feel you’d expect from a bistro. Think industrial chic, and that’s more or less the look that they’re going for. I’m also told that the terrace is a great setting for those summer evening sundowner. But back to the food!
The restaurant prides itself in seasonal produce and inventive dishes. So, I guess the best way to experience this is with their tapas. They’re currently running a winter tapa special R300 for two people sharing. It includes five tasting dishes off their special tapas menu and a glass of white or red Klein Steenberg wine. If you’re not a wine drinker like me, you can opt to replace the wine with something off their soft drinks menu.
The angel fish springrolls were a pleasant surprise - not dry or too soggy - the spicy harrissa mayo added a special zing which made me want even more. The Gambas are also worth a mention - succulent prawns dipped in lemon butter and given an extra kick with chilli garlic.
One thing I must mention is that the tapas menu is only available till 7pm, but walk-ins are welcomed until 8:30pm when the kitchen closes. Although the restaurant was half-empty when we got there, I reckon the miserable weather had something to do with it.
Bistro Sixteen82 makes eating a pleasurable experience. From the attentive waiting staff, to the delicious food, I know they haven’t seen the last of me. Oh, and their prices aren’t too bad either.
More info
Tapas menu available from 4:30pm to 7:30pm
Offer available till August 31, 2015
Five tapas of the day pre-selected by Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin
www.steenbergfarm.com/bistro1682
Michelle Adonis, IOL