There is nothing better than a glass of crisp white wine or a G&T to ease in to the weekend. We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting a watering hole in Cape Town, and it’s easy to opt for an old favourite… but there is also something appealing about scouting for that new kid on the block and seeing how they measure up.
Having driven past Chalk & Cork on Kloof Street a number of times I finally popped in with a couple of friends on Friday. The waitress was warm, chatty and just attentive enough to ensure we never wanted for anything, without hovering over us all evening.
The minimalist décor is simple, slightly rustic and has it’s own flair, which is always a lovely reminder that you’re in a neighbourhood wine and tapas bar as opposed to a chain restaurant. Opt to sit on bar stools as you walk in, outside in a courtyard bathed in dappled shade, or make your way to the upstairs section where wooden tables, white napkins and elegant wine glasses set the scene for the evening.
The tapas style menu follows suit, with a few quirky options that you may not have tried before. We opted for the olives and crispy pork scratchings, which were cooked to perfection and served with a slightly sweet, completely delicious dip.
The menu changes frequently, but the ricotta salad with avo, pear and pecan nuts; salmon ceviche with avocado mousse and grapefruit; and citrus cheesecake are high on my list to try – so another visit is in the pipeline. They also have a selection of wood fired pizzas, with both original and cauliflower bases on offer; as well as a breakfast menu and Bootlegger coffee available from 09h00.
It’s definitely one to add your list, and somewhere that may well become one of those familiar spots you frequent throughout the summer season.
Opening times:
9am – 6pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
9am – 10pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday
51 Kloof Street | 021 422 5822 | info@chalkandcork.co.za