Cyril Ramaphosa surprised the nation in his most recent address, as he extended South Africa’s Level 4 lockdown, but allowed restaurants to reopen under strict new limits. As of the 12th of July 2021, only 50 people or fewer may be allowed into eateries in order to maintain a 1.5-meter distance between customers, and if the venue is too small, no more than 50% of its full capacity is permitted.
The sale of alcohol is still prohibited, and restaurant owners and managers who fail to comply with the new regulations face a fine or imprisonment for up to six months. Currently, the new regulations are in place until 25 July 2021.
While the new restrictions bring some relief for the restaurant industry, it remains more important than ever that we support our local restaurants whenever and however we can during this difficult time.
In response to the recent restrictions, Cape Town local, Kelly Kaimowitz launched Push the Produce – an innovative project that helps local restaurants sell their surplus inventory to the public, to minimise waste and alleviate the impact of the lockdown on the restaurant industry.
Push the Project provides a platform for restaurants to list and sell their stock, and offers an opportunity for the public to help their favourite eateries during this trying time, along with the staff and suppliers they support, by purchasing groceries through them.
“This way, even if restaurants are able to maintain their business through the take-away sales, they are now able to continue placing their full stock orders with their suppliers and allow the public to support the ailing industry,” says Kelly.
Currently, the growing Facebook page is appealing to local restaurants, asking that they list their available inventories and contact details so that the public can offer their assistance. Push the Produce also suggests that suppliers reach out to their clients with this idea, to help maintain semi-regular operation.
If ordering in is more your style, here is a collection of our favourite local restaurants in the Green Point and Oranje-Kloof areas. Consider supporting them if you can.
Big Dog Café, Kloof Street
Conceptualised along three pillars: Coffee, food and design. Big Dog Café offers excellent coffee and an interesting menu. If you haven’t tried their Turkish Egg & Quinoa Bowl, now’s your chance.
Call them on 079 186 7383 to order and collect.
Molten Toffee, Kloof Street
This classic café sums up the Capetonian vibe perfectly and serves up some of the best toasties in town. Perfect for a quick lunch break.
Call them on 083 703 1162 to order and collect.
Our Local, Kloof Street
Our Local’s fresh and flavourful food truly transports you to another world. Plus, you can order a jar or two of their famous pasta sauces along with your meal for a quick and delicious mid-week pasta.
Order on Mr D.
Toni’s, Kloof Street
Toni’s does Portuguese food to perfection. Their Mozambican prawns are unmatched, and their peri peri sauce will have you hooked. Plus, they’re offering some great lockdown specials.
Order on Mr D.
Ground Art Caffe, De Waterkant
At Ground Art Caffe, the coffee is treated with the same respect as the art found hanging on its walls. Their unique Africa Arabica coffee is naturally sweet, and their menu focuses on ingredients of local and European origin.
Call them on 021 418 1331 to order and collect.
Café Charles, De Waterkant
Café Charles is De Waterkant’s hidden gem, neatly tucked away under the shade of an over-100-year-old tree. Their crisp oven-baked croissants are what dreams are made of – treat yourself to a Sunday brunch in bed.
Call them on 021 409 2500 to order and collect.
