If you feel like a break from the uber trendy eateries of Bree Street, then head to Rua. Located in the unlikely environs of Wembley Square – nestled just behind Buitenkant Street – chef, owner and serial entrepreneur, Zain Muller, has combined tasteful décor with an impressive menu and a more than satisfying bar list. With the abundance of tapas places popping up all over the city, it’s wonderful to see a fresh twist on this type of establishment.
Rua has an exciting menu that will keep everyone happy – even if you’re Banting
The menu is inventive, well-varied, delicious and, most importantly, original. Besides their tapas (perfect as a meal or to nibble on while deciding on what you’re going to eat next), there are starters, sandwiches, breakfast, flatbreads, substantial mains and hearty salads. And if you’re following the Banting diet, Rua has you covered – you’d be a fool to go home without trying the zucchini “noodle” pasta salad, served with a miso dressing and chunks of the creamiest goat’s cheese you’ll ever taste.
It’s near impossible to eat everything you want to in one visit
Rua is the kind of place you need to return to time and time again simply to be able to try everything on their menu. The vegetable spring rolls (R35) are generously filled and the tenderstem broccoli tapas (R40) are steamed to perfection and served with plum sauce. For mains, the mushroom tikkas (R85) are comforting, delicious and not only Banting friendly, but vegan friendly too. The calamari (R105) is crunchy and well seasoned and is paired perfectly with onion rings and hand cut fries. As sated as you might be, it’s hard not to order their crème brulée (R45) that is light and subtly-flavoured with cardamom. It’s all the more enticing thanks to the beautiful ceramic dish it’s served on.
Wine, draught beer, cocktails – they do it all
When it comes to the booze, an extremely important ingredient in any meal, you won’t be left wanting at Rua. Besides the attractive wine list, there are cocktails – anywhere that makes an Aperol spritz gets bonus points – and even the renowned KZN Nottingham Road selection of beers, and on tap, no less. Combine all the above with great service, a chilled vibe, several widescreen TVs for watching the rugby and you’ve got a recipe for a perfect evening.
Want a change from watching rugby at the pub? Head to Rua and get two burgers, two Devil’s Peak draughts and biltong for just R100.
Happy Hour is between 3-6pm: get a free tapas dish with any draught or cocktail.
OF NOTE
Where Rua, Wembley Square, Solan Road, Gardens
When Daily 7 am – 11 pm
Cost Menu
Contact +27 21 461 4590
Images courtesy Rua