Cape Town’s seen its fair share of restaurants, bars and clubs but its newest spot, just off the beaten path of Bree Street, serves up something a little different.
TRE (meaning ‘three’ in Italian) Steampunk Club, Restaurant & Bar is all that its name suggests – with an added dash of eccentricity. The inspiration behind restaurateur Justin Whitaker’s endeavour lies deep in the English steampunk movement and literature, such as Around the World in Eighty Days and Sherlock Holmes. This is evident in five-metre tall artworks covering the walls – a hot-air balloon blowing against a sky of cream, and Professor Moriarty and Sherlock Holmes facing off in profile from across the room – as well as decadent loungers in hues of red contrasting with 19th century , a live swing and jazz band, and entertainment by fire performers that wouldn’t look out of place in the dessert during AfrikaBurn.
The food itself is in stark contrast to the theme of the restaurant, albeit catering to the more modern diet. Think gourmet European cuisine with a modern twist, including Banting and vegan-friendly options, all made from fresh produce sourced from the Cape Winelands. The varied menu doesn’t detract from the drinks either – from creative cocktails (like the decadent cotton candy, gin and ginger beer) to champagne, craft beer and a selection of local wines, patrons will be spoilt for choice.
Whether you need a quick bite before diving in the culture of First Thursdays or are looking for a new watering hole, TRE offers up a little something for everyone – all steeped in ’90s-style machinations.
OF NOTE
Were 142 Bree Street, Unit 3, Corner of Bree and Leeuwen Streets, CBD
Contact 084 787 1111, [email protected], facebook.com/pg/TRERestaurantAndBar
Photography Courtesy images
Michelle Smit jou tipe vibe