Finding a good place to eat can be challenging, particularly when you’re with a group of mates. One person is in the mood for burgers while the next wants sushi. For moments like these, we’ve found the perfect spot to satisfy most cravings, no matter how diverse they are. Vivante Restaurant in Cavendish Square has an easygoing atmosphere, wonderful décor and a diverse menu.
Located on the lower level of the mall, beneath the food court, Vivante offers seating both in outside in the mall and inside the restaurant. The interior is nice and bright with hanging light fixtures, comfortable chairs and little plants on the tables that create a relaxed atmosphere, accentuated by the delightful music that plays softly in the background. There are two bars – one coffee, one sushi – with an impressive menu of favourite dishes. Then there’s the leather-bound regular menu that, according to manager Patrick Dube, is purposefully diverse so as to cater for the large clientele of the mall.
So far, it’s worked well. There has been great interest in all their offerings and with a food philosophy that shies towards fresh ingredients, using little to no preservatives and avoiding mass-produced food, it’s easy to see why.
For breakfast and lunch, enjoy a sandwiches, wraps and flatbread, or dig into a simple yet delicious salad like the Go Green Baby that contains micro greens, broccoli, avo and feta topped with sesame seed and honey mustard dressing on the side. If you want something more substantial, either for lunch or dinner, there are burgers, steak, pork belly, curry and a hearty chicken pot pie that looks incredible.
For dishes to share, try their tapas menu that has a real Mediterranean feel and boasts olives, crumbed calamari and aubergine chips. The true winners of this offering, though, are the sweet bacon-wrapped chicken rolls, beef teriyaki and short rib beef croquet served with a light mustard. For dessert, there are a number of tasty cakes and tarts, including some sourced from the popular Velvet Cake Co.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between shopping or in the mood for a long leisurely lunch, Vivante has got you covered.
OF NOTE
When Monday to Sunday 8 am – 5 pm (Until 9 pm on Friday and Saturdays)
Where Shop 30, Cavendish Square, 1 Dreyer Street, Claremont
Contact +27 21 671 7116, [email protected], vivante-livinglife.co.za
Photography Annzra Denita, Vivante