#HighburyHearsYou – At Cape Town Etc, we are passionate about getting local restaurants back and booming in business. As part of our #HighburyHearsYou initiative, we’re dishing out the deets on some incredible restaurants in and around town.
Nestled along the peaceful waters of the Victoria Basin and Quay lies Habour House – a sophisticated restaurant that manifests itself into the perfect serene escape amongst the buzzing V&A Waterfront atmosphere. The restaurant boasts a Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that’s presented through an elegant, fine dining experience.
Each year, Harbour House follows a tradition of bringing something absolutely special for winter, and their execution of this year’s Winter Menu is no different to prior occasions, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Micayla Vellai. The time, thought and effort put into crafting this printed masterpiece screams hearty, comfort… and winter.
This brilliant concept not only takes the weather into consideration but also caters for the needs of what locals and visitors would enjoy eating during this cold season (with a fine dining twist, of course). And these ideas all reflect itself in each of the three courses.
With each bite, the myriad of bold, wonderful flavours gracefully performed pirouettes as I savoured the moment of the most delicious food against a stunning Capetonian backdrop – the perfect blend of scenery meets fine dining. And after being welcomed with a glass of bubbly, I knew that I was in for a dining experience like no other.
Brand chef, Odette Olivier described the Winter Menu in one word – “nostalgia,” and she was not mistaken! As I sat and immersed myself in the experience of enjoying these delicious, hearty meals, all I could think of was home. The hospitality of the waitrons and staff reminded me of my Grandma’s warm hugs, while the beautifully plated meals reminded me of being huddled up under the covers on a cold winter’s night – that’s the type of warm feeling these meals offered.
The way these cooks have managed to recreate warm, wintery, comfort foods and present it on a plate so elegantly was certainly a reflection of the reputation that Harbour House has managed to maintain.
The starters were refined and sophisticated while blending in different elements to create a stunning dish, and the taste and presentation of the Smoked Salmon Fish Cakes were a taste of paradise if you will. Crispy, with an amazing flavourful filling, a food-lover’s dream.
The main course alternated between seafood, fish and meaty goodness. Of course, I opted for the Pan Fried Hake with sweet roasted fennel, baby potatoes, green beans, red peppers, smoked paprika aioli in shellfish bisque – a refreshing twist on the fish dishes that are often found in and around Cape Town. This meal was filling, comforting and I was this close to hugging the dish for bringing that much comfort, (but having to adhere to Covid-19 regulations), I allowed the fork and knife to do the hugging on my behalf instead.
Another popular choice on the menu was the Slow Braised Oxtail topped with gremolata and served on mashed potato. Talk about a hearty meal! So if you’re a meat-lover, this would be the ideal winter meal for you.
Once that sweet tooth kicked in, there was no going back as my taste buds roared in anticipation of dessert. As if the classic creme brulee could have gotten any better, Harbour House managed to add their own finesse to this creamy delight to make it one of the best I’ve ever had. As the spoon hits the crackling surface, the creamy flavours bursts forth to welcome you with open arms by saying, “welcome to winter”.
The Best Bar One Cheesecake is exactly what its name says – the best. When chocolate meets cheesecake, you know you’re in for double the treat, and this is precisely what it was.
The live entertainment was certainly such a treat to enjoy as the soulful voice of the performer filled the atmosphere with a relaxing presence while the fireplace and heaters are perfectly located to ensure that you remain toasty and warm during your time at Harbour House.
Harbour House certainly continues its status as a favourite dining destination, and I can see why! From the warm and welcoming presence to the delectable Winter Menu, each box was ticked and each expectation was fulfilled.
To experience this amazing Winter Menu for yourself on a night out when you desperately need a warm, comforting meal, visit their website at https://www.harbourhouse.co.za/ or click here to see what they have in store for you this winter.
Reservations can be made by calling: 021 418 4744 / 021 418 4748 or reach out via email for dinner like you’ve never experienced before: [email protected].
Time: Monday – Sunday (11am-9pm)
Location: Quay Four, Ground Floor, V&A Waterfront
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Picture/s: Micayla Vellai