Spasie, usually stylised as [spasie] is a constantly evolving restaurant, private event space and creative hub that puts the spotlight on top South African chefs.
The establishment hosts a number of innovative dining and art experiences. Whether it’s Pocket Watch Wednesdays, Chef’s Table, Sunday Brunch, or drinks at the new Upstairs, the dynamic offering is ever-changing. We decided to start our adventure with a Saturday night dinner soirée at Spasie Underground.
When you reach the venue on Church Street in the Bo-Kaap, you’d never know you were in the right place unless you had a booking. There’s a certain degree of mystery involved, as the gentleman standing outside is the only hint that you’ve found it. If your name‘s on the list, you’re in!
Spasie is the Afrikaans word for space, and from the moment you enter, you realise that it holds magical possibilities. The warehouse-type room came alive with warmth despite the chilly autumn air outside. I accredited the heat to a combination of tens of candles burning, the energy that emanated from the crowd, and the upbeat jazz tunes that fuelled the atmosphere.
Upon arrival, we grabbed some cocktails from the bar and viewed the artworks on display such as ceramics by Eleven Hundred and paintings by Tanja De Beer before settling down for dinner.
The communal tables reinforce the social and interactive ambience. The shared novel experience, the comfortable environment along with the food and art are great conversation starters. Guests share either the central 16–20 seater wooden table or one of four six-seaters surrounding it. The sound of chatter in English and foreign tongues resounding throughout the locale indicated that connections were being made and stories exchanged.
The evening presented Silwood trained local culinary artist, Chef Jess Bunn. The sensational three-course set menu with optional wine pairings meant diners could socialise without the pressure of ordering. Sticking to the friendly and interactive theme, Jess darted in and out of the open-plan kitchen to mingle with guests.
![[spasie] underground](http://www.capetownetc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/spasie-food.jpg)
With no strict schedule, we had the comfort of choosing when each course arrived; we savoured our time and enjoyed dinner at a leisurely pace. Our friendly and attentive waiter took care of us and ensured that our glasses were full.
Spasie Underground has struck the perfect balance between a relaxed social atmosphere and an intimate dining encounter that makes one feel special. Keep your ear to the ground, your eye on the Underground, and dive into the playground that is Spasie.
May 2016 at [spasie]
– Saturday 7 May from 6 pm: Chef Jess Bunn
– Sunday 8 May 10:30 am to 1 pm: Sunday Mother’s Day Brunch – Chef Jess Bunn + bottomless bubbles and a DIY Bloody Mary Bar
– Upstairs on Bree Street is currently hosting the OneK exhibition – Top local and international street and urban art by by Faith47, Shepard Fairey, Asha Zero, Skullboy, KnowHope and more.
– Thursday 19 May and Friday 20 May: Chef’s Table – Chef Arabella Parkinson.
Spasie is taking a break for the month of May but will be hosting several pop-ups, exhibitions, dinners and tastings. Sign up for the newsletter and follow on Facebook and Twitter for the latest information.
OF NOTE
Where [spasie] Underground, 97 Church Street, CBD
Cost Depends on event, please make an enquiry
Contact +27 21 422 1492, [email protected], www.spasie.co
Photography courtesy