It’s not often that you find an eatery that offers an array of food options at a good price. So when you do, it’s difficult to decide whether or not to divulge your newfound secret with anyone.
That was exactly our thoughts when we first stepped inside the modern interior of Ginja restaurant by Newmark Hotels. With amazing views no matter where you’re seated, the space utilises organic textures of wood, stone and textiles alongside lighting that adds both ambience and art.
But it’s not just the decor that will get you drooling. Executive Chef Stefan Muller plates up fresh food with a decidedly South African touch. From breakfasts and charcuterie to slow-roasted lamb and gourmet sandwiches, the limited menu has wide appeal. What’s more, while many of the dishes are contemporary favourites, they all taste vaguely familiar and localised.
What really got us going, though, was the affordable price tags for well-plated, filling food. Here, there are no pretences – and no need for starters with an all-day menu offering that will make it difficult to decide on just one dish. The Pantagonian Calamari, grilled or deep fried and served with rustic fries or rice, will soon become a favourite while the pumpkin and polenta fries is a thing of pure magic. If you prefer food bred on shore, the chargrilled Karan beef or slow-roasted duck pasta is a good choice too.
But wait, there’s more! Although the menu only cites four desserts, all of them are decadent and large enough to share. Our pick is the deep fried chocolate (yep, you read that right) with coffee semi-fredo, a coffee-infused ice cream, accompanied by fresh fruit. Temper your sweet tooth with a cup of delicious java by Native Coffee Roasters, which is situated inside the restaurant. Or, if you’d rather skip the caffeine, Ginja’s menu features an extensive list of fresh health smoothies and raw juices too.
From an on-the-go breakfast or coffee run to a dining experience par excellence (the service is amazing and every patron is treated like a guest of honour), Ginja offers the perfect excuse for date night, family time or even sundowners with your mates.
OF NOTE
When Daily 6:30 am – 11 pm
Where Waterfront Pierhead, Noble Square, V&A Waterfront
Cost Avg. R200-250 pp
Contact +27 21 419 6677, [email protected], ginjarestaurant.co.za
Photography Courtesy images