The end of my undergrad at UCT is approaching at a fast rate and I have come to the realisation that there are so many hidden gems in Cape Town that I am yet to discover. Seeing that I only have about a month left in this beautiful city, I have made a point of visiting hidden treasures which I may have over looked during my ‘Hey Days’ in my 1st and 2nd years of varsity.
I recently visited Dear Me on Longmarket Street and It was quite obvious that I was a first time visitor from the minute I walked in as I was unable to hide my enthusiasm about the décor and ambience. The menus written on the blackboards, the green accents, the recipe books on the bookshelves and over all inviting feel of the place made me feel welcome. I went during the week so it wasn’t as busy as I predict it would be on weekends, so I was able to take it all in without feeling overwhelmed by too many people.
What caught my attention immediately was the organic sense of the part brasserie, part pantry. The flower cut-outs and earthy tones give it away that one has entered an organic and place of ultimate zen.
There is a wide variety of delectable dishes on the menu to choose from which offer the best vegan and vegetarian options that are cooked with the freshest ingredients. I indulged in a the slow-roasted, free-range leg of lamb, baby potatoes and a minty salsa verde. The meal was absolutely filling and delicious and reminded me of something my mother would cook – so it had the goodness of a home cooked meal which I loved. The meals offered here are perfect not only for vegans and vegetarians but also for those with other dietary needs like diabetics and those who are lactose and wheat intolerant.
The service was excellent, seeing that it was on a weekday – it wasn’t too busy and the prices were affordable. I would definitely go back again if I had the chance to study and have brunch there during the week, or for tea and yummy cookies with my girlfriends or for a lunch date.
Do you know of any other of Cape Town’s gems that I should visit?
xo
Twiggy
Address: 165 Longmarket Street | Cape Town | + 27 (0)21 422 4920
Opening times: Breakfast 7am – 11:30am & lunch from 12:00 – 3pm every day Monday to Friday |Dinner Thursday Only
Another place you have to try is Birds Cafe in Bree Street – one of my favourites, but skip the coffee not great!
I will definitely try if out, I know you know all the best places. Thanks, Talya! x