Showing posts with label functions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label functions. Show all posts

Monday, November 11, 2013

Cheese, Cheese, glorious Cheese

Cheese Gourmet Cafe and Deli is a landmark in Linden, renowned for the vast range of both local and imported cheeses.  But there is so much more to this delightful haven for those appreciate the finer things in life.

How about Rex Union oranges?  Well, what is so special about that?  Pockets of these uniquely South African oranges were available recently at the Deli but the 'special' label is because there are apparently only 50 trees left growing in the Rustenburg area.  A cross developed in South Africa, between a Seville orange and a pomelo and supposedly named after George Rex, they are the Rolls Royce citrus for making marmalade.  Except not many people make marmalade these days so, with declining demand, farmers are replacing them with more fashionable varieties.

Owners Brian and Jo Dick travel around SA and overseas to 'slow food' and cheese fairs (amongst others) and go out of their way to discover and source top quality and unusual products, preferably local.  For instance, there is an olive grove in the Magaliesberg producing top quality extra virgin cold pressed oil.  Or a goats milk cheese being made in Parkhurst!

But the Deli is so much more than cheese.  Yoghourts, biscuits, jams - there is plenty to excite and - Buy.  The coffee shop serves great coffee, unusual and delicious breakfast dishes and freshly made light meals.  A steady stream of very different functions are dreamed up - a 'long table' meal on the pavement presented with the restaurant next door, a tour of a dairy farm and their cheese making enterprise, dinners with special themes eg olive oil, chocolate, whiskey etc.

An interesting newsletter keeps addressees informed of all the activities from this most enterprising 'food emporium'.

http://jozifoodiefix.blogspot.com/2013/03/if-youre-in-linden-cheese-gourmet.html
http://eatout.co.za/restaurants/5459/johannesburg/deli-light-meals/cheese-gourmet

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Second Cup?

Recent local research by an internationally renowned 'hygiene' and household products company found the Second Cup Coffee Shop and the sister Second Cup Deli, rated 'amongst the top 10' in the country.

The original has a nickname of Second Cup 'Plaas' because the decor is that of an Old Transvaal farmhouse complete with a curved corrugated iron verandah roof.  An old ox wagon, farm implements, milk cans and signs from yesteryear all contribute to the welcoming ambiance.  Tables are placed amongst the plants under the shady trees in this indigenous nursery as well as inside and on the verandah.  Guinea fowl and bantam roosters and hens roam around providing additional farm charm.  Several arty shops are located on the nursery premises which invite the browser to check them out.

An imaginative menu offers a range of really different and delicious items for breakfast, tea, lunch or snacks.  And all the dishes are beautifully presented. Service is consistently friendly, unobtrusive and efficient from the well trained staff.

The Second Cup Deli ("Paleis") is located a few kilometres away and, decor wise, is as different as night and day.  It is located in a small office cum shopping complex and the decor is rococo complete with chandeliers, gilt framed mirrors and pewter ware.  But thankfully, the same high standard of beautifully presented food and service is in evidence.  Light, relaxing background music is often provided by a pianist.

A wine cellar doubles up as a function room that can accommodate 80-100 guests and "fine dining" comparable to the very best served anywhere in Johannesburg, is offered on Friday evenings.  A wide range of products from cakes to balsamic vinegar and gifts are available in the deli.      

http://www.yowzit.com/za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&catid=76:cafes&id=1343:second-cup-bistro&Itemid=59  




Monday, October 14, 2013

Moemas, a Patisserie with a Difference


Located in a small but busy neighbourhood shopping centre in Parktown North, Moemas is a special destination.  Yes, it is a coffee shop but No, it is not just another coffee shop.  It is renowned for outstanding cakes and tarts, all made on the premises in the very French tradition and although inside seating is limited, additional seating is set out in a secluded nook overlooking a quiet parking area.  All of which adds up to a cosy ambiance.  
Delicious breakfasts and light lunches are served while outside catering and special functions are also undertaken.  Well worth a visit and one of our favorite coffee shop destinations.

www.moemas.co.za