Summer 2020

33 Oct19185 An Appetite for Africa Nestled between the natural splendour of Table Mountain and the rugged beauty of a working harbour, Karibu has a life all its own. Committed to sharing the delicacies that have made South African food something to salivate over, they are the proud winners of Most Outstanding South African Cuisine – 2019 in LUXlife's Leading Luxury Restaurant and Bar Awards. We looked a little closer to see what delights they had to offer. Sitting on the waterfront of Table Bay Harbour, sipping at a fine glass of exquisite wine, it’s easy to see why Karibu has become widely recognised as a bastion of taste and elegance for South African food. Drawing its name from the Swahili for ‘welcome’, visitors can be assured of a greeting not to be forgotten, and a meal they’ll never forget. The appeal of Karibu comes from its delightful fusion of ambience with the unique theatre of dining. Always assured of a good time, it’s clear that this attitude has led to great success. The chefs within the hard- working and talented team use years of experience to create dishes that reflect the wonder of South African cuisine. These culinary pleasures are provided using only the finest ingredients, prepared with care and attention. Few have the ability to offer diners the choice of such succulent steaks or superb seafood alongside the traditional delicacies that make the restaurant proudly South African. The implicit promise when walking into Karibu’s is that the experience is not purely culinary; it is also one which is uniquely African in nature. Traditional treats from the local area make up the fantastic fare on offer, including boboite, potjiekos and snoekbraai. Where appropriate, traditional techniques are used as well, with top grade prime cuts of meat, fish and poultry grilled South African style – over the coals of an open fire before the diner’s eyes. When a restaurant like Karibu specialises, it’s clear that while the regular menu will be incredible, the specialties will be something truly unique. The team at Karibu has ensured that their specialties are typically South African in origin, each more mouth-watering than the last. Of course, the mainstay of the menu is the delicate lamb shank, slow roasted in rosemary, garlic and red wine and ready to melt in the mouth at a moment’s notice. This is served with a gorgeous herbed mash. The more daring diner, perhaps wanting to experience something more authentic, has other options such as karoo lamb French trim chops or bobotie. The latter is a traditional Cape Malay dish, combining spiced beef mince, raisins and an egg-based topping to create a delectable meal. Once baked to perfection, the team’s chefs serve to diners alongside celebration rice. It’s certainly true that exceptional food is a major draw for this delightful restaurant, but no experience would be complete without taking the opportunity to explore the myriad options on offer with regards to the wine list. Combining the best of what Cape Town has to offer, the collection collates both emerging sources and established voices to create a compilation of stunning wines. Trained sommeliers are on hand to not only provide the necessary wine, but to advise as far as possible which wines will complement and enhance a meal. When all’s said and done, a visit to Karibu’s is a visit to explore what Africa is through the medium of taste. It’s an astonishing journey, made more pleasant by the evident skill and ability that is part of every mouthful of every morsel. A visit to Karibu’s is certainly not one to be missed. Company: Karibu Contact: Jamie Rowntree Website: www.kariburestaurant.co.za