Strolla Restaurant & Bar – stunning views and tantalizing tapas!

If you enjoy watching a stunning ocean view sunset with friends and a cool cocktail (or two!) in hand, then you must try the sophisticated yet casually elegant Strolla Restaurant & Bar, situated along the wind-free Platinum Mile. Located just off Sea Point’s busy promenade, alongside the Peninsula All-Suite Hotel, Strolla has become very popular with locals and visitors alike.

The Sunset Deck, overlooking the hotel’s swimming pool, has spectacular ocean views and is the place to be on a stunning summer’s day or evening. The vibe is very relaxed with people chatting and having a great time. What a treat we were in for thanks to Zomato Cape Town and Strolla.

For the Foodie Meetup, talented Chef Oliver prepared a mouthwatering and creative feast for us. This was accompanied by friendly and efficient service courtesy of Lyn, the manageress.

Their menu has something for everyone and I personally enjoyed every morsel. I’m not sure my stomach could actually cope with the tasty 8-course meal but somehow, I managed to plough my way through and keep going!

The Cocktail Menu has a wide range of libations including Classic Cocktails such as the Mojito (my favourite), Piña Coladas and Strawberry Daiquiris. For something different, try one of Strolla’s Signatures, such as the Salted Caramel Old Fashioned – a modern take on an old classic. I found the Wine Menu quite extensive with some good by-the-glass options.

While we were sipping our cocktails, chatting and watching the sunset, our first course was served – cold Cucumber and Cumin Soup topped with a mouthwatering prawn. The flavours worked beautifully and it was delicious. The phrase “Can I have some more please?” popped into my head but quickly vanished when I remembered that we still had 7 courses to go!

Next up was a Lamb Croquette with a red wine jus. I don’t usually eat lamb but decided to give this one a try. It was tasty and the rich red wine jus complimented the croquette nicely.

When I heard what we were having next, I had to suppress a squeal of delight. Risotto is one of my all-time favourite things to eat and I was not disappointed with the Pancetta and Minted Pea Risotto. My only issue was that it was served on a Chinese spoon so it was essentially only a mouthful, not nearly enough for a risotto-loving gal like me! I could easily have eaten an entire bowl of it. But as we were having tapas to start off, the amount we were given was just right *note to self to go back and order an entire bowl of risotto*.

Shortly thereafter, we moved indoors to experience dining in the elegant downstairs area.

The Sticky Pork Short Ribs were a real treat – the tender meat just fell off the bone and melted in my mouth. Plus it’s so much fun eating something so yum and getting your fingers covered with a sticky sauce!

By now, my stomach had begun to slowly protest the amount of food I was indulging in. It’s amazing how mind over matter works in a case like this! We were now into sharing plates of food. I don’t usually go for spicy foods, but am very happy I tried the Spicy Chicken Koftas with hummus and homemade sweet chilli sauce. Even though my mouth was tingling and slightly on fire (I really can’t handle spicy food!), I enjoyed it. For anyone that loves their spicy food, this one is a must!

The layered cheesy Chicken Nachos with sour cream, salsa and guacamole were so tasty that we devoured the sharing plates in no time. Probably the best nachos I have had in awhile.

Just when I thought I couldn’t possibly eat another bite, out came Lyn with pizzas – Fig and Parma ham and Moroccan Lamb with Rosa tomatoes. These were simply too good to resist! A thin, crispy base with just the right amount of toppings and cheese – just heavenly.

Now what is a meal without dessert you may ask? Our feast came to a delightful end with a creamy and light Nougat Cheesecake.

The Café Menu is perfect for that quick café latte and freshly baked croissant whilst taking a break from your early morning promenade walk or run. For those with young kids, they have a great indoor play area that will keep them entertained while you relax. For those without, the enclosed glass area will drown out any noise. They also have a Kiddies Menu which has the usual options available.

Whether you pop in for a quick morning coffee or stay for a lingering lunch or dinner taking in the spectacular view, be sure to put Strolla on your foodie and cocktail bucket list. I think you may find yourself returning there over and over again. I know I can’t wait to go back.

For the month of March, Strolla is hosting “MOTOWN” Fridays from 5pm-8pm. Cocktails, sunsets, music and yummy food – what an awesome way to start your weekend!