Hands up if your childhood meals consisted of ‘vleis, rys en aartappels’ (meat, rice and potatoes) a few times a week. Chances are that if you’re South African, this would have been a staple meal in many households. This type of meal is still very popular, but what if I told you that there is a place where they take this concept to the next level? I’m talking seriously top notch stuff.

I recently received an invitation to review The Hussar Grill which was just too good to resist. I knew immediately who my plus one would be; hubby, of course! Being the meat man that he is, I don’t think he would forgive me if he knew I was going to a grill room without him 😉 It isn’t often that we dine out together, and it’s almost unheard of during the week. The thought of a leisurely week day lunch with my love was simply heavenly, and we couldn’t wait for our lunch date.

Celebrating their 55th birthday this year, The Hussar Grill first opened its legendary brass doors in 1964 at their first restaurant in the leafy suburb of Rondebosch. The award-winning The Hussar Grill is regarded as one of South Africa’s finest grill rooms. So what is the secret to their popularity and loyal following? We were soon to find out as this was our first dining experience at this much-loved establishment. Better late than never, right?

We chose to lunch at the original Hussar Grill in Rondebosch, simply because it is close to where we live and one of the oldest grill rooms in the country. There are a number of branches in and around Cape Town, including the winelands, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

Parking in Main Road in Rondebosch can be a bit tricky, and after driving around the block twice, we found a spot in a side street alongside the restaurant.

We were the first to arrive that afternoon and as we were shown to our table, I took in the crisp, white tablecloths and dark wood furnishings. Old encyclopedias, black and white photographs and vintage bottles of wine adorn the walls and shelves and complement the classic decor really well.

What’s On The Menu?

Seated beside a large window with the sunlight streaming in, we had a quick read through the extensive menu while SJ, our server, took our drinks order. I opted for the Hussar Grill Anniversary Premium Blend, a superb dry red blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage that was specially prepared to celebrate their 55^th birthday. It came as no surprise that hubby chose Darling Brew on tap.

We nibbled on some delicious biltong and olives while chatting and taking another peek at the menu. They’ve been curing their own beef biltong since 1964. While I don’t eat beef and lamb, I do make an exception at times when it comes to biltong, especially when it is so succulent and tasty.

There are a number of starters to choose from, including salads and a few vegetarian options. I was impressed with their starter menu, so much so that I managed to narrow it down to just six options! This is where SJ’s expertise came in and she helpfully guided me into choosing a dish based on what I enjoy eating. I always like to eat something a little bit different, especially something that I wouldn’t usually prepare at home.

Hubby decided on the Calamari and Chorizo, thanks once again to SJ’s suggestion. Deliciously prepared Cajun-style Patagonian Calamari, seared with chorizo and finished with a sweet balsamic glaze, this spicy dish was a winner. If you don’t like too much spicy seasoning, ask them to hold the Cajun spice or tone it down a bit.

Listen up, snail fans! I simply adore snails, especially when they are drenched in delectable sauces. The Trio of Snails (six in total) was sublime and they were surprisingly large, unlike what I usually get when dining elsewhere. The three sauces – garlic butter, smoked paprika and rosemary compound butter and blue cheese, were to die for! The dish itself didn’t make for a pretty picture, but it was utterly delicious. You’ll just have to go and try them yourself.

Meat is undoubtedly the star attraction at The Hussar Grill, and with good reason. They are renowned for total excellence in selecting and flame-grilling only the finest quality, no less than 28-day aged, South African Class-A grain-fed beef. Fear not if you aren’t a fan of beef. Choose from a lovely selection of venison, pork, lamb, seafood and chicken dishes from their Main Menu, along with about three vegetarian options.

I do so love my seafood (sustainably sourced, of course), but I couldn’t resist the Gemsbok Steak as my main dish. Cooked to perfection and served with a rich blue cheese sauce and homemade parmesan truffle chips, I was very happy indeed with my meal. SJ suggested a 300gr Fillet on the Bone for hubby. This isn’t a cut of meat that you find everywhere. He thoroughly enjoyed his meal from start to end.

By now, our tummies were nearing full capacity and we were seriously contemplating skipping dessert. We still had some time before we had to go, so SJ surprised us with Chocolate Vodka Martinis. They were wickedly divine and oh-so-luscious!

Hubby’s sweet tooth went into overdrive with the moreish Crème Brûlée, while I chose a liquid dessert. I like to call it an adult milkshake aka Dom Pedro with Kahlua 😉

While the lunch time trade isn’t as busy as the evenings, there was a happy and relaxed atmosphere with a few tables in the upper section of the restaurant, including an 80^th birthday party celebration. Reservations are highly recommended for dinner.

Overall experience

We absolutely loved the few hours we spent at The Hussar Grill. Now I know why they have garnered a loyal following over the years. They consistently serve delicious grills and steaks and provide excellent service in a relaxed setting. Another winning aspect is that you’re welcome to bring your own wine with NO corkage charge.

If you haven’t brought your own wine, their award-winning Diner’s Club Platinum rated wine list is excellent and is carefully selected to accompany and pair with their delicious meals. It’s all about the diner’s entire experience.

I must compliment the Chef and the kitchen team for preparing stellar dishes throughout, as well as SJ. Not only was she friendly and efficient, she knows the menu inside and out and can read her diners well. She is very knowledgeable when it comes to the various cuts of meat available and can make suggestions based on your particular taste. It’s a big YES from me and hubby. We will happily return for some more Hussar Grill deliciousness. Happy 55th birthday to you!

Special Lunch Deal!

Indulge your inner foodie with a delectable Starter and a Main for only R130 per person or a Main Meal for just R95 per person. Now that’s a great deal! Available from Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 5pm. Valid until 31 October 2019. Further Ts & Cs may apply.

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Yours in Food & Wine
xoxo

Disclaimer – I was #hosted by SCOUT PR & SOCIAL MEDIA. All views and images are my own unless stated otherwise. Feature image courtesy of The Hussar Grill Rondebosch.