Our features writer Fundiswa Nkwanyana checked out an eatery called Douglas + Hale in Parktown North, and shares her thoughts.
FIRST IMPRESSION
I decided to eat at this restaurant after I heard my peers raving about its delicious food and drinks. On arrival, I was welcomed by a friendly waiter who ushered me in. The interior decor was filled with upcycled furniture that created a classic yet modern aesthetic that I found intriguing. The walls were decorated with animal skulls, large rustic mirrors, black and white photographs as well as a corner with hanging old belts and hats. I loved the seating areas because you could either sit on the red dramatic opulent velvet couches, leather-cushioned chairs or at a cosy outdoor seating area overlooking the street. I found the lighting a bit dark inside, so I chose to sit outside so I could take Instagram-worthy pictures.
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THE MENU
Whether you’re looking for a light meal to enjoy with a drink or a gourmet dish, you will find it in the comprehensive menu. It was divided into nibbles, snacks, starters, salads, mains, pasta and burgers. Additionally, there was a variety of local wines to choose from as well as cocktails made by a mixologist. For the main course, I enjoyed free-range pork belly served with cinnamon mash, wilted spinach, roast vegetables, terrine and crackling. It was plated so beautifully while the portion size was generous. The fresh vegetables and pork belly were very enjoyable. For dessert, I ate chocolate delice served with boozy nuts, beetroot gel, fennel, maldon salt and caramel ice cream. The chocolate was so rich and tasty that this is now my new favourite dessert. The cocktails were prepared by a mixologist, and boy did they go down well! I loved that I couldn’t taste the alcohol in my cocktail; it was clean and crisp.
SEE ALSO: REVIEW: Lunch at the Brightside Farm
OVERALL EXPERIENCE
I had lunch on a Friday and even though it was fairly busy, the service was efficient and friendly. The food was delicious and fresh. I highly recommend this restaurant for lunch with friends, after-work drinks or a romantic intimate dinner.
