Inga Sibiya shares her top eateries to try decadent treats.
Many have been known to say, ‘it ain’t over until the fat lady sings.’ I think the mysterious woman can attribute her size to getting into the dessert stash before the rest of us have finished our meal.
Whether you prefer to cap a culinary experience with a sweet finish, or treat yourself to the occasional afternoon delight, you should always leave space for pudding.
Decadently delicious desserts presented with a certain level of showmanship should be celebrated. Here are three eateries that have served unforgettable desserts you are sure to return for in-between reliving them in your dreams.
Swan Café
Cape Town’s first French crêperie, brought to you by Jessica Rushmere, has a lot of charm. While you can begin with a generously portioned buckwheat galette, the indulgent crêpes are the true champions.
Order the Tantalizing Tom – the red wine poached pears that decorate the décolletage of the paper-thin pancakes, paired with lashings of dark chocolate ganache, is a treat not to be missed.
A summer must-do is the Belle Helene. Cinnamon and white wine poached pears with artisan ice cream and toasted almond flakes on a crêpe is light and delicate – perfect for the warmer months.
Corner Buitenkant and Barrack Street. Zonnebloem, Cape Town | 021 454 4758
The Willaston Bar
Enjoy the opulent sophistication that the Silo Hotel’s in-house eatery has to offer. The spectacular panoramic view of Cape Town provides the perfect setting to sit down for the faultless high tea Chef Devin Jones prepares.
Head to the rooftop bar for a better view of the Mother City, and to try the seasonal sweet treat Chef Devin has recently developed.
A few of the nibbles you can look forward to are a large–and–in–charge pistachio macaron filled with a tangy raspberry parfait, garnished with edible flowers and a crunchy pistachio praline; profiteroles with a Marie biscuit-flavoured filling; and buttery croissants that melt in your mouth.
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town | 021 670 0500
Momenti Gelato
The endless summer Durbanites enjoy, lends itself well to this artisan gelateria. Edward Papaphotis develops a whole manner of traditional Italian gelato with flavours inspired by the seasons, as well as natural ingredients he sources locally.
Though the succinctly named Liquorice (which has star anise and activated charcoal added to it) is one of his latest creations, it is the Golden Turmeric flavour that deserves special mention for its aromatic spiciness.
Unit 5, 6 Station Drive. Morningside, Durban| 072 949 7263