/ 19 September 1997

Decor for dining

Carmen Morris : Cape Town cafs

Continental drift is a geographical term that is being redefined by Cape Towns latest influx of imported restaurants. Forget South African cuisine and decor. International and foreign flavours are the way to satisfy Cape Towns more sophisticated palates.

The Atlantic Grill at the Table Bay Hotel, Joes Caf and Caf Ba Ba Reeba at the Waterfront are proof of this. They all have cosmopolitan appeal, exotic menus, international decor and impeccable service.

Sip the best French champagne and puff a Cuban cigar in a carefully constructed canvas of textures and tones at the Atlantic Grill Room. This mlange of decorative materials lifts its Victorian and colonial style into modern and contemporary. The decor captures the ambience of Cape Town, with murals reflecting the surroundings and historical influences.

The ambience is one associated with the era of the great cruise-liners, making the whole fine-dining experience that much more refined.

Joes Cafe is a lot more relaxed and informal, with bamboo panelled flooring, cream canvas umbrellas with fairy lights, palm trees and blue strip-lighting. Vases of daisies on the tables create a clean, fresh, comfortable eating environment and it also works wonderfully as a cocktail venue with spectacular views, an under-bar counter for handbags and shopping bags (very European), and a clued-up international selection of cocktail choices. There are definite flavourings of Terence Conrans Quaglinos here, but dont be intimidated.

Cafe Ba Ba Reeba, the latest development of the Vilamoura Group at the BMW Pavilion, is even more laid back. Sitting there felt like being back on the mediterranean. The place emanates vibrance and fun with bright geometric colours, light wooden flooring, bold murals of avant-garde diners and a deli-type counter brimming with exotic tapas all to a Latin-American beat.

Cafe Ba Ba Reeba will have you reminiscing about your escapades in Spain, Portugal or Italy. And if you havent been there yet, it will offer you a taste of what is in store for you.