After years of convivial conversation about this Cape Town institution, two old friends at last decided upon a date to rendezvous and catch-up over a delectable 3 course dinner. As you waft through the front entrance you are transported to a bygone era: black and white floor tiles, mahogany banisters and expanses of marble. Dining in the courtyard one sits with cobblestones below your feet, and fairy lights above your head, creating a romantic ambiance. Five Flies boasts several dining areas with a small bar off the courtyard and a more expansive lounge/bar area upstairs with a large leather chairs and sofas, with a grand piano tucked away in the far corner.

The menu offers a broad selection of scrumptious dishes which can be enjoyed either by ordering a la carte or a multi-course option of up to 5 courses! There is a broad selection of wines available with an option for every palate.

Amongst the myriad of options on offer a calamari starter was chosen to begin the evening, crusted in salt and pepper, accompanied by biltong mayo, crisp new potatoes and a jalapeno and radish salad. The mains consisted line fish of the day and venison: grilled Kabeljou, served on a bed of cauliflower mash, topped with green beans and a beurre blanc sauce; Loin of venison (kudu) with a goat’s cheese crust, sweet, sour cabbage pain perdu, fondant potato, and a caramelised apple and jus.

Once the last few quaffs of wine were enjoyed, the dessert menu was presented. The options are limited but decadent. After some deliberation a Brandy cheesecake was ordered, served with a spiced Indonesian sponge, sour cherry coulis and popcorn foam, and a Vanilla crème brulee, accompanied by a scoop of hazelnut ice cream, a Kaluha and cardamom shot with biscotti.

From beginning to end, the dining experience was exceptional. Service was professional, friendly and efficient. The food was a culinary delight, enchanting with every morsel. Whether it is for a special occasion, a romantic dinner for two, or a gathering of friends and family, the Five Flies will cater to your every need and gastronomic requirement. Contemporary cuisine served with elegance, from a bygone era.

Post by Claire Symons*

The who’s who of Cape Town were invited to the launch of Periquita in Sea Point. What exactly is Periquita you ask? — Periquita is the HOTTEST new swimwear and active gym wear available on South African shores. Periquita pieces (some of the hottest pieces I’ve ever seen!) are made exclusively in Brazil. This stunning boutique is owned by Brazilian model and entrepreneur  Juliana Visconcelos and Jackie Wiese who have brought a piece of Brazil to our beautiful country.

Heading towards Periquita’s newest store in Seapoint Main Road, traffic had slowed down and the locals had come out to their balconies to indulge in the glamorous buzz! Welcomed with champagne or coconut water (for the non-drinkers) – I appreciated the gesture of sticking to the Brazilian heritage and theme!

Soon the store flocked with beautiful women all fascinated by the Brazilian inspired prints, vibrant colours and cuts to flatter all shapes. This is not something I had personally thought about, however it was suggested by one of the helpful ladies that it would be a good idea to get a halter neck bikini to give more support to bigger bust sizes and she was spot on! I loved that fact that they also stock kaftans for those who feel a bit shy this summer and gorgeous accessories to enhance your personal style as well!

We then headed to the yoga studio next door (very fitting) where guests could enjoy Lourensford wines, champagne, various sushi and fabulous canapés from Savruga! Janez Vermeiren -Top Billing presenter (and fiancé of Juliana Visconcelos) formally welcomed everyone. Soon after that the model,s including Juliana had strut their Periquitas all over that catwalk – I think this isn’t just for the ladies, it’s a great way to make any man smile!

Be sure to visit the Periquita boutique at shop 206A on Sea Point Main Road. You won’t regret it!

Post by Widaad Jacobs*

Zanele Dlmaini tells about the amazing farmhouse style guest house in Yzerfontein she has fallen in love with…

Situated on a small holding just 45 minutes from Cape Town, and 10 minutes from the West Coast’s famous 16 Mile Beach, Inglenook Chic is the perfect place to get away from it all.

This carefully, magnificently and conveniently built house is surrounded by pristine fynbos and other indigenous flora and fauna. The environment at Inglenook is nice and relaxed. Guests relish in the tranquillity and natural beauty surrounding them.

Much care and consideration went into the interior decor and design of the Farmhouse. The furniture is utterly exquisite; each piece is elegant and perfectly positioned. The house has a nice feeling of extravagance and luxury, yet one can still feel that strong farmhouse-chic sensation that immediately put you in a holiday mood, making you want to leisure in the poolside sauna or lose  yourself in a good book in one of the daybeds next to the pool. Enamored?

Okay now down to accommodation. Inglenook Farmhouse consists of five bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, tumble dryer, underfloor heating throughout the lounge, dining room, passage etc. Just think about everything you might need in a home – it’s there.

While visiting the Farmhouse, guests can go have fun at nearby attractions like at the fossil park, Langebaan, West Coast National Park, Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre where you will get fascinating insights of the culture, heritage, knowledge and modern-day life of the San of Southern Africa. Golf lovers can go play a round or two of golf at the nearest golf course. You’ll never be bored here.

Read more about what past guests have to say after visiting the Farmhouse. So, what are you waiting for? Make your booking at Inglenook Chic now… It’s a perfect getaway experience for you and all your loved ones!