We recently discovered a new restaurant in Welgemoed, Cape Town.  It is called after the rocket plant, Arugula.  We were hesitant to try this restaurant, as it is situated in a shopping complex, but it turned out to be a little gem.

Open Kitchen In Diningroom

As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately attended to by friendly staff.  We were seated at a window table which had a beautiful view over the Simonsberg.  The interior is simple, but neat, The chefs, co-owners Neil Swart and Anoushka Horn, believe that the focus must be on the food and they do not want to compete with the beautiful view.  Best of this restaurant is the open kitchen at one side of the restaurant, where you can observe the chefs preparing the meals.  They do not store food in huge freezers, as they prefer to use fresh produce every day.

Chefs At Work

We ordered from a small menu which caters for everyone’s preference.  I ordered hake and chips and was amazed to see that my meal was not the usual.  The hake was pan-fried and had a crispy skin.  It was beautifully presented and served with homemade chips, garlic mayo, spicy tomato jam and lemon.

Hake And Chips

Deon ordered deboned lamb rib served with curried butternut risotto, grilled zucchini, pecan nut gremolata and lamb jus.  He certainly was impressed.

Deboned Lamb Rib

  Dessert was a lovely, fresh lemon tart with white chocolate mousse, meringue, rooibos ice-cream, toasted almonds and gooseberries.

Lemon Tart

We loved the experience and will return for dinner one evening when the city lights are on.  Arugula has excellent chefs, a peaceful ambience, delicious food, attentive staff and a great view.  It is a superb restaurant.

Dessert Menu