After a busy year, Deon and I at last have some time to explore new restaurants again. We discovered a little bistro close to home in Durbanville recently. It is called Urban Wines and Bistro, situated at the corner of New Street and Koeberg Road.
Lisa, the owner, comments: “Urban Wines is a dream I have had for many years. A dream to create a space where people are inspired by what they experience, where friendships are made along with great memories through the experience of damn good wine and coffee.” At this little bistro you taste, eat, drink, shop and experience Urban Wines.
Interior
It was love at first sight when we entered. It is a beautiful, creative space which serves breakfast, lunch, drinks and coffee. They have special events during the week, e.g. wine tastings on Wednesdays and Fridays, steak nights, or simply visit them with friends and enjoy a bottle of wine over cheese and charcuterie. There is no wine list, you have a choice from the wine displayed on the walls. There is indeed a wide variety to choose from.
The menu is out of the ordinary and the light meals are created by a talented chef, hiding in the kitchen. Deon ordered a bunless beef burger, topped with melted mozzarella, smothered in a spicy tomato relish and served on a bed of cucumber ribbons, with a side of zingy courgette and corn warm salad. It sounds like a mouthful, but it was excellent, and Deon did not even miss the traditional burger with a meat patty. This was gourmet par excellence.
Bunless Burger
I ordered a hash brown veggie pizza which was a crisp potato hash brown, topped with grilled courgette, aubergine, asparagus and roasted tomato. It was not only beautifully presented, but also very tasty.
Hash Brown
While we were halfway through or lunch, the power suddenly went off and we realized that it was time for South Africa’s famous loadshedding to kick in. The manager took it all in her stride and soon we were eating lunch by candlelight.
It was a great Friday afternoon. Well done, Urban Wines Bistro, we’ll be back soon.
