Pomodoro - Morningside, JHB

The Red Tomato

This week we wondered off to Moringside, Joburg to find another hidden Italian gem. It was one of our Italian friend’s birthdays (Nicolette) and if an Italian family takes you to a restaurant from their homeland, then you know its going to be good. And it was! The all white décor of Pomodoro provides a welcome break from the Tuscan style Italian restaurants. The restaurant itself has a great buzz and energy to it which adds to its charisma.

We were there on Tuesday and the non smoking section was full. (It’s sensible to pre-book.) Stefano, the owner, makes you feel at home and is always accommodating with any special requests you might have, even if it’s to look at his amazing pizza oven and how he built it himself.

We started of with a selection of bruschetta’s (toasted breads with various toppings). Dimitri loved the chicken liver option and Ion went for the Parma ham and rocket. Both of us were pleasantly surprised with the quality and taste.

For mains, Dimitri went for the 600g T-Bone that was well prepared and juicy. Ion indulged in the Parma and rocket pizza with a perfectly crispy base that made all the difference in the appearance and taste. Sasha (Dimitri’s wife) had the fresh grilled fillet of fish prepared in an awesome lemony taste; if you love fish go for this one.

To end off we enjoyed the home made Tiramisu which went perfectly with a well brewed espresso served in a clear glass.

This week tell us your favourite little Italian gem.
Email us at: best@yourtastebuds.com

Until we eat again,

Your Taste Buds,

DimitrION

Emily Moon River Lodge

Moon over Plettenberg Bay

Last week we focused on the Wetcliff and its spectacular view over Jozi. This week we pay tribute to another restaurant with a spectacular view. Add to this great tasting food and a good selection of wines to compliment the serene and tranquil ambience, unique and interesting décor and a completely chilled atmosphere and you’ve got a waiting list…

Emily's Restaurant and Sundowner Deck, found at the Emily Moon River Lodge on the outskirts of Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape has created a good reputation, based on these attributes. In season, it’s almost impossible to find a table without booking days in advance, all for good reason. For a lighter meal, their prego rolls are really tasty, accompanied by a refreshing salad and thin fries. Also try the peri-peri chicken livers. Although there are always additions to the menu, some other great dishes we’ve tried include the filet and the lamb. In keeping with tradition, we finished off with a yummy desert & a good espresso.

Hint: It’s better to dine here out of season. Less people and a more chilled atmosphere to enjoy a few more bottles of Haute Cabriere by the pool…

Until we eat again,

Your Taste Buds,

Dimitrion

Polo Lounge - Westcliff

A room with a view

How often have you sat down to a meal and just been taken aback by the spectacular view? Added to this, there’s the right kind of atmosphere created through décor, music & service. When you can sit back, relax, take a sip of your Martini and say “Life is Good”, then you know this place has got it right!

After another visit to The Polo Lounge and Conservatory at the Westcliff in Jo’burg, we felt compelled to discuss this topic. It’s arguably one of our favourite places for cocktails/sundowners, as the view over the largest man-made forest in a city that is Jozi is amazing. The infinity pool helps with creating a relaxed atmosphere as well! Ion chose his favourite aperitivo – the Negroni, while Dimitri & his beautiful wife Sash sipped on G&T’s. Just like the drive up to the bar/restaurant, prices are steep, but well worth it. They make some really yummy accompanying snacks as well. Although we haven’t eaten a five-course meal here yet (budgetary limitations) we hear the food’s great!

Apart from the view, the cocktails are really good (finest ingredients), the service is impeccable, and the staff are friendly and accommodating to make sure you’re happy, including bringing the heaters closer in winter when the sun goes down and the view transforms from a scattering of lights in the city (we wonder what its like at night when there’s a power cut over the city – sure we’ll find out soon enough!)

Tip: Book in advance and ask for an outside table

Until we eat again,

Your Taste Buds,

DimitrIon

Tell us where your favourite restaurant/bar with a view is at best@yourtastebuds.com