Loeries 2019 and 12th anniversary Oyster Box high tea

Last week was one of the busiest of the year as I was in KZN from Wednesday covering the Loeries. We also celebrated our 12th anniversary with high tea at the Oyster Box before heading home on Tuesday this week. It’s a bumper edition packed with pics so get that scrolling finger ready…

Wednesday, 21 August 2019: Slow Lounge CT, Spur meal in KZN

Slow lounging, Cape Town! The top pic of macarons and the Mango plane are from Husband’s trip to join me once the Loeries were over on Sunday, the bottom two on the left were my snaps from my Wednesday morning flight.

Durban, check! Following a morning flight, I landed in the KZN heat with my colleague Angie. See the view from out hotel room at the Garden Court South Beach, as well as my strawberry milkshake and cheddamelt schnitzel special in the Spur downstairs, to start our stay on the right note.

Thursday, 22 August 2019: Loeries Masterclasses at the Durban ICC

Keeping it classy at the Masterclasses! Our Loeries fun always starts with the morning and afternoon masterclasses held at the Durban ICC. Click here to read my overview of the Game/Dion Wired ‘What do CMOs really want’ morning masterclass and here for my overview of the UN Women-Dove afternoon masterclass.

Friday, 23 August 2019: DStv Seminar of Creativity, first Loeries award night

Some of my Friday highlights included the view from our hotel room, on the 15th floor of the hotel, as well as Manuel Borde’s presentation at the Loeries’ DStv Seminar of Creativity, and bumping into Loeries CEO Andrew Human. Click here to read my overview of Borde’s presentation in full, here for more on Africans being creative sharks and here for more on checking stereotypes in the industry.

Scenes from the Friday night Loeries ceremony, as well as the cheddamelt schnitzel meal we shared on Saturday, with a Bar-One shake each.

Saturday, 24 August 2019: Annual Brand SA brunch, second Loeries award night

Saturday started off with the annual Brand South Africa brunch at California Dreaming. See my strong cappuccino and the pool outside our hotel room.

Looking windswept but happy at the Brand SA brunch at California Dreaming.

A few social pics from the Brand SA brunch, networking with the industry before the second awards night…

Red carpeting! See our outfits from Friday night at the Loeries at the Durban ICC in the top row and Saturday night on the bottom row.

Sunday, 25 August 2019: 12th wedding anniversary at the Oyster Box Hotel

Thank you, Oyster Box! Having seen off Angie and welcomed Husband at the airport, we were shuttled to the Oyster Box Hotel, where stayed in the King Willow Suite and walked in to find a special anniversary balloon and plate of sweet treats to celebrate.

Hello, Oyster Box! See duckies on the lawn, us as snapped in the lift, the below-ground private dining area and Skabenga saying ‘hi’.

Some of the lovely Oyster Box scenery, from the spiral staircase to the movie theatre.

Our B Harmonised massage in the Spa at the Oyster Box is one of the best I’ve had, as it didn’t leave me feeling sore and knotted the next day. See Husband relaxing in the indoor jacuzzi as well as my flute of fizz, the hammam steam room and a private ‘relax space’ for two. All the words are coming to my full review on Bizcommunity soon…

In my happy place, having a coffee and soaking up the view post-massage on the balcony of our Oyster Box Hotel suite.

We strolled along the Umhlanga Promenade to take in that golden stretch of sand.

Happy anniversary to us! We were delighted to find a table at La Spiagga a little further down the main promenade that night. See my Kahlua coffee shake, Husband’s glass of red, and the gnocchi piccante we wolfed down.

Oyster Box bliss! See the main pool all lit up at night, and view of the ‘hidden’ pool’ outside the Spa.

Monday, 26 August 2019: High tea at the Oyster Box Hotel

Our first-morning pickings from the Oyster Box Hotel’s breakfast buffet featured oysters and salmon for him, as well as bircher muesli, chocolate milk and a waffle with all the toppings for me.

The CL2 cocktail (coconut milk, lavender and litchi) with stunning striped sea and sky beyond, as well as iconic red-and-white lighthouse and Oyster Box Hotel striped pool umbrellas. Love!

High tea is served! See some of the tea options, as well as stacks of savouries for those with a little less of a sweet tooth than me.

See blue macarons, our reserved table and some of the delicious cakes – there was even a sushi station for Husband to feast from.

Husband, caught sipping tea with pinkie finger extended.

Pool time! After we’d had a nap to digest some of that delicious high tea, we spent time at the main pool. It was bliss!

Swimming in the main pool at sunset was pure magic.

Husband ended our anniversary with a cigar and brandy in the Chukka Bar downstairs at the Oyster Box Hotel. We laughed at the ‘rules of the inn’!

Tuesday, 27 August 2019: King Shaka Slow Lounge

Oyster Box breakfast, take two. For me, a strong cappuccino, mini pastries and delicious single egg benedict. Husband ended up with a proper cooked breakfast this time, including bacon and even curry.

Vehicles seen in and around the Oyster Box Hotel – the Merc top-left served as our shuttle from the airport to the hotel.

Once we’d checked out of the Oyster Box Hotel (sob), we took another walk along the pier and main promenade in Umhlanga.

King Shaka Slow Lounging! Once we had checked in our bags for our flight home, we made our way to the Slow Lounge in King Shaka airport. See some of the lovely snacks on offer.

Home time! See us on the plane home, as well as THE view out the window and Husband’s view when he stepped into the cockpit to chat to the flight crew after we’d safely landed.

That’s all, folks! Here’s to a warm and restful week ahead. 🙂

*Disclaimer: Our meals, spa treatment and accommodation at the Oyster Box Hotel were part of our review package. All else came from our own pockets. All enjoyed equally.

Discovering where pineapple belongs in the Italian kitchen at 95 at Parks

This past week has been another busy one packed with events and delicious food, as you’ll see from the snaps below…

Thursday, 20 June 2019: Kantar’s ‘Innovation for Growth’ workshop

Last Thursday, I attended Kantar’s ‘Innovation for Growth’ workshop, at their photogenic offices on the Foreshore. Click here for a reminder of my event overview article.

Friday, 21 June 2019: Orange sky before the storm

A line of orange clouds last Friday, before an enormous storm that evening.

Cold weather means lots of cold doggies snuggling up under blankies. And watching the rain from between the curtains.

Saturday, 22 June 2019: Munching at Trecastelli and Colala on Marine Circle

See our breakfast at Trecastelli on Marine Circle last Saturday morning. Flat whites and the cooked breakfast for Husband (it’s not on the menu but quite a popular choice), while I had the cappuccino-croissant special.

I was in dire need of a coffee refill when we were at the Mall later that afternoon. Nothing a R10 dirty chai latte from Xpresso can’t fix!

On Saturday afternoon we popped into Colala on Marine Circle for an early dins – they serve Asian fusion food, so you can have sushi and a creamy curry like Husband, or chicken cashew nut with egg fried rice like me. They also serve milkshakes like this caramel one, yay and bonus, they’re on the Entertainer app – we’ll be back!

Sunday, 23 June 2019: Reload Leadville breakfast

Sunday was a ‘Reload Leadville’ kind of morning, so we popped in for breakfast. See my mashed avo bagel and peppermint-choc latte, as well as Husband’s ‘trim’ mince, cheese and onion omelette. We also gret numerous happy doggies having walkies with their owners.

Coffee on our pretty new coffee side table.

Homemade creme caramel for dessert at Mum’s on Sunday. Yum!

Sweet, sleepy doglets as seen throughout the week.

Wednesday, 26 June 2019: Pasta Ripiena master class at 95@Parks

On Wednesday, I attended a ‘pasta ripiena’ master class at 95 at Parks, where chef Giorgio Nava shared tips and techniques to make his legendary stuffed pasta dishes. Mum came along too! See her with chef Nava, as well as the delightful setting.

I also had my pic snapped with Chef Nava, of course! See the delicious cheese we snacked on, the cosy setting, our first course of spinach and butternut ravioli, and the deep-fried Pasta Montenara.

The master class in action! Chef Giorgio Nava, with his two ‘helpers’, Giovanna and Jonas. All three showed us various aspects of the filled pasta creation process.

See the pasta ripiena menu, on offer until end-July, as well as the pea-and-ham cappelletti, pineapple sorbet (this is the answer to where pineapple belongs in the Italian kitchen – certainly not on pizza). Also see our espresso and cappuccino to end the meal. Click here for my official review on Biz, as well as to download Chef Nava’s pasta recipes from the master class!

Thursday, 27 June 2019: Surprise 50th office birthday party

We surprised our CEO with a birthday party a day early on Thursday. See some of the decorations and snacks.

Happy birthday! See Andre in white, just to the left of the gold ’50’ balloons, with the rest of team Biz gathered around.

We had pots of delicious Thai curry and rice, as well as stacks of sweet treats – always doughnuts for Andre – to celebrate.

That’s all folks! I’m taking a few days’ leave next week for a ‘digital detox’ of sorts, see you for next Friday’s update. 🙂

Conferencing, sunsets and St Patrick’s Day 2019

This past week has been a blur of conferences, sunsets and good food, as you’ll see from the pics below…

Friday, 15 March 2019: Afternoon tea at home

I worked from home last Friday so took a quick afternoon tea break when my in-laws popped in for a visit. See the tea and stack of egg-mayo sandwiches Mum made.

Saturday, 16 March 2019: Breakfast at Park’s End, Catch22 cocktails

We needed to do some weekend admin in the Southern Suburbs on Saturday, so stopped in where Cafeen used to be – it’s now called Parks End. See Husband’s salmon eggs benedict, my creme brulee latte and various interesting things in store.

The name may have changed, but the menu basics are the same. See my French toast topped with bacon and bruleed banana, as well as syrup, cinnamon sugar and lemon curd. Yum!

Lovely scenery on the way back home from Constantia side.

We had our Saturday afternoon meal at Catch22. See the palm-tree light and my tiramisu shake. Yum!

Also see my buccaneer beef burger topped with bacon, cheese and onion rings, some of Mum’s sushi and Husband’s coconut bay fish curry.

Of course Husband had a dip in the sea that afternoon.

Sunday, 16 March 2019: St Patrick’s Day 2019

Some of the themed balloons we saw on display for St Patrick’s Day. We always celebrate as my dad is Patrick!

We met Husband’s mum for breakfast at the Pink Olive on Sunday morning. Note all the green outfits, for St Patrick’s Day.

Some of the Pink Olive decor as well as the flat whites, egg-and-mince on toast, and fresh scones with jam and cream.

Sunday evening’s fiery sunset.

Monday, 18 March 2019: Women in Tech Africa Conference

On Monday I popped into the first Women In Tech Africa conference, at the Century City Convention Centre. See some of the treats that were on offer…

Proof I was there, as well as the much-needed coffee and some of the sessions taking place. Watch for my coverage highlights in Monday’s #FairnessFirst column on Bizcommunity!

Tuesday 19 and Wednesday, 20 March 2019: eCommerce Africa conference

Tuesday and Wednesday this week were all about the fifth ever eCommerce Africa conference at the CTICC. See some of the eats and views here.

These were some of my favourite moments of eCommerce Africa 2019, click through to my overview articles of the best talk on day 1 and day 2.

Sweet Bassie napping with her grandpa.

That’s all, folks! Have a relaxing weekend. 🙂

Superette study buddy brownies and midweek sunset burgers at Jerry’s

This week, we got to see all the close Cape family members, as our Johannesburg friend Gords was in town on business…

Friday, 5 October 2018: Sunny office start

I started last Friday with a bright Smile 90.4FM mug of Douwe Egberts coffee in the office, yum.

Saturday, 6 October 2018: The Daily, Melkbos and El Barrio Springbok-viewing

A brand new branch of The Daily has opened in Melkbos, over looking the beachfront, so that’s where we headed for Saturday morning breakfast. See my condensed milk-topped tin cup coffee and ‘waffle pop’ topped with bananas and caramel, as well as Husband’s eggs Florentine.

View of Melkbos beachfront, from The Daily balcony.

Rugby-themed baked goods on display at our local Checkers when we did groceries that afternoon.

Husband had some 2-for-1 salmon sashimi from Best Asia Cape Town, the sushi restaurant in Bayside Mall for his early afternoon treat.

Scenes from our early Saturday evening dins at El Barrio – we watched the first-half of the Springboks-All Blacks rugby match and ate delicious taco bowls.

Husband had a glass of red, I tried the ‘Mexican coffee’ from the breakfast menu – Sierra Blanco, espresso, Kahlua and melted ice cream, with a cinnamon-rim.

Spending some quality time with the doglets that evening.

Sunday, 7 October 2018: Sleepy dogs and Pakalolo’s Bloody Mary

Various sleepy dogs as seen in and around the bedroom on Sunday morning.

We had breakfast at Village Place in West Coast Village on Sunday morning. I’d already had a coffee at home, so see my peanutbutter smoothie and Husband’s flat white.

To eat, Husband had the mince (and eggs) on toast, while I went for the banting flapjacks – the mix includes bananas, and they’re topped with berries and yoghurt. Yum!

Scenes from Husband having his customary weekend dip in the sea.

Husband looking pleased with his Bloody Mary at Pakalolo’s that afternoon.

Mum made a delicious potato-filled beef curry with rotis for lupper that evening.

Monday, 8 October 2018: Study buddy catch-up at Superette

After work on Monday, I caught up with my former study buddy from Red & Yellow School, Jaryd – he now runs Trusted Talent. We were thrilled to be at Superette in the Woodstock Exchange, as you can see.

It was super-hot that day so we were given chilled glasses of water with lemon. I also had a hot-cross-bun latte and we each ordered a chocolate brownie – see little lump of white chocolate inside, with berries and cream.

Wednesday, 10 October 2018: Ads24 event at Nasdak and family dins at Jerry’s

Gorgeous view from the ‘Nasdak’, where the Ads24 Food For Thought event was held on Wednesday. Click here and here if you’ve missed my coverage on Bizcommunity so far.

As the event was called ‘Food For Thought’, the food on display was a true delight! See the doughuts, asking to be topped or filled with the contents of the hanging tubes – padkos-nostalgia themed, with strawberry Steri-Stumpie, peanutbutter-and-jam, humbug, guava roll-cream or ‘biltong-and-Melrose’ to choose from. Also see superfood capsules and shakers to boost our morning coffee with cocoa, macha powder, turmeric, hemp seed or mushroom powder.

Gords was down from Joburg on business on Wednesday, so we gathered the family at Jerry’s on Marine Drive after work that eve.

We had booked a booth, so got to see the lights from Jerry’s reflecting out over the view of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head at sunset.

Group shot in front of the Jerry’s tattoo wallpaper before we left.

The doggies, caught napping together on the couch again that evening.

That’s all, folks! Have a relaxing weekend 🙂

Donuts, doughnuts everywhere!

It’s Freedom Day today in SA, so we’ve had a lovely day relaxing and spending time with family. But more of that in next week’s update.

Last week, you’d think I just sat and ate donuts (or doughnuts, depending on your spelling preference) from the pics you’re about to see. I promise I did lots of other things in between…

Thursday, 19 April 2018: SheSays CT launch at Red & Yellow

Last Thursday, I attended the launch of SheSays Cape Town with my colleague Clarina after work. It’s the largest global network of females working in the creative industries. Click here if you missed my coverage!

Evening skies over Devil’s Peak.

Cloud-flecked sky as seen when looking towards the harbour from the Red & Yellow School rooftop.

Friday, 20 April 2018: Dunkin Donuts while working from home

I worked from home last Friday as had a huge amount of work to do before Sunday evening so decided to save time on the commute. My parents popped in with a sweet teatime treat – Dunkin Donuts! The heart held a raspberry jammy filling and the smiley face was filled with a chocolate mousse. Delicious!

Saturday, 21 April 2018: Father-in-Law’s 75th birthday braai

We started our weekend at Driftwood Cafe as we were conveniently having our car washed next door. See the coffee and weekend breakfast special minus toast as they were in the middle of a power cut, so this was all cooked on gas.

After a bit of weekend admin we stopped at The Daily Cafe in Big Bay’s Seaside Village for a mid-morning treat. See Husband’s con panna and my ‘waffle pop’ topped with caramel, banana and a cup of soft serve.

Father-in-Law held his official 75th birthday braai on Saturday afternoon, with various friends and extended family members in attendance. See the train-topped birthday cake and lots of smiles.

Bassie got lots of attention from her other Grampa and dad during the party.

Bertie was all tuckered out after entertaining everyone at his Grampa’s party by running around and greeting animals on the TV screen. He curled up on the couch and rested for a bit once we got home.

We see you, Bertie boy…

Sunday, 22 April 2018: Village Place breakfast, Milky Lane treat

We both had quite a bit of work to do so started off with a quick breakfast together at The Village Place Cafe last Sunday. See my vanilla cappuccino with heart-shaped biscuit, Husband’s mince, eggs and cheese on toast and my French toast with bacon, banana and nuts.

Once we were both done with work for the day we stopped in at the Milky Lane at Table Bay Mall for a quick Sunday afternoon treat. See my ‘Bubbles crunch Sunnydae’, very similar to the promo pic and looks and just what I needed. Husband had an ice-cream sandwich, not pictured.

Monday, 23 April 2018: Belated birthday cake at work

My colleague Juanita had been on leave for a few days to celebrate her birthday and spoiled us with cake in the office on her return. I had a slice of the ganache-y chocolate, it was delicious! The caramel and Black Forest disappeared before I could even think of trying a slice. I’ll be faster next time 😉

Tuesday, 24 April 2018: AfricArena media launch at InvestSA

Cape Town time, front and centre at the InvestSA one-stop shop.

Such a nice work environment at InvestSA – it’s a coworking space, so you’re encouraged to pop in if looking for government assistance with any aspect of your businesses!

I was there to cover the press conference for the second AfricArena tech startup pitching competition and conference, taking place in Cape Town later in the year following a brief ‘world tour’. My overviews will go up over the next few weeks, as it’s Africa Month on Bizcommunity.

Mum brought over delicious meatloaf with veggies for dins that evening. We ate up every last scrap!

Wednesday, 25 April 2018: Good Hope FM #donuttouchthatdial DJ line-up remix at Grand Life Cafe

It was time for even more donuts at Good Hope FM’s first trade media event in five years, their new DJ line-up reveal held at Grand Life Cafe at the V&A Waterfront on Thursday. Was a wonderfully sunny day with bright blue skies.

Oh you know, just hanging with the Good Hope FM DJs.

These vibrant purple flowers looked fake but were definitely the real deal. Also see the two ‘candy stations’ offering an assortment of red and blue sweeties.

Beautiful pink and red and orange cascading blooms.

There was a printing station so you could have your face printed on a donut if you so desired, and guests were free to sample as many as they liked. These were all absolutely amazing, glazed with caramel, chocolate, coffee and pretzels in all the right places.

Lovely sushi and fishy eats too, if you weren’t a fan of sweet things (who are these people?!)

This is what we came for – My Sugar created special donuts to go with each DJ’s personality.

I got to take home my favourite – the DJ Ready D. It had a peanut butter-choc ganache topping, nuts and a mild milk chocolate centre that oozed out when you bit into it. Delicious!

That’s all, folks! We hope you’re having a wonderful long weekend so far.

Autumn Risotto Pop-Up Experience at 95 Keerom and Gords’ visit

Last week was really busy and quite chilly but filled with happy, delicious moments, too…

Wednesday, 4 April 2018: Autumn Risotto Pop-Up Experience at 95 Keerom and Gords’ visit

I’d been invited to review the Autumn Risotto Pop-Up Experience at 95 Keerom on Wednesday afternoon, so of course I accepted the offer. Each bowl was delicious, especially accompanied by Steenberg Wines’ finest.

The food and the drink. Yes, I ate all this. Click through for details and full descriptions in my official review on Bizcommunity.

Gords, one of Husband’s oldest friends from our Joburg days, was in Cape Town on business on Wednesday so we jumped at the chance to see him at Husband’s parents’ house. See various happy moments below – yes, the doggies were there, too.

Husband’s Mum cooked up haggis, chilli con carne, potatoes and various veg in honour of Gords’ visit. See how thrilled Bertie was to greet Gords, also see my Mum with Bassie (my parents popped in for a quick visit, too).

Friday, 6 April 2018: Doggies warming themselves at the fire

The doggies warming themselves at the fire last Friday evening.

Sleepy sweethearts.

Precious little Bassie peeping out from under her blankie.

Saturday, 7 April 2018: Coffee-filled breakfast at The Daily

The Daily at Seaside Village in Big Bay had revamped its menu so we went for a quick taste. As it was first thing in the morning, we started with coffee! See various shots of Husband’s ‘con panna’ (espresso topped with cream) and my latte.

To eat we went with old favourites – toasted chicken mayo in white for me, eggs florentine for Husband. See shots of how they were served on the left and after we’d doctored them with sauces on the right.

After a fair deal of weekend admin we decided on an early dinner at The Orient in Eden on the Bay that evening. See various hand rolls, sashimi and maki consumed by Husband, and my cashew chicken dish bottom left.

Sunday, 8 April 2018: Coffee at Reload, breakfast at Tables at Nitida, liquid treats at Pakalolo

We were up earlier than necessary on Sunday so stopped for a fancy coffee treat first thing. The outside seating area at Reload in Parklands is inviting.

See my peppermint-chocolate latte and various weekend newspapers. Sunday morning bliss.

As we’d not seen them the day before, we met Husband’s parents at Tables at Nitida for breakfast. It’s such a pretty spot!

Love the mosaic tables at Tables (lol) – also see my Milo shake;, the general ‘bacon-eggs-mushrooms-tomato’ brekkie ordered by Husband’s parents; my brioche French toast with jar of scrumptious caramelised bananas and nuts; and Husband’s Italian-style chorizo-pepper-feta-spring onion open-faced omelette. No wonder their tagline is ‘For the love of food!’

Tables at Nitida always makes us feel welcome. “May all who enter as guests leave as friends.”

After we’d ‘left as friends’, we stopped in at Klein Rosboom for a look around. The entry table is just so pretty. Insert heart-eyes emoji.

Some of the lovely sights at Klein Roosboom. We found ‘die hang gat’, where you can sit in a swing chair while tasting wine. Such fun!

You can see us peeking into another of the tasting room ‘caves’ at Klein Roosboom in the mirror here.

Much later that afternoon, after lots of manual labour in the garden, we stopped in at Pakalolo on the beachfront for a liquid treat. It was a frosty Castle Light draught for Husband and raspberry virgin daquiri for me. Delicious!

You can just make out Husband behind my virgin raspberry daquiri here. Lol.

Ahh. That’s how you spend a Sunday afternoon. Sipping daquiris and staring at sea views.

Mum outdid herself with homemade gnocchi and a crunchy salad for lupper that eve.

Wednesday, 11 April 2018: Overcast fiery skies at night

Overcast sunset sky at night…

Thursday, 12 April 2018: ‘Feel better’ pastries from Trescatelli Bakery

Cloud-flecked sunrise sky in the morning.

There was a bus strike on Thursday and I wasn’t feeling 100% so worked from home that day. Day made when my parents popped in with delicious pastries! See huge mug of coffee with chocolate and vanilla-cream cannoli from Trescatelli Bakery here. Mmm.

That’s all, folks! Have a delicious weekend 🙂

Table Mountain views and tasty Forries tapas

Last weekend the weather took a turn for the chilly, as you’ll see from our clothing in the pics below. I think it’s fair to say we’re ready for winter though, hopefully with lots of rain!

Thursday, 8 March 2018: Retail marketing trends talk at FCB

Oh how I love the FCB Cape Town offices. All the bright colours and lights and views of the trees outside.

Snacks! Pencils! FCB notebooks! Trees! Click here if you missed my coverage of the session retail marketing session presented by Chicago’s FCB Red.

Couldn’t ignore this eye-catching graffiti on my way from FCB’s office after the talk to the Woodstock MyCiti bus stop that afternoon.

To mark the end of a steady stream of weekend work for both of us, we went out to dins at Doodles that evening. See Husband grinning in the sunshine, his curry-topped pizza, my nachos and latte, and the sunset. Cue heart-eyes emoji!

Friday, 9 March 2018: Columinate research presentation at The Cullinan

I covered Columinate’s ‘measure of tomorrow’ research presentation on Friday, held at The Cullinan Hotel. We were treated to a delicious brunch and there were bicycles galore ahead of last weekend’s Cape Cycle Challenge (formerly known as the Argus}. Click here if you missed the resulting article!

Saturday, 10 March 2018: Forries’ tapas snacks and Black Bull dins

We needed to purchase and price a few products at our local Builders Warehouse so ate in the accompanying Cafe Lacomia. See my chocolate-sprinkled cappuccino with not one, not two, not three but FOUR mini cookies, also my toasted chicken mayo and Husband’s sloppy joe (eggs and mince on toast). Just what we needed!

That afternoon we were on the Claremont side of the world and the weather was quite wintery so we stopped in at the Forester’s Arms for a quick treat. See Husband with his Castle 1895 draught, me with my strawberry shake and delicious foodies in the next photo…

We decided on two types of tapas – the roasted chili poppers wrapped in bacon with a fig glaze (yum) and beef satay – that peanut-chili-coconut dipping sauce is amazing!

We met Husband’s parents for dins at the Black Bull diner, which is roughly ten minutes from both our houses. See my caramel shake top left, the ‘starter portion’ Alabama ranch baked potato (there are two of them topped with cheese and bacon, with a side tub of sour cream) – Mum-in-Law and I each ordered this and each ended up taking a full potato home), the bangers and mash that Husband and his father devoured and the mushroom starter shared by most of the table.

Sunday, 11 March 2018: Afternoon treats at Cup & Cake, Eden on the Bay

Stark Ayres’ Pink Olive breakfast usually means a cappuccino and the made-to-order scones for me, with Husband downing a Coke Zero and the salmon eggs benedict.

Cup & Cake was the venue of our Sunday afternoon treat. You can just see Husband’s cappuccino and my Zoo-biscuit shake, here.

Husband also had some salmon sushi as part of his Sunday afternoon treat at Eden on the Bay.

The view of the mountain from our side of the cape was just gorgeous.

More shots of the lovely mountain that afternoon.

Monday, 12 March 2018: Cat joins Husband and Bassie in the car

Bassie hadn’t been well over the weekend so Husband dropped her off at her usual vet on Monday morning, after an emergency vet visit on Sunday evening. This three-legged black-and-white cat hopped into the car and kept them company while they waited to be admitted.

Wednesday, 14 March 2018: Chilly Cape evening

Healthy, happy doggies waiting for their dins on Wednesday evening. Blanket is another sign of the evening chill that hit.

That’s all, folks! May your weekend feel long and relaxing. 🙂

Elgin sunsets, rainbows and Sup boarding at Old Mac Daddy

While we weren’t at work for the past week in full, it sure was a busy one as we sorted quite a bit of admin, had a mini vacation and still spent quite a few long hours  in our offices…

Friday, 28 July 2017: Creative Mornings Cape Town on the Nasdak

Last Friday I attended the monthly #CreativeMorningsCT session, this time at the Nasdak. Click here to read my coverage on Biz.

Saturday, 29 July 2017: New Village Place Cafe menu, Uni Mil rugby and Orient sushi dins

We were intrigued by the new menu at Village Place Cafe on Saturday morning – note my cappuccino with heart-shaped biscuit and French toast topped with bacon, banana and nuts. Scrumdiddlyumptious, as the BFG would say.

We collected Husband’s brother and dad to support the local rugby team, Uni Mil or ‘Millies’, at Theo Marais Park. The wind was blowing away but luckily the main team had enough bluster of their own to secure a win.

We’d planned an Andrews family dinner that evening to celebrate Spec’s 35th birthday and new job, along with other things. We opted for The Orient at Seaside Village for sushi, and I had sweet-sour chicken with the chocolate spring rolls to start.

Sunday, 30 July 2017: Fancy French toast and sunny Sunday afternoons

We started our Sunday at Poplars at D’Aria in Durbanville. There was a chill in the air so we sat inside even though the outside setting looked very inviting. Note my amazing French toast.

We had our traditional Sunday afternoon treat at the Driftwood Cafe – that’s a custard shake for me and a draught beer for Husband. See the pretty birdie flying overhead and sunset from Mum’s that eve.

Monday, 31 July 2017: One night’s stay at Old Mac Daddy

Following a lazy lie-in it was time to pack our bags as we’d booked a mid-week break at Old Mac Daddy in Elgin. Lol at this photo. The wind was so strong at the top of Sir Lowry’s Pass we decided to include this photo as proof. #Messyhairdontcare.

Hidden in the Elgin Valley, Old Mac Daddy promises a getaway with a difference. Note the Airstream trailers, chilly pool and swing chairs on our porch.

The trailers are highly detailed – we stayed in The Birdie and my parents were in The Dream, which comes complete with scary naked-lady pillow.

Ahh. My favourite. Relaxing with a freshly brewed cuppa java in a peaceful setting. That’s just what we did after settling into our trailer.

Introducing the beach at Old Mac Daddy! You can swing in hammocks, sip a cocktail, take a family photo or try your hand at Sup boarding.

Next stop, off for an explore! Husband tried his hand at stand-up paddling or Supping at the Old Mac Daddy ‘beach’ – he took to it like a fish to water. Not meaning that he fell in, we’re Aquarians so natural water masters, remember?

Husband started talking about ‘bucket lists’ after seeing these bucket lights in the main eating barn at Old Mac Daddy. That’s also where we watched the sunset and had cocktails and dins.

This is the sunset I mentioned. Brittle and wintery.

The dins I mentioned – I went for the jalapeno poppers top left and apple pie-cheesecake (yes, cheesecake topped with apple pie) bottom right, mom had the Mexican burger bottom left, Husband had the chicken-prawn jambalaya curry in the middle and dad had the pizza top right.

Tuesday, 1 August 2017: Rainy doggy beach walkies

It was back to the barn for breakfast first thing on Tuesday. We then spent some time relaxing in our trailer before check out time.

It was a cold, rainy day – see the rainbow we snapped out of the Elgin Valley, and happy sandy doggies after a brief walk on the beach in the drizzle.

That’s all, folks! Have a happy weekend 🙂

Late-summer swimming and buffet breakfasts at the President Hotel

I almost titled this post ‘a tale of two presidents’. Last Friday we both had a day of leave from work so took part in the peaceful protests across the country – we didn’t march to town but stood as part of the human chain in the suburbs while passersby honked, cheered and showed the thumbs-up sign.

But that’s not all we did…

Friday, 7 March 2017: Save SA peaceful protest

We set out Durbanville way last Friday morning for breakfast. It was a beautiful day.

We ended up at Urban Wines, which offers a wide range to buy as well as a few delicious breakfasts…

See some of the deliciousness here. A strong cappuccino, wall of brightly labelled craft beers, Husband’s egg on mushroom breakfast and my Nutella pancake topped with plain yoghurt, syrup and assorted nuts.

We ‘manned’ the corner of Tryall Street and the R27 in Sunningdale during the Save SA peaceful protest from around 10am to noon.

Saturday, 8 April 2017: Review night at the President Hotel

You’re looking at our Saturday morning breakfast at Lacomia in our nearest Builder’s Warehouse. That’s a latte on the left, their chocolate cheesecake in the middle and the bull’s eye fry up on the right.

We spent some quality time with the doggies when we got home as we would not be seeing them that night…

The doggies went to stay at their granny’s house for a sleepover as we were off to the President Hotel in Bantry Bay/Sea Point for the night. They had a fun time sniffling around her garden together before we left.

View of Table Mountain as we left Table View for the Bantry Bay/Sea Point side of Cape Town.

The President Hotel entrance.

Keycards, check. Sunnies, check. Summer pairings specials menu, check.

All the pretty sights inside the President, but the main attraction for us was outside…

View from our room on the fourth floor. One of the prettiest pools I’ve seen, and just look at the Sea Point sea beyond!

We unpacked and trotted down to the pool as soon as possible. Perfect way to unwind!

Gulls sitting on the lip of the the pool and sipping from it.

Sunset at the pool, so pretty with all those lights and the peachy sky.

Cocktails in the gin bar that night, with our toes in the sand on the wooden deck. Not very well lit, I’m afraid, but highly recommended! I had the pina colada on the left, Husband had the Long Island Ice Tea on the right.

Dinner at the Islands Restaurant we sat outside under the stars and ate all of the above (click through to my official review for the full descriptions).

Assorted drinks while we ate the above included a chocolate shake, a glass of red and a strong cappuccino. Mmm.

Sunday, 9 April 2017: Islands buffet breakfast, Sea Point promenade stroll and afternoon sushi stop

When we got up the next morning the poolside lights were still ablaze even though it was 7am, as the sky was dismal and grey. Our moods were chipper though, because were were heading down for a much-anticipated buffet breakfast.

The breakfast buffet at the Islands restaurant in the President Hotel sure is impressive. Look at all the choices!

What we ended up eating – top left is my bowl of muesli, hot oats, stewed fruit, yoghurt, nuts and cup of filter coffee; bottom left is Husband’s eggs on toast with streaky bacon, assorted fish, and mushroom; and on the right my second course – mini croissants, cold meats and cheeses, slices peppers and more bacon. Yes.

Bellies full, it was time for a spot of exercise. Note how warmly dressed we were. This is the plaque stating the hotel was officially opened by Nelson Mandela in 1998.

We made it down to the Promenade for a brief stroll and took this photo as proof, then high-tailed it back to the hotel as we were so windswept.

After checking out we spent more time with the doggies before heading out again. We didn’t feel for much though as it was Sunday afternoon, so simply stopped in at The Orient in Eden on the Bay for a quick snack. For me a hot chocolate, for Husband a double portion of sushi sashimi.

Lupper at Mum’s later that evening included a wonderful chicken briyani and pumpkin fritters in caramel sauce. They were restaurant-worthy!

That’s all, folks. We hope you’re having a relaxing Easter weekend. Don’t miss my full review of our stay at the President Hotel on Biz! 🙂

*Disclaimer: Obviously our night’s stay and meals at the President Hotel were part of our review package. All else came from our own pockets. All enjoyed equally.

Early summer beach icecreams and belated anniversary brunch at Mondiall

Hello, you! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by. We had a household chore-filled weekend last, but still managed a few snappable highlights, as you’ll see below…

Saturday, 3 September 2016: Belated anniversary brunch at Mondiall

You know we love Mondiall at the Waterfront – click here for a reminder of our review of their Winter specials, and here for my love of their chocolate sundae. That’s also where Mum and Dad treated us to a post-anniversary brunch this past weekend. Cuppa with Nespresso sugar while taking in the view from Mondiall = perfect start to a Saturday.

Something I’ve failed to photograph on our previous visits to Mondiall. Champers and real books. Such a nice way to fill a bookshelf to the ceiling.

Here’s Dad looking at the little train trundling past Mondiall. So cute.

The anniversary couple. Teehee. This was the best attempt from a batch of about six attempts by my very patient mom. Husband is Very Serious. I’m not.

Our Daddy’s Deal vouchers meant we got to have two brunches for R89. Two of us went for the Eggs Benedict with bacon, the other two had the Eggs Royale (with salmon).

Bellies full, we wandered around the Waterfront, looking at all the touristy things we usually skip.

How cute is this chess set? The little animals are very well made.

Took a while deciding which direction to go…

Unable to reach agreement on travel destination, in the end we compromised and went back home.

Following an afternoon of mall-things, Husband had a sushi craving. Luckily, John Dory’s had a Saturday sushi special. Happy husband, happy wallet.

And then, home again, it was time for those chores I mentioned, most of which involved gardening. Here’s Bertie trying out the new wheelbarrow.

Sunday, 4 September 2016: Early Summer beach visits

Husband made breakfast at home on Sunday, then we got stuck into more gardening. As it was such a hot day, Husband decided a dip in the icy ocean was a good idea… but he wasn’t in for long. You can just picture his squeals of pain in this pic..

Beach blooms.

Then we had ice cream cones while gazing at the sea. Mine was swirled with coffee cream sauce…

Husband had caramel swirls with his.

Monday, 5 September 2016: Post-anniversary roses

Husband is not one to do things as expected. As such, he ordered this bouquet of roses and choccies to be delivered to my desk at work on Monday – a little over a week after our we had officially celebrated our anniversary. 🙂

That’s all for now, folks! Tune in next week for my next episode 🙂