Since 2010, Jacques Erasmus has built up a Cape Town institution in the form of Hemelhuijs – a glorious coming together of food, art and interior design that is open for breakfast and lunch.

Yes, it’s located in a bustling part of the city, but I found there to be a certain stillness about Hemelhuijs. Not that the eatery lacks a lively atmosphere because it certainly has one – but for me that slower pace of life is prevalent here. Hemelhuijs is a beautifully put together breakfast and lunch spot that receives rave reviews on their Facebook page and Zomato.

If you’re looking for a pick-me-upper, try one of the invigorating, and brightly coloured juice blends. The refreshing selection of freshly-squeezed juice makes for a healthy accompaniment to Hemelhuij’s  hearty breakfast and lunch options.

hemel020

Upscale, with emphasis on seasonal, wholesome and imaginative can best describe the thinking behind Hemelhuij’s menu. I was thrilled to find a fresh porcini dish on the menu – the mushroom is somewhat seasonal and can be found in a select few pine forests around Cape Town around this time of year. The sauteed porcini was perfectly presented in a salad along with pear, quince, pomegranate, arugula and Gorgonzola cheese. This Chef meant business.

For mains, I went with the (hunger-busting) brisket burger – a  dream of a sandwich served open-top with generous helpings of brisket, served with a side of wedges. Jacques has done an outstanding job of the menu and I’m set on visiting again soon to try several other interesting-looking items I spied.

Hemelhuijs - White fish in coconut milk with noddles, ceylon spices, hearts of palm, shredded herbs & shoots (2) LR
White fish in coconut milk with noodles, ceylon spices, hearts of palm, shredded herbs & shoots.
Hemelhuijs Winter Salad - Maple baked parsnips with whipped herb cheese, navel orange, prunes & mustard dressing LR
Hemelhuijs Winter Salad – Maple baked parsnips with whipped herb cheese, navel orange, prunes & mustard dressing

Part of Hemelhuij’s charm lies in the interesting (read: tasteful) crockery, art, preserves and other foodstuffs adorning the inside, all of what you see is for sale. An interesting fact about this Waterkant Street locale is that its interior is completely temporary – makeovers occur fairly regularly due to replenishment of items for sale, transforming the look and feel of Hemelhuijs yet retaining the same attractiveness.

new product shelves 1

It’s my personal belief that Hemelhuijs is in the top 10 of breakfast/lunch spots in greater Cape Town. Go see for yourself – the reviews don’t lie, and neither did this one.

OF NOTE
Where 71 Waterkant Street, CBD
When Monday – Friday 9 am – 4 pm, Saturday 9 am – 3 pm
Contact +27 21 418 2042, www.hemelhuijs.co.za/restaurant

Photography Courtesy

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