I’ve always wanted a house on the beach, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Robyn Simpson. There’s something delightfully intoxicating about the sound of the waves and the scent of ocean air. Equally intoxicating but much more delicious than a salty mouthful is a Coronarita cocktail at Beach House restaurant in Camps Bay.
Ideally positioned to stroll off the beach and into the bar, this spot is the place to relish in summer’s season finale. The interior is light and bright, sporting a set of bedazzled angel wings set up perfectly for an Insta snap. Otherwise, it’s all wood, white and tapestries — roping together the quintessential beach vibe.
Quintessential? yes. Mainstream? No. The man beyond the beach sand is Steve Maresch and he’s added another jewel to the sparkling crown that is Camps Bay; one that doesn’t just look pretty. The food, service and atmosphere live up to the location — a difficult task that’s delivered a warm smile and passion for people.
The luminescent setup, coupled with groovy music and the coolest hosts at the door, Tino and Wellington, make it difficult to stroll past. In fact, whilst sipping my cocktail and waves rolling, a group passed by and all of them — about four gents — couldn’t resist lowering their sunglasses to get a glimpse inside the oyster that is Beach House.
If the flicker of an angel wing in the sunlight doesn’t catch your eye, the aromas from Chef Alex’s kitchen sure will. The menu is jotted down on a chalkboard and delivered to your table by a friendly waitron. Tash recommended a selection of smaller dishes, perfect for people like me who want to taste a little bit of everything.
The calamari is delicious. Light and crisp with none of that too-much-oil nonsense. It’s a rarity to enjoy fried calamari that’s both tender and still tastes like calamari (not just butter). The fresh tubes and baby tentacles are perfect for holding onto the creamy mayo served on the side. I had to have some fries on the side, because fries, and they were textbook.
If you’re keen on something different, go for the Korean fried chicken tacos. Sweet and spicy, robed in an in-house tortilla. You’ll be served two, perfectly sized for sharing, tacos. To complete a trio of things to try, and if you’re lucky, Chef Alex will have some mushroom arancini on the go. Absolutely delicious and should definitely be a permanent resident on the menu.
If you’re not keen on sharing (understandable considering the standard of food and moreish flavour delivered), go big. I’ll definitely be returning to Beach House to try the grilled prawns with salsa verde, salmon vodka penne, and line fish with lemon butter and chilli cream. When by the sea, right?
Beach House also serves a phenomenal steak, seafood platters and something sweet to round it all off. Although, given Marc’s insane cocktails, a third coronarita is dessert enough for me.
Beach House is passionate about supporting locals and keeping things seasonal. So, offerings are subject to change. View the current food menu here and the drinks menu here.
As if you needed more reason to visit, Beach House often hosts local and international DJs. The beachside boogie you didn’t know you needed. Follow Beach House on Instagram or check out the website for the latest events listings. Keen to throw your own party? There’s a gorgeous space on the second floor of the eatery that’s available for function bookings. Mail [email protected] for more information.
Beach House is the beach house I’ve always wanted. Except this version is a trendy restaurant located on one of Cape Town’s most iconic oceanside strips: Victoria Road in Camps Bay. There’s no better place to soak up summer’s final days.
- Location: Shop 3, The Promenade Shopping Centre, 85 Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Bookings: 082 568 8945
Also read:
Heaven on earth is guaranteed with this lavish Camps Bay villa
Picture: Cape {town} Etc
