When it comes to rooftop experiences, Cape Town restaurants and hotels always rise to the occasion. – so much so that Capetonians tend to ‘shop’ for rooftop experiences – and I am no different, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Ashleigh Nefdt.
The Radisson RED at the V&A Waterfront has, for years now, been a hotspot when it comes to top-tier rooftop experiences – but what exactly makes it the local and international watering hole that always has its deck populated? I was lucky enough to find out…
First, the gin grin
Inside the Radisson RED lies something straight out of a science fiction film. More than a tourist attraction that leads the curious up to the rooftop, it cultivates one of the most unique tasting and creating experiences you can have in Cape Town.
Its name is the ‘gin cage,’ home to base flavours and apparatus that’ll have you playing mad scientist thanks to the OUI Bar.
This is where you get to make your own gin under the staff’s guidance and embrace the science behind sundowners. Don’t worry; you don’t need to be a former gold-star science student to ace this class.
Inside the gin cage
You’ll first be given a rundown on what base flavours are before you strap in for a tasting. Pro warning: the tiny glass apparatus might look like cute shot glasses, but even if you think you’re the heaviest heavyweight around, don’t take them as shooters because you will come second.
You’ll enter a world of botanical, citrus and herbaceous gin flavour profiles to make your own magic. Ever wondered why certain gins taste better with different pairings? It’s all about the flavour profiles that – just like relationships – either work perfectly or are doomed to fail.
After you’ve done your tasting, you’ll choose the flavour profiles to set the tone of your own gin. I went for a citrus infusion with the special guest ‘HoneyBush’ and the result was silkier than your favourite pair of pajamas, if I do say so myself.
You’ll add your profiles to the base gin that’s already been distilled and blended to become 43% alcohol in a large, overwhelming body. After some pouring and measuring, your very own bottle will be ripe and ready for its own name and your enjoyment (after pairing with tonic and garnishings – can’t forget our gin manners).
Up to the sky
Where do you go to enjoy your new beverage? Up to the sky of course, and the RED Roof bar sports the perfect setting to lounge, gaze and embrace your new career as a gin maker.
Met with views of Table Mountain, Zeit’s MOCCA’s glittering glass pannels and the Silo’s hum of life, you’d be forgiven for wondering if the gin took you up to heaven (it did).
I’ve done my fair share of sunset gazing in Cape Town, and I can confirm that RED’s sun terrace makes it onto my ‘best seats to cheers the sunset’ list.
Beyond the delicious views, The RED Roof bar knows how to serve up the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you’ve never eaten there before, as well as triggers you to start planning your next visit.
The steak and chips is a must-try, and a taste of the burgers led me to believe they’re strong competition for any dish prepared. Pair with your own gin or the Special -D cocktail for the full RED experience, and get ready to relax like the rich and famous.
Ready for your next gin and rooftop session?
- Location: Silo 6, Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred
- Make your own gin creation and tasting booking
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Picture: @radissonredcpt/Instagram
