Teeming with personality and atmosphere; Town, a dim sum and beer bar, is a concept food bar that opened in Work Shop New Town at the Newtown Junction precinct earlier this year, and it’s been gaining popularity ever since.
What’s going on?
A tapas-style eatery at its core, Town is all about fresh, light dumplings with delicious flavour and filling combinations. Popular favourites include chicken and coriander, spinach and cream cheese, or pork infused with cider and fennel – but as the focus of the menu is on fresh, tasty ingredients, it changes often as different foods come onto the market seasonally. All veggies and herbs are sourced from organic gardens, and all of their ingredients are locally sourced, right down the Salmon Trout from the Lesotho Highlands and the delicious gluten-free dough.
The big names:
Having been opened by some of South Africa’s biggest and most impressive names, it’s no surprise that Town Restaurant is as chic as it is delicious. Owners include media industry peers Gary Cotterell (former editor at Wanted), Zanele Kumalo (editor of Grazia), and Zodwa Kumalo-Valentine (former Mail & Guardian arts editor), as well as accounting giant Marcus Botha and Dim Sum First’s Sbu Msongelwa – a definitive roll call of inspiring movers and shakers in SA. With a specially designed Gregor Jenkins bar dripping with hanging ferns and dotted with gold tables and stools, it’s pretty impossible not to feel sophisticated when hanging out in this spot.
And to drink?
Far from just a trendy food destination, one of Town Restaurant’s many highlights must be their diverse drinks selection. Light, Asian beers and whiskies find their home among a selection of great wines at affordable prices, local gins, and sake cocktails. And if you’re looking for something a little more appropriate for your mid-morning visit, barista Kudzi Ernest creates delicious coffees every day. And as the lights dim, resident DJs and music selectors Zanele and Zodwa will bring the party as they spin the decks alongside other guests and DJs, making for the perfect start (or end) to your night on the Town.
071 295 9241
Words: Lucy Sarah Heaney | Images: Supplied
