MAZZA AND LOCAL AT HERITAGE SQUARE
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Local at Heritage Square is a carefully curated collection of edible options, to be paired with your drinks of choice. This brainchild of chef Liam Tomlin is a sure winner. Enter from Heritage Square parking (easy), you will be welcomed by a plethora of fresh fruit and veg, deli items and stylish serving ware before being distracted by an immense array of books for cooks. The concept is a winner – make your choice of food, perhaps simply oysters and Champagne, and proceed to the courtyard or tables (downstairs) to enjoy. There is also La Cantina, a casual eatery offering classic Italian tapas, charcuterie and cheese. The choices are endless.
A-MAZZA-ING
Climb the stairs for elevated flavours – a small line of intimate tables and a bar overlooks the bustle below, facing the original windows from the slave quarters. This is Mazza, where Middle-Eastern tapas is slickly served – start with Taboon flatbread served with crispy, roasted chickpea hummus, and the marinated olives with smoked tomatoes. The Turkish lamb koftas with mint labneh are brought to your table gently smoking, and the whole roasted fish with ras el hanout and charred lime is perfect to share. Be sure to order the smoked cauliflower with basturma, pistachio and yoghurt, and the roasted aubergine with Hawaij, whipped tahini and raisin puree – both exceptional dishes that are simple yet robust, the perfect testament to Liam’s penchant for punchy flavours. Try one of the three traditional desserts, or head downstairs and grab an artisanal ice cream on your way out. Dishes are seamlessly served from the open kitchen, where chefs Geoffrey Abrahams and Teenola Govender are showcasing their talents for tapas gleaned at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia.
No reservations. Open Monday to Saturday 12 to 9 pm.