Some people insist that Kalk Bay is part of Cape Town; for me it is clearly a day trip from the Mother City. That says less about its distance from CT than about the feeling that one is miles away from it all when in this quaint seaside village … on holidaaaay even! Maybe a little bit like Brighton in the UK, but more of that another time.
The picture-postcard cuteness of the harbour village just 30 minutes from the City Bowl alongside a ‘high street’ of great restaurants, boutiques and treasure troves of antiques and collectibles makes for a gorgeous Sunday out.
The variety and gorgeousness of the restaurants along the main street is well-known and documented, from the trusty and fabulous old stalwarts Olympia Café and Brass Bell to the funkily decorated self-professed king of cocktails Cape to Cuba to La Parada, sister of the best tapas in CT. We resisted the hotness of the clientele at Cape to Cuba in favour of the coolness of the interiors at Sirocco, and were rewarded with ringside seats for some interesting local action and a very enjoyable meal.
The rib-eye with mustard butter sauce was given 10 out of 10 by the dedicated carnivore, although the chips looked and tasted pretty tired and went back to the kitchen almost untouched (with no questions asked; a lack of surprise and interest that makes me wonder); Our discerning pescatarian gave the smoked paprika calamari a 7/10, but the accompanying carbs (a little muffin-shaped serving of rice and vegetables) were a much better effort. The feta and water melon salad was a real crowd-pleaser and scored a perfect 10.
Just when we thought our Sunday couldn’t get better we slipped into our swimsuits and into the seawater pool just 10 minutes walk from the action. Those with a higher appetite for risk and tolerance for cold can avoid the crowds by taking a dip in the icy sea at the neighbouring Danger Bay. Too rocky and cold for me. Anyway I prefer the reality-show-like madness of being confined behind a man-made wall as the tides wash in and out of the sea pool.
I left Kalk Bay feeling totally blissed out, and am already looking forward to my return. I plan to spend more time in the treasure troves and check out one of the many other dining options … maybe an early morning swim and a coffee and a crepe across the road. Watch this space.
Kalk Bay book store makes me HAPPY!!!!!
You are a discerning guest and for you there will always be a seat, a suit of clothes and a salt water pool in Kalk Bay. X A Local
Hi – sounds like great fun!! Please can you send me a larger version of the Danger Bay sign. am interested in what the dog rules are. Particularly the one top right.
Much appreciated!!