Si Cantina Sociale: A must-visit for food lovers
Image: Sarene Kloren
If you're looking to escape the winter blues and immerse yourself in an atmosphere as captivating as the cuisine, then pull up a chair; Si Cantina Sociale in the Silo District of the V&A Waterfront is calling.
From the moment I stepped inside, the transition from the cold, crisp air to the restaurant's embrace was immediate and delightful.
While Si Cantina boasts outdoor seating that's perfect for warmer days, allowing for a European al fresco dining feel with views of the Silo District, it's their indoor sanctuary that truly shines when the weather turns cold.
The interior is a masterclass in rustic chic, with a sophisticated dark palette punctuated by strategic splashes of vibrant colour.
Living wall murals add an organic touch, contributing to a palpable energy that buzzes through the space, making it feel both intimate and alive.
The interior is a masterclass in rustic chic.
Image: Sarene Kloren
The attention to detail here is truly exceptional, extending beyond the decor to the impeccable service. The staff are the epitome of professionalism – attentive without being intrusive, and genuinely knowledgeable about the menu.
My experience was seamless, testament to a team that clearly takes pride in their craft.
The tapas menu at Si Cantina Sociale is, in my opinion, a stroke of genius. It perfectly marries the casual joy of shared plates with the refined execution of formal dining.
It allows for exploration, for tasting a myriad of flavours without committing to just one main course.
I began with the Grilled Halloumi, a unique and highly recommended combination served on crisp lettuce, topped with piquante peppers and perfectly sliced avocado, all dressed with a creamy yoghurt, herb, and olive relish.
The interplay of textures and the fresh, zesty dressing made it an instant favourite. The Fish Goujons, encased in a light tempura batter and flash-fried to golden perfection, were also a standout - delicate, flaky, and utterly moreish.
And for those who appreciate a unique bite, their Fried Pickles with creamy dill mayo and the crisp Zucchini Fries, showcasing the breadth of their tapas offering are a must try.
Moving onto the mains, the selection caters beautifully to diverse palates. For the ardent carnivore, the Lamb Chops are an absolute delight.
These 400g loin chops, flame-grilled and finished with a fragrant infusion of lemon, garlic, rosemary, and white wine, were tender, succulent, and bursting with flavour.
Seafood fans, will be captivated by the Grilled Kingklip. Served on a bed of fresh rocket, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, the fish is infused with a vibrant blend of mint, basil, coriander, garlic, chilli, lemon juice, and olive oil. Every bite was a burst of freshness.
I also noted their impressive wood-fired pizza oven, producing artisanal flatbreads, with the mushroom and onion variety coming highly recommended – a perfect, comforting option for any time of day.
Should you find yourself too content to manage a full dessert, a classic Dom Pedro with a generous whiskey infusion offers the perfect, indulgent finale to the meal.
To complement your meal, Si Cantina also boasts an extensive cocktail menu and a curated list of South African wines, ensuring there's a perfect pairing for every dish and mood.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, seven days a week, it truly embodies its name – a "cantina sociale," a social hub.
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