On my first trip up to Johannesburg in a decade, I was treated to a fantastic meal at this classy, neighbourhood establishment. The location for this gem is rather low-key, but being foodies, we were attracted here by the culinary delights that Chef and proprietor (always a good sign) Marthinus Ferreira prepares. As you enter, you relax as the muted, subdued shades of greens and browns set the tone for a cosy affair.
This accomplished chef has worked with the likes of Heston Blumenthal and Gordon Ramsey and these influences are reflected in the array of well crafted dishes on offer. For starters the 'Roast vegetable tart' tasted great and consisted of a medley of slow cooked pepper, aubergine, baby marrow and tomato, topped with parmesan shavings and drizzled with a red pepper coulis. To follow, for main course, I decided on the roast quail and braised cabbage served with a raspberry and quail jus.......simply sublime. No restaurant experience would be complete without attentive but not smothering service, they pulled this off with ease.
A point of difference at DW11-13, and a definite trump card in my opinion is the well thought out and constructed wine list featuring a number of boutique wineries. It is both concise and balanced, complimenting the menu perfectly. The mark ups are also incredibly reasonable, therefore encouraging a second bottle- a breath of fresh air.- Guy Harcourt-Wood.