Hudsons on Somerset

If you like Burgers there really is only two places where one can go in Cape Town and truly enough a wholesome, and relatively healthy burger; those are Royale Eatery and Hudsons Burger joint.

Yesterday the new Hudsons- on the corner of Somerset and Portswood Road in Green Point- was calling our name to be tried out.
After having taken my friend to Royale Eatery several month back he was aching to try out the much raved Hudsons, and the new one was the perfect opportunity.

Situated across the road and next to the Cape Royale Hudsons on Somerset has taken over the corner spot which was previously occupied by Melissa's and Bravado. Some consider that corner cursed but if Hudsons keep up to their great standards business should not be a problem.

With an improvement to the menu; seeing new burgers being offered, starters, sliders, salads and even pizza's there is much more to choose from. I opted for 'The Game'. As the name suggest it is an ostrich patty topped with cranberry sauce, goats cheese and rocket. It was scrumptiously delicious and a great pleasure to see ostrich patties being served on the menu.

Royale Eatery only offer one type of burger with the ostrich patty whereas Hudsons can add it to any burger you desire. Very happy customer!!

While my friend decided to go for 'The Player'; a beef patty that had bacon, avocado and feta on it. Sounding more like a pizza topping he said the burger was really tasty and he enjoyed it very much. The food overall was full of flavour, well presented and a definite winner.

The service however was a bit of a let down as the waitresses seemed unsure of themselves and once we had eaten they never bothered to ask us if we wanted dessert or coffee. After failing to grab their attention to ask to see the dessert menu the bill arrived in fornt of us without even having asked for it. This was a bit of a let down but it is still early days and I am sure it will improve with time.

Nevertheless Hudsons comes as recommended restaurant for the Burger lovers and for anyone keen to have a chilled night eating good wholesome food.

Sizzling Summer Vibes

To all the fabulous Cape Townians it certainly looks like summer has decided to finally bless the beautiful "Mother City" with scorchers of hot days, followed directly by a fogged in day which is bound to be taken away the pumping South Easter. Yes, summer is definitely here and what a fabulous summer it will be.

There is so much to do this summer as Cape Town is hosting event after event, latest fashion trends are being worn in style and of course Christmas is just days away. Cape Town just keeps on getting better with each passing season making it no surprise that it is one of the top tourist destinations.

From now up until the New Year comes upon us in full force there are several events that CANNOT be missed. Whether you prefer to have a relaxing day in the gardens having a picnic, or trancing it up at one of the wine farms, or simply lounging in the sun and enjoying a few sundowners and a good meal Cape Town certainly has it all.

This weekend sees Trance Heads stomping it out at Awesomeville on Saturday 11 December through to Sunday afternoon. This psychedelic trance party sees hot international and local acts bust the decks with the likes of D_Maniac, Commercial Hippies, Snitch and Headroom playing. It is the second last trance party of the year before Rezonance sends all the hippies into the New Year on the December 31 through to January 2nd.

If you prefer a more relaxing day and being one with God's greatest gifts; Nature and Music, the Kirstenbosch summer concerts are the way to go. Pack up a picnic basket, grab a bottle of bubbly and some blankets and head down to Kirstenbosch gardens where every weekend there is a different band or artist. From Carols to Candle Light, to individual musical geniuses or rock bands there is something for everyone. For the Concert Line-up click here

While the Fairest Wheel at the V&A Waterfront is still up and running and is something that must be tried along with the ice-rink that has been put up outside for the duration of the school holidays. Table Mountain are also offering half price tickets at Sunset which is perfect to take your loved one for some sundowners before going out for a divine dinner. Finally the Wine lands are always an option with Stellenbosch and Franschoek producing some of the World's best wines and cuisine; a day out in mountainous suburbs cannot be missed!

There is so much on offer in Cape Town and it would be a pity if one never took the opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and not do something they haven't experienced yet. Life is now, go live it. My motto has always been; Take risks: have no regrets.

Cape Town's Secret Gem: Cafe Max

When it comes to food there is nothing I enjoy more than stumbling across tiny and relatively unknown cafes and restaurants that serve good, wholesome, fresh food. Today I decided to head back to a good old favourite that I hadn't been to for some time, and boy am I glad I went.

Previously known as Cafe Maxime, which opened in 2007, it has now been re-changed to Cafe Max. Located in Waterkant Street, Cafe Max is off the beaten track of all the other well-known places in the De Waterkant area, but the food is just as good, if not better.

I first tried Cafe Max when it first opened and instantly fell in love with it's quaint, girly feel to it with silver and pink stripped walls. The lamb burger with roasted balsamic cherry tomatoes was an instant winner for me then but the menu has changed since then.

Breakfast is now served all day for those wanting to get in their egg and croissant fix for the day or you could create a Meze platter for two or three people, as well as choosing from a list of Max favourites or the menu of the day.

It was so difficult deciding what to opt for as the relatively small menu was bursting with so many different temptations. I decided to go for the Chicken salad dressed in freshly made Honey and Mustard dressing.

As far as Chicken salads go this was the most amazing one I have ever had. The chicken breasts were cut into slithers and freshly cooked in the kitchen so upon arrival the actually chicken was so warm and tender. The salad was sprinkled with cashew nuts caramelised in the honey and mustard dressing with avocado cut on top. The actual dressing was a proper concoction of honey and whole grain mustard that was made fresh as it was also still warm when drizzled across the chicken and the salad. The tastes of the fresh honey and msutard dressing with the warm chicken, soft avocado and crunchy cashews just blended so well together as all the different textures left me feeling highly satisfied and glad that I returned.

My mother ordered the crepe of the day. This was a generous helping of a large crepe filled with sweetcorn, cherry tomatoes, artichokes and some melted Parmesan shavings. The dish was as appetising as it sounds as once it was cut into the Parmesan and sauce came oozing out with the colourful vegetables.

The service was good and friendly as we were greeted by the Chef and the waiter upon arrival. The gentle smells of the kitchen slowly drifted through the restaurant making us more hungry. t certainly was a delight returning back to Cafe Max and I will be sure to return again.

Synergy, You Beast!!

I could never understand the hype surrounding the whole outdoor, weekend party experience. Mud and grass in all places, the hard floor to sleep on, dirty toilets and showers, and a 72 hour long booze fest definitely did not sound like my cup of tea. Though I admit there was a tinkle of temptation to find out why it was so highly rated.

With University exams finally over I decided to hit one of the biggest festivals for an awesome post-exam party, Synergy was the way to go with an impressive line-up of local rock bands and some electro and drum and bass artists that were guaranteed to knock everyone’s socks off the temptation was at an all time high. I just had to look beyond the whole camping thing for two nights.

When we arrived on Friday afternoon in Franschoek the heat was at its peak. It is still surprising how we managed to take carry all our bags from the car through to the camp site and still set up camp. The sweat was dripping from each beautiful specimen there; disgusting I know, but this was Synergy, and everything goes in Synergy!

Disappointingly the entrance into the main area was delayed as Feeder still has to do their sound check. With little shade available and the pelting heat exhausting everyone, tempers started to become on edge as all they wanted was to get to the river to cool down. However; once the gates were finally opened all was forgotten and everyone was ready to have a great party.

After a quick look-about at the stages and the stores we hit the river for a quick cool down before deciding to go to the rock stage. By this stage the drinking had already began so spirits were high all round. At the main stage we stayed to watch the Dirty Skirts, Black Hotels, and Foto Na Dans who got everyone up on their feet ready to stomp the whole weekend. There was no denying that the music played was amazing. From the singing, to the guitar solos all the bands rocked and they rocked it hard. But by 10pm the time had come for me to go to the Electro stage to see PHFAT and Hyphen.

Finally after much persuasion on my end to convince the friends to join me, they finally did as they we awed by the sound and the bass that was pumping out of the Electro tent. Psychedelic-Bass rappers PHFAT once again pulled in the crowds as they owned the stage: their song “Big Five” once again a winner amongst the audience.

After a strong performance by the PHFAT boys the god of Drum and Bass, Hyphen, was up next and he ensured that the audience size only increased. Hyphen pumped out some heavy, wicked tunes as the bass shook through the floor up through everyone’s feet; taking over their body and mind (and no alcohol was not solely to blame). His own mix of the Barbara Streisand song by Duck Sauce came on, which was soon to become the Synergy theme song, got everyone pumping even more for the acts to follow. A special appearance from MC Psyke was the perfect touch to Hyphen’s mind blowing beats raising the bar even more for Niskerone and SFR who were closing the set.

Despite the killer electric waves running through our bodies we had to force ourselves back to the main stage to witness Jax Panik’s first live performance. I am a firm believer that you start off with rock and you end with electro and not the other way round, and that opinion is still to remained unchanged.

Departing on such a high from the Electro tent we felt that Jax Panik had to put out one world-class performance to keep us on the music high. Starting with his most well known song “Get up” we thought he may just well pull it off but we slowly started to lose momentum and energy as the songs became less unknown and we struggled to hear his voice above the electronic waves of his band. Despite this I will give Jax Panik the benefit of the doubt as it was his first live gig and he will grow with experience. I will happily go and see him once more. With the live acts over our Friday was completed but the fun was only beginning as we headed out back to the tent to meet up with the rest of the mates. Friday was definitely the start of what was to be the best weekend of this year.

Saturday morning arrives; cold, misty and wet... eish ...the weather reflecting how everyone was feeling: heavy heads, aching muscles, rings around everyone’s eyes, and dirty clothes covered in mud and leaves. Yet a glimmer of a smile could still be seen on everyone’s faces as they recalled the madness, naughtiness and drunken escapades from the night before.

We started off the day slowly, whether that was due to the hangover and sore body or the endless queues I am yet to figure it out. A chilled session by the tent for the majority of the day helped us regain our strength for what was to be another epic night. The line-ups at both the electro tent and the main stage were killer so I ran between sets and jammed where ever I could. Though undoubtedly Mix and Blend got my ball rolling and my energy levels pumping. But Hog Hoggidy Hog called my name as I was dragged to the main stage by the friends to watch some punk- come-ska music. I think I got my full weeks gym work out in the amount of running and jamming I did between the two stages. I am still unsure as to how I managed to not fall once in my drunken state.... yet that does not explain why both my hamstrings still ache today??

Come 21:45 there was no question were I was to be. Following a mass attack by my two guy mates I decided to mission solo to the Electro tent to see Haezer play. I was not going to let a stupid argument ruin the most epic weekend ever. When the Electro god stepped out onto the decks the masses were all around the tent, the crowd was huge and the energy levels were pumping. I somehow managed to squeeze myself into the front centre and I jammed hard to what was the most insane Electro beats. Heazer pulled it off once again and he did it in an awesome style.

I must admit I would hate to have been El Gordo having to play straight after an undoubtedly crowd favourite. Nevertheless the youngster pulled out some sick tunes which kept the crowd pumped. Goldfish the final gig of the night did what everyone knew they would do and play their best most popular tunes. They made the perfect end to what was the most awesome experience ever.

Synergy you turned innocent people into crazy, drunken people, you and with the influence of lots and lots of alcohol took over our minds and body. You broke our bodies but we regained strength for a second round on the Saturday night. I made awesome new friends, experienced the most epic weekend ever, and jammed to the sickest beats I have ever heard. Thank you Synergy, you may have taken some of our memories- but you put a smile on everyone’s face leaving us only wanting more!!

So despite my skepticism about outdoor parties I can now say I understand the hype and I am already planning my next music festival. Rock on!

30 Seconds To Mars. Enough Said.

When you hear the name 30 Seconds to Mars you immediately think insane rock music, powerful lyrics and of course Jared Leto. The band needs little introduction to South Africans who idolise and admire the amazing chords and tunes the band strings together while of course being blown away by Jared Leto's ability to hit certain note that fails 99% of us.

Last night saw the close of 30 Seconds To Mars' World Tour in South Africa seeing them playing one night in Johannesburg and two in Cape Town. The concert was held at the Grand Arena at Grand West Casino.

Out of the three rock concerts that I had the privilege to attend this year Jared Leto and co won me over as they put on one of the most powerful performances ever. From opening up with "Beautfil Lie" to Jared performing a solo acoustic set of "Alibi" in the crowd to their final song of "King and Queens" the rock trio had everyone on their feet the whole night.

The stage presence that Leto has and his endless energy was fantastic to see as he belted out those high notes leaving all the ladies in tears. His acoustic version of "Alibi" singing in the middle of the audience silenced everyone in the Arena as the rock star turned the song it such beauty.

It was a night to remember and for anyone who wasn't a fan before and got to see them live is surely a fan now. Thank you to 5FM and Big Concerts for organising the return of this rock trio, we now wait in anxiety for their next return.

Bread Cafe' at the Bromwell

There is something about Woodstuck that has an air of mysticism in it. It maybe the run down old buildings that are contrasted by modern new office and apartment blocks that have been built, or the variety of different cultures living in the area, or the little Cafe's and shops that have turned a once very dangerous and run down area into one of Cape Town's up-and-coming hot spots. Which ever it may be it is always an adventurous learning curve going there.

Today I had the great pleasure of treating my mom to a much needed mother-daughter lunch session. I couldn't decide where to go but I knew I wanted it to be a place we had never been to before and something rather different, what better place than finding a hidden gem in Woodstock?

I tried to avoid opting for the Old Biscuit Mill as we all know it is a wonderful place; I wanted something that one wouldn't usually go to and I found the most ideal place. It was Bread Cafe' at the Bromwell.

The Bromwell is one of the brightest and one of the many newly upgraded buildings along Albert Road. Its colours of black and red are catching to the eye while its sharp Gothic features leaves everyone wanting to know what's inside.

Upon walking in you are greeted by the reception lady who will show you to Bread Cafe's or to the gallery, art deco shop upstairs. The Cafe's is beautifully decorated with wonderful chairs and couches, while the food from the bakery is on display as soon as one walks in. Leaving one drooling before reaching their seat.

The menu is simple yet brilliant. I opted for the roast beef sandwich on rye that had a coriander tatziki spread on the bottom, while pickled onions were put on top of the beef with a side salad accompanying the dish. The sandwich was beautifully presented and the flavours of the beef were so tasty and tender.

My mom had a very generous portion of a Walnut and Gorgonzola salad that was bursting with colour and it never failed to disappoint. Two huge pieces of their homemade Baguette accompanied the salad with a little dish of Olive Oil and Balsamic vinegar.

Bread is definitely a place that I will be return to soon and it comes highly recommended. Despite the location the building is safe with a secure parking space with a security guard on watch at all times.A definite must for all!

Lets Rock Our Own Daisies!

So this coming weekend Cape Townians will be on a wave of excitement as Rocking the Daisies returns in full force at Cloof Wine Estate in Darling. For the select, unfortunate few who won't be attending- be it for funds, transport or work and university reasons- there are still some things happening in the Mother City that will help ease the pain.

Friday night Fiction Club have created a party for the 'non-Daisies' goers; seeing free entrance all night and drinks at R10 a pop. A fine deal to help take your mind off the rocking party your friends are having in Darling.

Assembly also have a massive gig on where Discotheque presents Electric City with El Gordo and Double Adapter. Entrance fee is R40 (presale) and R60 at the door. This promises to be an awesome night as the line-up is once again top-notch.

Saturday also sees some good entertainment as Newlands rugby stadium will host the Western Province versus the Sharks at 5pm. This allows for a perfect opportunity to gather the family and friends, a couple of beers and some meat and do the 'All out Rugby and Braai day'.

So don't fear should you not be going to Rocking the Daisies, there is still plenty to do in Cape Town, lets rock our own daisies this weekend.

Stellenbosch: Die Wijnhuis

Fine wine, good food and family is the perfect combination for a Sunday lunch out in the farm lands. Today my family and I headed out to Stellenbosch for a birthday treat for my mother. The selected restaurant of choice; Die Wijnhuis, one of Stellies oldest restaurants in the town.

For starters the table had a selected of beef carpaccio, fried and grilled calamari as well as Zucchini carpaccio. The starters where generous portions that were full of flavour and the presentation was pleasing to the eye.

The zucchini carpaccio by far was the most impressive, as it is very rarely seen on a menu, but the dish was tasty itself. With rockets, pine nuts and Parmesan shavings accompanying it with a final drizzled with olive oil was a perfect starter for a hot day.

For mains veal limone, beef tagliata with a mushroom and pepper sauce, ostrich medallions in red wine, chicken schnitzel with linguine and fillet stakes were ordered by the family.

The meat dishes were tender and bursting with juicy flavours as well as colourful to the eye. The tagliata saw a mixture of sauteed peppers, onions and mushrooms lad across the beef that was full of rich but not over powering flavours.

The fillet was accompanied with a sauce of your choice; in this case it was the green pepper sauce. While each main dish was already generous with just the respective protein on the plate seasonal vegetables accompanied the meal that were very crisp and light.

The meals were very generous and for what you pay it is worth the price. A definite recommended as the service, and the food were a winner. It is no wonder why this is one of the oldest restaurants in the little town of Stellenbosch.

Kauai, Camps Bay: A Disaster!

Unfortunately another negative review is on the cards and this time Kauai are being named and shamed.

When Kauai first opened I was the first to embrace the 'healthy' food and the new items it brought to South African food. I loved the whole health concept and the smoothies that had a little something for everyone. Their portions were beyond generous but the quality and variations were great.

Unfortunately I feel that their quality has dropped somewhat. The service is shocking and the food either takes forever or it just isn't as nice as it used to be.

Today I went down to Camps Bay and all we ordered was one smoothie and a coffee. Being lactose intolerant I know that places that offer soya products so Kauai was a natural choice.

Upon arriving there I asked for a coffee with soya milk. They flat out refused to make it for despite their menu saying "we offer soya alternatives". I realise they don't have the actual soya milk and use the soya power (which I fail to see why they don't have the normal milk either) instead but that did not bother me as I had drunk the coffee like that before.

I felt like they were dishing out a 100 and one reasons as to why they could not give me the coffee with soya powder. Finally they gave in and they placed the order.

We waited 25minutes for just a smoothie and the coffee to arrive, while people that had ordered after us and had ordered food received their orders way before we even got served our two drinks. The staff didn't offer an apology, nothing.

But to top it off, the coffee they gave me tasted like dirty water and after two sips I left it there and refused to drink it again. It will be a very long time until I step foot inside Kauai in Camps Bay. A real pity.

Simon's at Groot Constantia

It breaks my heart to have to write this review but I have I feel it is my duty to report on the bad as often as I report on the good as it is only fair.

I first tried out Simon's in Groot Constantia when they opened up several years ago and they left a lasting impression on me. Their burgers were so tasty and tender and the presentation of the food was well done and so colourful leaving me so desperately wanting to return.

Unfortunately it took several years to return but I jumped at the offer to go there for lunch. For starters we ordered the Oysters, Camembert and Cranberry and Blue cheese with fig preserve spring rolls as well as Bobotjie Dumplings.

The Oysters were delicious as well as the Bobotjie Dumplings; they arrived in four tiny parcels with the bobotjie mince inside them accompanied with a yogurt dressing. Unfortunately the spring roll starter was a disaster as the cheese inside the rolls were still frozen. They were sent back and a new batch was brought back straight away

The mains consisted of a the Camembert and Cranberry Chicken burger, a roasted beetroot and butternut salad, and finally Calamari of the day which was deep fried calamari.

The chicken burger was gigantic as it arrived with two huge crumbed chicken breasts, that were unfortunately bland in flavour and the crumbs too heavy to eat; leaving it impossible to eat the full two breasts and burger.

The salad was average as there were only three pieces of beetroot and butternut on the plate with very little goats cheese. If one was to order a salad like this the best places to order from are either Balducci's or Col'Cacchio who have this salad down to a tee.

The calamari where an overall disappointment as everyone around the restaurant didn't enjoy the dish. Complaints were coming left, right and centre leaving the front of house staff totally bewildered and at a loss on what to do.

The coating of the calarmari was so heavy that people started to pick it off and just eat the calamari inside or they just left the dish alone and not even bothering to eat it at all.

It was a real disappointing afternoon as the food was definitely not up to the standards of what it could be. Aesthetically the presentation of the food was mind blowing but unfortunately the cooking let it down.

Let's hope that things improve as they certainly do have the potential to produce world class meals. Would I go back? Yes, I am willing to give Simon's the benefit of the doubt this time and would return one more time to try out the food.

Best Of Thai: Yindees

I will be the first to admit that I am not the most adventurous when it comes to trying food but last night I decided to go for something different and try out traditional Thai cuisine. No better place than Yindees, right?

I loved the rustic, dark atmosphere upon walking in as I was greeted with warm smiles by all the staff members. I had the option to sit at a normal table or on a deck that had scatter cushions and low tables. There was no question about it, the scatter cushions were a winner!

The waitress was great in that we were not pressured to eat at all, and she wasn't constantly coming to our table to ask us if she could get us anything. She read our vibe well in that we just wanted a relaxing evening in which we wnated to talk and take our time in deciding what to eat and drink.

We finished off a whole bottle of wine before we even looked at the menu and breaking all nutritional rules we decided to finally order something at 10:30pm.

Opting for three side dishes; the Satay combo of chicken, vegetable and beef skewers which was accompanied by a very tasty peanut sauce, the duck spring rolls and a vegetable tempura. The flavours where so refreshing and light. While the presentation of the dishes were well done too.

I must admit we dragged on the night as we only left just after 12pm and we were the only ones there after 10pm but the staff were great as we felt under no pressure at all to leave at all, and that was great.

I highly recommend that everyone gives it a tryas it blows my mind as to why I have never been to Yindees before; but one things is for sure I will definitely be returning soon.

Bombay Bicycle Club

My daily routine sees me drive along Kloof street everyday and no matter how much I try not to, I always look at the beautifully decorated Bombay Bicycle club and wish I could eat there one night.

Saturday night I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to go, as it was a friend's birthday. Had it not been the birthday I think I would find myself a year later still wishing I had tried it out.

Just walking into the restaurant was mind blowing itself. Not one table is the same. Each table is decorated with different objects, while the room is so busy with stuff hanging off the walls and roof you spend more time worrying about the decorations than the menu, but that just added to the whole relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant.

Their infamous chilli chocolate steak was a special, along with R99 for a kilogram of prawns (amazing deal), while crumbed veal and a seafood curry was also on the specials list.

I opted for the oven roasted beef with caramelised onion and a cranberry, port, mushroom reduction sauce at R140. The sauce was amazing but I felt the beef could have been more tender throughout. I felt like I was severed two different beef steaks cut up and served on to one dish.

The birthday girl had the chilli chocolate sauce steak. The dish came with three medallions on a skewer with some fried, noodle vibe that looked like something had landed on the dish. Nevertheless I believe the actual dish itself was amazing.


The kilogram of prawns dish was huge, but for the seafood lover it was amazing; definitely hitting the hunger spot.

The desserts looked amazing as the chocolate cigars were definitely the most popular amongst the table. Each dessert costs R36. A warning though, should one wish to bring their own dessert or cake Bombay do charge a 'cakage' fee of R50.

Mixed results overall, but I would recommend a try. The whole ambiance in itself is worth checking out. But be warned prices are high and you might want to make sure you have some money saved before going in.

Beluga Simply The Best

This is a late review simply because of the fact I was hoping to dine at another sushi restaurant and compare the two. The comparison would be between Beluga, the fine-dining, first date, upper-class restaurant to that of a low-key, relaxed, light-on-the budget, student type sushi restaurant.

However; after analysing my funds and realising that I have one hell of an expensive weekend coming up; I would have to fight the colossal sushi craving and put the review aside until the funds are more flexible to spend.

When sushi cravings strike, they strike in full force! Last Sunday was no different, so I decided to take advantage of the half-price sushi and cocktail special at Beluga and what an absolute pleasure it was to dine there.

There is something about fine-dining that just makes me so excited. You get to dress up smartly, as opposed to going to a casual- everyday restaurant, the serviettes are cotton, the waiters are all in shirts and chinos and the ambiance is something that is separate to the usual cafe and restaurant scene.

On previous occasions I have had the pleasure of trying out the seared tuna sashimi, salmon roses, the crab salad as well as the tuna sashimi salad but this time I opted for something different. We decided to go the traditional sushi route ordering the tuna and salmon platter.

The platter consisted of a salmon rainbow rolls, tuna and salmon nigiri rolls and tuna California rolls. Once again the presentation was flawless and the sushi was so tasty: with the salmon and tuna just melting in the mouth.

A real winner of a restaurant, and quite frankly one of the best, if not the best place to have sushi in Cape Town. The specials are on everyday until 7pm, and are well worth a try. Bookings are essential as it is always full with sushi and cocktail lovers.

A tad pricey if you don't use the half price special or if you order something from the normal menu but the quality of the food is amazing and well worth paying for flavours like that. Once again a customer left more than satisfied.

Assembly: Discoteque is Electric City

First of all I would like to thank Cape Town Alive for making tonight possible. Cape Town Alive is an online guide to everything and anything that is happening in Cape Town. It is one of the most updated websites that brings information on any gig or event that is happening in 'The Mother City'.

During the week they give away tickets to certain events and I was extremely fortunate enough to win a ticket to Assembly last night which saw a host of Electro DJ's play some awesome tunes. The theme was 'Discoteque is Electric City' and it really was.

The DJ's were amazing, the vibe was pumping as everyone was having an awesome time once again. I have to admit, I first went to Assembly three years ago and wasn't at all impressed but I since returned about six weeks ago and have been back four times since then.

The Assembly has won me over to such an extent that I have even resorted to buying tickets online so I don't miss out on the events. Week in and week out Assembly never fails to deliver a good evening and I highly recommend that everyone gives it a try.

Next week Friday will see Havana Club Rum presenting Castle Vania. It is bound to be an epic night. Tickets are available online for R60 or at the door for R90. Doors Open at 9pm.

Don't miss it!

Nu Metro's Woza Wednesdays

Tonight I found myself somewhat reminiscent as I strolled into the Waterfront's Nu Metro Cinema which was packed full of people looking to capitalise on Nu Metro's half price movie ticket special. For years now Nu metro have been supplying the public with half price movies on a Wednesday evening, and it has never failed to bring in the viewers, no matter what age.

Why reminiscent? Well, back in the days when I was at school Woza Wednesday was the night to go out on a school night and say you "Yeh, I went out". It gave us a sense of being 'cool'. We never had to wait until the weekend to stay up past 10pm or 11pm; Wednesday was they night.

It was considered our first step into the young adult life before becoming legal because then we could go out to all the parties and drink alcohol, and stay up even later. Therefore, Nu Metro on a Wednesday and Ster Kinekor on Tuesday where the nights to go out.

My mate and I went there to try and watch the much talked about Inception; to no surprise it was fully booked, despite being on air for weeks. Ultimately we opted to watch the Grown Ups which was a fun light hearted comedy and well worth the R18.

It felt just like being back at when I was at school as the smell of pop-corn floated around the cinema, slushy puppies where being drunk and the crackling of sweet papers could be heard in between the odd scene in which there was no laughter.

It really was a good, chilled night out. Much different to what us 21-year-olds usually do and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Willoughby's The Place To Be

Willoughbys, one of the Waterfront's longest standing restaurants and a favourite for tourists and locals looking for a good, well priced meal. Situated next to @Home and opposite Clicks this bustling restaurant lies in the middle of the corridor in the Waterfront, where it turns over tables faster than you can say 'sushi', yet still producing amazingly consistent dishes.

With fish being their speciality, Willoughbys also has a few dishes that cater for the non-sea lovers, which are undoubtedly also worth a try, while their vast selection of wines and cheeses (supplied by the renowned Fairview) caters for all palates.

After a horrid week of running around for everyone my dad surprised me by taking me out to Willoughby's for a 'pick-me-up' dinner. Following my new appreciation for certain fish, I decided to have the crab salad.

Usually a started in traditional sushi restaurants, Willoughby's offers it as a main dish at just 60 bucks. This simple salad that contains no more than five ingredients is scrumptiously delicious and fills the hunger spot up perfectly without making you feel like you have over eaten.

My dad opted for sushi in which he ordered the Rainbow Nation Roll. This sushi looked amazing as it was a California roll that had both Tuna and Salmon together with avocado inside, topped with a dropping of mayonnaise and some caviar.

The colours of the dish were aesthetically pleasing as it really did look like a rainbow. With eight generously sized pieces the sushi stood no chance as it won my dad over.

Once again a winner of a restaurant and it is no wonder why one will always find a queue past @Home's door should one get there after 7pm. Nevertheless, the queue moves quickly and it is well worth the wait. A prompt return is much anticipated.

Bayside Cafe: Camps Bay & Woolies Sale

There is no mistaking why the Bayside Cafe in Camps Bay is one of the oldest restaurants in Camps Bay; their wide menu, catering for all types of foodies, and its decent prices has seen locals and foreigners flock to the road side restaurant.

Today I met a good friend, who I haven't seen in a year, for a good catch-up session. Naturally the Bayside called our name and it didn't fail to deliver. The service was good and the food brilliant as I ordered a Hawaiian chicken wrap and my friend a line fish and grilled calamari combo.

The portions were overly generous and the prices decent, with my wrap coming in at R68 and the the fish combo R98. A side plate was also included that had roasted baby onions (yum yum) and the traditional creamed spinach and butternut.

A wonderful sunny day in Camps Bay as the little village was pumping with people looking to treat themselves with good food and fine weather.

I highly recommend The Bayside Cafe as they also have a free winter meal special that seems to be a winner: might as well utilise the special while it lasts as it will be ending soon.

Finally, I am not one for shopping and least of all one for sales. I find them messy and chaotic and often people just dump the items wherever they deem fine IE: the majority of the time on the floor.

However; yesterday I walked into Woolies at Piazza St Johns and the Woolies at the Waterfront and both where well organised. Items were not piled all on top of each other or thrown on the floor.Making it a plesant shopping experience!

I recommend taking a look at the sale as the prices are outrageously good and the items are, as per usual Woolworths quality, excellent!

Check it out, this should not be missed!But be warned, the spring collection is out too and it is looking as fabulous as ever so you might need to be taking out a mortgage to pay off the bills because it is oh so tempting!

Rock On. Billy Talent!

It is a long weekend in South Africa to celebrate women's day and being a young female myself I have decided to embrace the weekend and enjoy it to its fullest before the heavy studying. The weekend has only reached its halfway point and it has already been one of the most epic weekends.

Last night saw the Billy Talent concert at the 3 Arts theatre in Plumstead. Tickets were sold out weeks before the concert as the eagerly awaited Canadian band made their first trip down to Mother City.

The venue itself was awesome. It is an old, run down ice-rink building which lies in the middle of what looks some what like a junk yard. Holding up to about three thousand people, the rustic look made the concert look like a real underground, exclusive event.

With out a doubt Taxi Violence set the concert alight as the rocked the stage hard, proving once again why they are one of South Africa's best bands. While Van Coke Cartel brought a different edge to the concert, as they performed in Afrikaans, they ripped the stage apart. Putting in a crazy performance that really put everyone in the mood to get to hear Billy Talent.

Marsh pits started and crowd surfing began as the Afrikaans boys won over even the fully English speaking people. Even I can say that- despite not understanding much- that they rocked it hard!

But nothing beat Billy Talents performance. The previous bands were great, Billy Talent was out of this world. sounding even better live than on recording the four band members rocked it hard. The crowd went insane as a gigantic marsh pit formed in the middle. Several at a time could be seen to be crowd surfing as the hall erupted into singing and dancing.

Without a doubt one of the craziest events I had ever been to but one of the best too. The bass kicked it hard, the drums were worked in an insanely brilliant manner and the lead guitar was just out of this world. Not to mention Benjamin putting in a high powered, energetic, rocking performance.

A awesome evening, an epic weekend and it is not yet over!

Pizza? Check! Assembly. Check! Party Time!

It is without a doubt that pizza is one of the most loved food items in the world, and there is arguably few places that serve pizza quite like Col'Cacchio does. Their freshly made, thin crust is cooked to perfection in a genuine wood fire oven. Pizza topping range from all sorts with over twenty different pizza's to choose from. While the pasta's are decent the salads are out of this world offering a new spin on this health meal.

Last year Col'Cacchio started a celebrity chef series where they chose six famous South African chefs to make and create a pizza. Each chef and its pizza was designated a certain month in which it would be on the menu. At the end for each pizza sold 5 bucks would be donated to the Red Cross War Memorial Hospital.

This month saw an Argentine inspired creation as Nicky Gibbs, head chef of Westcliffe, put together the most amazing pizza. Perfect for the lactose intolerant (like myself) this Argentinian beauty contains no mozzarella but sees a host of amazing fresh ingredients on it.El Gaucho has an Argentinian style stew steak, chimicurri, fresh rocket, freshly sliced red onions, rossa sauce drizzled with oliv oil.

I highly recommend this pizza to anyone who appreciates the beauty of combining an array of tastes, and after all it goes towards a good cause, and it is a good way to get the party started.

Following work Assembly was calling my name. After one hell of a jam last weekend, I was keen to hit Harrington Str once more. A pricey entrance fee as tickets were a 100 bucks at the door and 85 pre-sold it was well worth money as the party was electrifying.

The line-up included two huge internationals in the shape of Fuckkkk Offf and Boom Monk Ben along with Cape Town's local boys P.H Fat and others.

The party was pumping as everyone hit the floor in what was one of the best parties of the weekend.

Saturday evening sees Billy Talent, Van Coe Kartel, Taxi Violence, and Philadelphia Grand Jury perform at the 3 Arts theatre in Plumstead. It going to be a rocking party and I am heading there. A full report will be posted up, come the following morning.

Living Under Table Mountain

My name is Rossella, I am a 21 year old female living in Cape Town, South Africa. I am a passionate writer looking to expand out of my traditional ways of writing. What might that be? Well, to be honest it is writing about Italian football. Yes, you heard me.... Italian Football!

Why? Well, my parents are Italian and naturally I have been brought up to live "la dolce vita". Cooking and eating great Italian food, being subjected to having a traditional family Sunday feasts, being brought up with Italian traditions and celebrating the Italian holidays. Everything I have ever known in my 21 years of existence has been Italian!

However; 21-years on I find myself, after 8 trying months, appreciating the Mother City in which I live. Maybe the World Cup had this colossal affect on me or it has been the passing of three dear loved ones, in a short space of time, that has made me realise life it too short. Nevertheless; whatever it may be I have finally woken up and seen the Mother City's beauty and the beauty of its people.

This is why I have decided to open up a second blog. One that will be devoted purely to all things Cape Town that this 'little girl trapped in a big city' is experiencing. I will bring you restaurant reviews, club and music festival reviews and everything else that I, as a 21-year old female, experience first hand in Cape Town.

Lets get this party started!