Saturday was errand day in Ballito for my husband and I and as a reward for sitting in the traffic winding its way down to the Mr Price Pro surfing competition I treated us to breakfast at Zaras Café in the Lifestyle Centre.
Zaras must have the prime spot in the centre; the paved outside area lends itself perfectly to al fresco dining with tables and chairs tucked under umbrellas for shade while the stacking glass doors let loads of light into the interior of the restaurant. It is definitely my favourite spot to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
The menu is extensive with dishes concentrating on classics with a modern twist. The restaurant sources its vegetables and herbs from local farmers; ensuring fresh produce. The Danish pastries are imported and the breads are baked daily, on-site.
Dishes that caught my eye on the menu at Zaras Café were the different omelettes which are served with your choice of bread (I had the Bay Special – pan baked with bacon, caramelized onions and cheddar – R55), pancakes (R20), Belgian oats served with apple, banana, nuts and honey (R35), a Morning Burger (double stacked English muffin with a beef patty, bacon, cheese, onion, grilled tomato and an egg – all of that for R59!), and a Granola basket which is R49.
Also on the menu is French toast (R49), Eggs Benedict with spinach and salmon and bagels with a range of fillings (R72).
For a light meal or lunch one has the option of freshly baked ciabatta rolls with a variety of fillings or alternatively try a flat bread – the sound of the Parma ham, Philadelphia cheese, rocket and balsamic reduction had my mouth watering! The flat breads range from R68 – R92 depending on what topping you choose.
All six of the salad dishes sounded tasty; I probably would have gone for the Mojo which comprises roasted butternut, feta, pine nuts, sundried tomatoes and grilled onions. Other options however include the Herbed Chicken salad, the Pinwheel and the Pigallo.
More substantial dishes include a number of pasta options as well as burgers, pressed pitas and a mutton curry chow – Zara’s take on the Durban favourite, the bunny chow!
A range of cakes, muffins (both sweet and savoury), scones and croissants are also available to enjoy with a cup of tea or Illy coffee. Iced smoothies are also available and Zara’s does have a liquor license should you want to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer with your meal.
Judging by the number of patrons at Zaras it must have a good following – the food and service all playing their part in keeping customers happy. We enjoyed our breakfast and will definitely be back.
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Zaras Café Contact Details
Zara’s is at Shop 90, Lifestyle Centre, Ballito. The phone number is +27 (0)32 586 3204.
