Not everybody likes that eyes-watering, nose-running, throat burning sensation that follows a good dose of chilli. But as the days get colder and the drizzle turns into a hailstorm, a little heat isnโt a bad thing. ย In fact, any food that forces you to take your jacket off in these cold winter months is a winner.
In case you donโt know where to find that special winter warmer, hereโs a rundown of the best places in Cape Town to test out the resistance of your taste buds.
Toniโs on Kloof
The cuisine is Mozambique-Portuguese, which means they do anything from prawns to chicken and they do it hot! For the real dare-devils forget the hot sauce, try the extra extra hot sauce. Made with chilli, garlic and parsley, its sure to cause a tickle in your throat and possibly leave you gasping. Famous for their peri peri chicken, Toniโs also offer a chicken and prawn curry for only R59. This small, bright yellow restaurant also boasts a fire and efficient friendly staff.
(Find Toni’s on Kloof at 88 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town. Telephone: +27 (0)21 423 7617).
Masala Dosa in Long Street
offers a wide variety on Indian dishes in a Bollywood styled location. On the walls are an assortment of oddities, ranging from a pink elephantโs head to two life sized statues of an Indian man and woman. This just adds to the vibrant feel of the restaurant. Masala Dosa bills itself as Indian-inspired, โfragrant foodโ so the food isnโt as hot as some of the more traditionally Indian restaurants around, but itโs still a good choice for winter. The hottest food available is probably the dosas, thing crispy pancakes served with spicy soup.
You have a choice of fillings ranging from the Traditional Masala Dosa filled with sautรฉed potatoes( for only R39) to chicken fillets (R55) and even deboned leg of lamb (R65). Also if you have a sweet tooth or are feeling experimental, try the Sweet Dosaย filled with either chocolate or chocolate chilli. ย Iโd also recommend the milky chai to drink on cold days.
(Find Masala Dosa at 167 long street, cape town. Telephone: +27 (0)21 424-6772).
Wang Thai in Constantia
Cosy and warm with wooden tables and chairs, Wang Thai in Constantia is another amazing find. Consistently busy, Wang Thai boasts an exhibition kitchen where you can watch the preparation of your food while marveling at the skill of the Thai chefs. All the chefs are from Thailand, as are a lot of their spices and ingredients.
It doesnโt get more authentic than this. Order the Angry Duck just for its name or if youโre feeling adventurous try the Panang Red Linjee, which is duck slices and litchi in a reduced panang curry base. If this doesnโt set your taste buds on fire, nothing will.
(Find Wang Thai at High Constantia House, corner of Constantia & Groot Constantia Roads, Constantia. Telephone: +27 (0)21 794-0022).
Other hot spots include Panchoโs Mexican Kitchen in Observatory, where you can have a chilli popper or ten, as well as The Bombay Bicycle Club (of Madam Zingara fame) with its signature chocolate chilli steak.
Hereโs hoping you stay warm this winter!
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