 |
Reviewer: mac
Reviewed on the: 16/11/2006 15:03:16
Overall Rating: 86% |
Atmosphere 
Decor 
Value for Money
Service 
Stars
|
Food
Wine 
Music
Transport and Location
Overall Experience
|
La Perla is one of Cape Towns oldest restaurants, celebrating their 50 anniversary in 2007. It shows... no, not like it's old and crusty, like it's a well oiled machine that produced good food and fast, attentive service.
Now when we arrived it was after having had quite a big night the night before, and having rescued a kitten (long story, and yes he has found a home). So we were both not feeling like stuffing ourselves, and were in fact quite willing just to dive into the main course, but Seelan comes over to have a quick chat with us, and suggests to me that I have the crayfish starter... well who am I to object? The atmosphere here was pleasant, with the outside terrace looking over the sea, giving it a very holiday feel.
The decor is legendary, with those wooden chairs being known all around the world, however I was slightly disappointed about the school class room chairs that we sat on outside, mostly because i had high expectations, because they weren't uncomfortable.
The value for money is actually very good, with them catering for all budgets, of course serving seafood of the quality that they do it can get expensive, but there are also bank account friendly pasta dishes available.
The service was really good, quick and friendly, I also noticed that the average patron was getting exactly the same service from their obviously experienced staff.
La Perla have won numerous awards through their years of being open, but perhaps a more important accolade is the stars that have been to eat here. Including Samuel L. Jackson and Sting, amongst a long list.
The food was good, and of course serving me crayfish will always get you an extra mark or two. I was surprised to see a Italian restaurant not serving pizza's, but when they have a selection of seafood like La Perla, pizza is not essential. When we said that we wouldn't be having pudding because of being over full and they brought out a platter of fruit and ice creams on ice, it was definitely one of the highlights.
The wine list is both extensive (one of the longer lists I've seen) and impressive with out being to harsh on the pocket.
The music was really good, I must say, very eclectic, but good and fitting.
The location is awesome, with trees in the middle of the outside terrace, and looking over the sea... however the fairly main road running right next it is the only reason that they didn't get 10 over here. Overall this was a really good meal and service was excellent |