You’d be forgiven for thinking you were reading Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat Pray Love” but ironically, the love story has spilled over into this new restaurant – possibly the front-runner for the year thus far. Live Love & Eat is tucked away in a shady part of Senderwood, just off the “main road” that runs through the area. Situated on the 1st floor, you need to climb the wooden staircase to gain access. Once inside, you feel like you are in a large wendy house: wooden floors, asphalt-coloured walls and beach-white tables and chairs give it a clean, classic look. Comfortable enough for a family outing or for a one-on-one dinner with that special someone.
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Live: for today |
The sushi bar draws the focus away from the kitchen area which can intentionally be seen at the back-end.
Having frequented this location thrice since it’s opening, I walked away satisfied on each occasion. Catering for the more upmarket client, prices can be considered above average, but the service and quality of food you receive is well worth it.
Round 1 – our group consisted of D1, B1, C2, M4, myself and family and friends. A large table that was well looked after. Waiters were swift and orders easily and accurately acknowledged. On this particular night, we were still in the grip of winter and it was comforting to receive a small shot glass of gluvine as we arrived – nice touch. To wet our appetites, we were brought a basket of warm olive bread accompanied by a pot of humus. Some of the exciting dishes chosen included rump with a porcini crust, potato fondant and a black pepper sauce, lamb shank and rump with mash, stir fried veggies and crispy onion rings. It also pays to ask for items that are not listed on the menu, as was the case for M4 who ordered a tomato soup starter.
A BIG MENTION has to be the signature dish, which just so happens to be vegetarian as well. Green curry sweet potato spring rolls the size of cannelloni tubes served on a bed of roasted spinach and butternut chunks drizzled with a sweet chilli jam and a handful of pine nuts. I’ve never encountered a dish with these flavours before - mouth-wateringly delicious! Trust me on this one. I could be so bold as to say this is my dish of 2011!
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Round 2 - the return of the die hard food fundi’s – D1, B1 and myself. Starters were salmon sushi rolls and avocado maki. Freshly made and neat. For mains I couldn’t resist the signature dish again, D1 went with steak and potatoes and B1 a chicken salad. Portions are generous and fill you right up. In addition, the Durbanville Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2010 added to the festivities.
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Round 3 consisted of myself, R1, T1 and M2. Two signature dishes, chicken and chourizo risotto with sausages and a classic burger and French fries did not deter us from eyeing the desserts laid out on the counter. One giant meringue and a slice of baked chocolate cheesecake was served with a round of hot, Illy cappuccino’s.
All dishes are lovingly combined and presented to clients in an eloquent fashion. A definite thumbs up.
Love love love: the food arrives together no matter the number of guests per table, small details matter and every care is taken to ensure your gastronomical experience is one to be remembered.
If I had to poke at some downfalls I would say that only a few potato slices accompany the steaks and the chocolate fondants are not the best in town. I secretly know where to get the best……….but that’s a post for another day.
