Get Real at Societi Bistro

Fresh seasonal fare in an inviting and upmarket yet cosy atmosphere

Societi Bistro is a cosy hang-out for Capetonians who seek fresh seasonal dishes. But its growing reputation has caught the attention of visitors as well. Within a short time, it has become a popular destination for every gourmand’s culinary adventure.

Located in a charming Georgian house on Orange Street in Gardens, Societi is informal, yet elegant. A place to relax with friends and soak up the warm vibes of the classic interior. Once inhabited by an eccentric recluse who now “haunts” the bistro, the house has been lovingly restored, opening up the rooms to create several intimate dining areas. On chilly days, an inviting fireplace keeps everyone warm while on hot summer days, the outside garden draws diners for the soothing breeze and uninterrupted vistas of Table Mountain.

Societi also boasts an intimate wine bar called The Snug. It’s stylish and sexy, with plump leather couches and chairs. On the walls hang a collection of vintage erotic photos that must have once been delightfully risqué. But that’s what’s cool about Societi: it surprises with little twists. It adds tasteful touches to a familiar neighbourhood local. This sexy space can be hired exclusively for your next celebration or decadent cocktail party.

Seasonal Flair

Societi is famous for its seasonal produce and local ingredients. Head chef Stefan Marais bases his gastronomic philosophy on this approach. And the result is stunning. In a world where you can eat any type of food any time you want – even when those foods aren’t fresh – Marais gets back to basics. Every three months, he produces a new menu that accommodates the changing seasons, fleshed out with specials that change daily. This allows diners to experience new delights every time they visit.

Popular items include the Caesar salad with anchovy dressing, the mushroom risotto with spinach, the fillet au poivre with Madagascan green peppercorns and brandy, and the organic venison with Amarula reduction. Other innovative dishes fill the menu, complemented by a handful of specials that are suited to changing weather conditions. It’s easy to become a regular with the variety the chef offers.

Societi’s wine list provides choice selections from the best estates and cultivars in the Western Cape. Most bottles cost less than R100 and nearly all are available by the glass. Like the food menu, the selection is supplemented with a rotating stock of the owners’ favourite vintners.

Honest Food

Little wonder then that Societi ranks as a local favourite that is gaining the attention of savvy visitors as well. After all, it’s real food – honest food. And it’s perfect for friends and family to enjoy together.

But Societi has one more surprise up its sleeve: they’ll pick you up from anywhere in the City Bowl or surround areas with their new chauffeur service during lunch time. Door-to-door delivery in a luxury vehicle with a uniformed driver. Now that’s service – that’s passion – that’s the way it’s meant to be! But that’s the norm at Societi. So do yourself a favour and check it out with your friends. Today.

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