Possibly one of the most iconic spaces in Constantia has to be the Constantia Nek “barn” perched on top of the mountain surrounded by panoramic pine trees and boastfully watching over the bustling city beneath it’s feet.
With David Townsend at the helm of this family owned restoration it is clear to see that maintaining integrity to the space and paying homage to it’s history was key in what alterations were made.
I’ve visited both Harbour House and La Parada, since they opened and have found their feet.
Harbor House, a newer addition having only been added in 1974, offers seating for easily 100 people, a large space filled with light from the large windows boast picturesque views of the Constantiaberg mountain range and stark white walls with a focus on incorporating natural elements, raw rustic walls, the on trend herringbone brick work and beautiful light wood “rimpie” styled chairs create an organic experience in this luminous, fresh faced restaurant.
The menu is simple with a focus on fresh fish, sushi, seafood and many of the famed signature dishes served at the Harbour’s edge in the quirky cultured Kalk bay.
Whilst the style of decor is possibly polar opposite there are mirrored similarities like good quality finishes, expansive terraces areas kissed by sunlight, beautiful attention to detail, to the custom made crockery, Delicious food and friendly service.
All the makings of successful eatery and with the ever growing expanse of this group it is easy to see why the food and experience is such a celebrated and coveted affair.
Smoked Tomato Salad oven dried tomatoes, tomato chutney, dill labneh, pinenuts, pecorino, herb vinaigrette
Salt & Pepper Calamari served with garlic aioli and lemon
La Parada offers smaller Spanish plates curated by chef Martin Senekal dishes such as sesame crusted seared tuna with citrus and calamata olives to their famed peppered calamari and beef shin croquettes with sririacha aioli. I ordered three plates which varied in price from R50-R70 a steal considering the complexity of each dish and the fair sized portions.
Wines are sourced from farms in the neighboring streets, Stellenbosch and the Hemel en Aarde spoilt for choice wines from Steenberg, Klein Constantia and Eagles Nest as well as glass wines ranging from R45-R75 a glass.
I popped in over lunch time during the week and the atmosphere was fantastic some business types and a few tinder dates too, probably best to book especially if you’d like a seat outside.
Also, pop in on a Sunday for epic Afro-Pop acoustic sessions with DJ Rene, a well known French Dj on the party scene in the city and If you’re looking for the same style, simple fare and top notch treatment they’ve just opened La Parada Del Mar with the most gorgeous decor in Camps Bay-Perfect for after work sun-downers if you can bare the traffic and of course, find a seat.
Opening times:
La Parada – breakfast served daily from 9-11am
Harbour House & La Parada: Lunch and dinner: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm
Where to find it:
Constantia Nek Restaurant, Hout Bay Road, Constantia, Cape Town
Contact information:
Harbour House
021 795 0688
Book online: https://www.resdiary.com/Restaurant/HarbourHouseConstantia
www.harbourhouse.co.za
constantianek@harbourhouse.co.za
La Parada
021 795 0620
www.laparada.co.za
constantianek@laparada.co.za
Stefanie Sholtz
February 16, 2017 at 12:35 amWhat a beautiful setting-thanks for the suggestion.