The Federal in Melville is to be renamed La Stalla.
Chef James Diack will be renaming his Seventh Street eatery as La Stalla “The Stables” and reopening it as a rustic pizzeria in late March 2018.
We chat to Chef James Diack about the upcoming changes from the menu to decor.
“Since we opened in Melville in September 2016, we’ve noticed a change in what people are eating, and what they’re spending. And, in today’s fast-moving restaurant industry we have to adapt,” explains James.
“We’ve also seen how successful the food and environment at Il Contadino in Parktown North has been, and so we’re going to make La Stalla a mini version of that.”
The Menu:
Rausharn Griffin chats to members of the media while preparing some of the dishes to be served at La Stalla during a recent visit to Brightside Farm.
For lovers of The Federal’s brunch – don’t despair – a range of farm-fresh breakfasts will be available for R75 each.
For lunch and dinner La Stalla guests can choose from a selection of well-priced small plates, a number of wood-fired dishes and pizza options, roasted chicken and fresh salads.
Dessert will be gelato, served in cones or bowls.
“The food will be good, soulful, value-for-money and cooked in a similar style to Il Contadino,” says James.
“We’re installing a pizza oven and all of the ingredients we cook with will be sourced straight from our farm, Brightside in the Magaliesburg.”
James will be working in partnership with Il Contadino’s Head Chef, Rausharn Griffin to operate and manage the establishment. Rausharn has worked alongside James since 2014, first at Coobs and later heading up the team at Il Contadino.
“I’m really excited at the opportunity to work as a business partner with James at La Stalla,” Rausharn says.
“I’ve learnt so much from Il Contadino and now I’m ready to bring something new to Melville.”
The Decor:
Along with having a pizza oven installed into the space, James is also updating the façade and some of the décor – the trademark reclaimed wood-panelled wall and copper-piping will remain.
The Bar:
For drinks, expect OC Brewery craft beer, a wine list featuring some quirky and affordable boutique wines and some interesting cocktails.
“This will be my simplest restaurant to date, and I can’t wait to share the experience with Rausharn, and with Melville,” James concludes.
With his almost 100% sustainability record, James remains the pioneer of provenance in South Africa and a serious purveyor of farm-to-table deliciousness.
DETAILS:
La Stalla will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 07h00 until 10h00 and serve three meals a day.
DIRECTIONS TO LA STALLA:
La Stalla (Previously The Federal): +27 10 900 4876
LA Stalla is located on the corner of Second Avenue and Seventh Street Melville.
