Kitima

Where East meets West

Standing in front of the traditional Dutch exterior of Kitima, Asian opulence is the last thing you would expect to find hidden behind its rustic doors. But inside, elements of Eastern culture emanate from every corner:  dark wooden floors, rich tapestries, Asian statues and ornamental furnishings that call to mind the beauty of the Orient.

Situated on Kronendal Estate and dating back to the 16th century, Kitima is the oldest and only surviving example of Cape Dutch architecture in the Cape Peninsula. It was the first farm built in Hout Bay, and such rich, colourful history is not without a hint of scandal.

According to the legend, Dutch colonel Sir Abraham Josias Cloete took ownership of the farm in 1835. His daughter Elsa fell in love with a British soldier, but her father forbade the union.The young soldier is said to have hanged himself from a tree in Oak Avenue. As the legend goes, Elsa died shortly afterwards from a broken heart.

Today, it’s believed that the two lovers still wander Kitima’s halls, and in remembrance of the pair, a table with flowers and food is laid out every evening.

Though this popular haunt is all the more attractive for its interesting decor and juicy ghost tales, in actuality, it’s real allure rests in its excellent Thai fare and romantic atmosphere – the restaurant consists of various little nooks and crannies that make for ideal intimate spaces.

Additionaly, founders Eed and Tim Harbich and Kitima Sukonpongpao have done an excellent job of setting certain service standards, and from the time you enter until the time you leave, you can’t help but feel like you’re a very important person here.

And as far as the menu is concerned, a broad selection of exotic Thai flavours will tickle those taste buds, and wine has been carefully selected to suit the powerful taste of the Asian cuisine.

Alternatively, if you only want to whet your whistle, a creative mix of colourful cocktails are available to help you usher in the evening. Choose between a Chocolate Chilli Martini, Tiger Milk, or a swing back to the good old days with an Old Fashioned. Cocktail prices vary from R25 for an aperitif, to R80 for their famous Prince Siam, which contains Cognac, Cointreau and sparkling wine.

So whether cocktails or ghosts tickle your fancy, Kitima has something for everyone.

Tip: Make sure to try their Sunday all-you-can-eat buffet. For R195 per person, you are spoiled for choice, and can binge on anything from sushi to dim sum and Thai curries.

The bill: Sushi platters: R120 (14 pieces) – R275 (28 pieces); Dim Sum: R32 – R40 for 4 pieces; Mains: R70 – R125; Desserts: R28 – R45.

Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays: 6pm – 10:30pm. Sundays: 12pm – 3pm (buffet only).
Kronendal Estate| 140 Main Road| Hout Bay| +27 (0)21 790 8004/6

by Adri de Kock

Make sure to visit our website for a look at all the nightspots Hout Bay has to offer.

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