Carnival Court

All Things Bright and Local at Marco's African Place in ...

+27(0)21 - 423 9003 ‎
255 Long Street | Cape Town
www.carnivalcourt.co.za
info@carnivalcourt.co.za
carnivalcourt
Carnival Court Long Street

All Things Bright and Local at Marco's African Place in Cape Town

Boy, do South Africans know how to eat

You can't miss Marco's African Place – it's the vibrant orange and black building located in historic Bo'Kaap's Rose Lane. Sowetan born Marco Radebe began his affair with mielies, chicken and maize at a very young age when his father worked as a chef. Despite Apartheid dictating that he should aspire to own little more than a local shebeen Marco went on to become South Africa's first black restaurateur and opened his first restaurant in 1989. He understands the universality of food, isn't afraid to take on challenging dishes and understands the inseparable relationship between African Cuisine and African Music.

As we enter the 280-seater restaurant we are greeted on first-name terms by a smiling lady draped from head-to-toe in traditional African robes. We sink into a comfortable couch next to a fireplace at the bar whilst we browse the wine list with a good selection of varietals from local estates including Paul Cluver, Waterford and Hartenberg. Lively afro-jazz and the powerful scent of game waft through from the restaurant and fill our senses.

A warm, earthy and traditional space

Although a large space with high ceilings the two -storey restaurant is warm and earthy decorated with rustic colours, traditional African prints and characteristic animal skins. It's homely yet the candle-light feels romantic and classic. We've reserved a table in advance and are fortunate to have an intimate table for two on the upper balcony directly facing the stage although the stage is centrally located so most diners will be able to watch the entertainment. The restaurant can accommodate a cosy dinner for two or a birthday bash with a large group of friends equally.

Brian, also dressed in traditional African attire, will be our waiter for the evening. He's an extravert and likeable character who is knowledgeable about which side dishes complement each main course and makes honest recommendations based on taste rather than price. He's intent on making our experience a relaxed one where we can take time to appreciate our food, wine and entertainment.

As we sip on a robust glass of red and nibble on warm sweet bread and butter we browse a menu that showcases the best of South African fare including springbok, kudu, ostrich, pap, samp and beans. Whilst other traditional South African restaurants might be tempted to cash in on Cape Town's tourism industry Marco's dishes are modest in price, yet lose nothing of the quality and authenticity we savour with every mouthful of our sublime dinner.

A glorious belly-buster of a meal fit for an African King

To start with I opt for stuffed green pepper with diced mushrooms, onions and herbed crumbs (R45) whilst my partner opts for Zube's pumpkin soup which is pureed and gently spiced with a rich splash of cream (R48). When our main course arrives we are glad that we have taken some time out to digest the starter as we discover that South Africans sure know how to eat. My partner opts for oxtail curry which is served in a thick sauce and is so tender it literally falls off the bone and I opt for succulent Karoo lamb (R99). We're served a variety of sides including pap, chips, samp and beans, delicate creamed spinach and roasted pumpkin. I haven't left enough room for Mama's Brandy Tart but I cannot help but polish off every last crumb of my main course. It's a glorious belly-buster of a meal fit for an African King.

An afro-jazz accompaniment

As we dine we are entertained by one of South Africa's musical icons Mpho David accompanied by her band Uvimba. We listen to enlightening and joyful afro-jazz and are even treated to some traditional dancing whilst we dine. The band serenades one of the diners with a rendition of 'happy birthday'.

In a city abundant with restaurants Marco's African Place has made a firm paw print with a delicious take on traditional African fare, characteristic decor, warm hospitality and lively entertainment that make up a memorable and special African dining experience. I've already decided what I'll order on my next visit.

By Lisa Nevitt

---

New: Strictly African food in a unique Mzansi-style at Afrobar & Pitso’s Kitchen.

I doubt you'll still be hungry but those with a little extra room should visit our Restaurants Section.

Cape Town Events Calendar
December 2024
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31

Wolfkop Nature Reserve 4Our team’s tip-off: 50% off cottage ...

Completely private cottages with splash pools, hot tubs and more

Palm House Boutique Hotel and Spa August 2024Sublime dining at Palm House Boutique ...

Friday Night Steak Club, Afternoon Tea, 6-course tasting menu & more

Trail's End Bike HotelTeam building, stylish conferencing & ...

Ultimate work-play-and-stay hub, Trail’s End

Two Oceans Aquarium clean up Free beach clean-ups with the Two ...

It happens every single month. See upcoming dates

Pear TreeThe hidden seaside bistro on the ...

Sushi calamari, miso sirloin & rice krispies milkshakes

mischu 2024Weekends are for mischu

You can get breakfast and coffee with the R99 brunch special

Filini interiorFilini at Radisson Cape Town Foreshore

Tiramisu martinis, lasagne crocchetta and a buzzy rooftop bar

Cannibisters 2024Cape Town’s very own cannabis club, ...

Now with over 90 strains of weed and The Serenity Room

Off-road adventure at Scootours BanhoekBest day ever? Monster Mountain ...

Scootours Banhoek has scooters, vine bikes and archery

Mountain MarketAffordable healthy food at this city ...

Organic fruit and veg, smoothie bowls + small-scale clothes

Milk on the Beach 2024Reasons to visit this beach-side family ...

Ramen by the sea, a build-your-own waffle bar & 5 more

wb6Live music & craft beer at Woodstock ...

Springbok Nude Girls and Arno Carstens play here. Plus the beer rocks

Palm House Boutique Hotel and Spa August 2024This boutique 5-star hotel offers ...

The signature Palm Journey includes a 3-course lunch

Travel MassiveTravel Massive Cape Town event

FREE travel industry event empowered through inclusivity

Honeybee Heroes Be a beekeeper for a day at Honeybee ...

Adopt a hive, learn about bees, take a beekeeping course, buy honey

GiveawaysTravel Tips