Wharfside Grill Restaurant - Mariner's Wharf

The Wharfside Grill in picturesque Hout Bay was our venue for a review on a warm Spring evening. Upon arrival at this nautical restaurant we were warmly welcomed by our hostess Nichole and on the way to our table enjoyed looking at the sketches and historical photographs on the wood panelled walls as well as the nets, wooden barrels and array of artefacts depicting the sea, sailing and ocean life. There was a mast hoisted on the ceiling and the light fittings resembled crates. The waitrons were dressed in sailor's hats and outfits with stripes.  We were encouraged to tour the venue and look at all the interesting items on display. The restaurant had a spacious wrap around deck outside which would be perfect for al fresco evening dining in slightly warmer weather or for light lunches on breezy days.

Recardo our super efficient, friendly waitron was immediately at our service to offer wine and he recommended a glass of Merlot Hartenberg 2009 and Cloverfield Chardonnay respectively. He also advised that the Prawn & Chilli Soup was a favourite option so we ordered this as well as the Houtbaisse Soup. The Prawn & Chilli Soup was deliciously rich and creamy and very slightly spicy with a hint of coriander and Recardo's recommendation was on the button. The Houtbaisse had a creamy lobster bisque flavour and it was loaded with prawns, fish and potato although the crayfish essence was not overpowering.

My partner could not resist the Fisherman's Basket which is available with or without the lobster. This was a feast for the eyes and included a beautiful selection of perfectly prepared delicacies from the sea. The platter included melt in the mouth calamari rings, delicate and succulent prawns, large, juicy mussels in their shells and an exquisite piece of perfectly grilled Kabeljou which was the star of the Fisherman's Basket. Smothered with garlic butter and served with rice and a bowl of chips this dish appropriately represents the Wharfside Grill offering and fully exceeds all expectations.

I ordered the Squid Steak which was served with rice, garlic butter and a freshly prepared Greek salad on the side. The squid had a delicate crispy exterior which perfectly complimented the light and buttery interior and it was served in a double layer which was so large that I was unable to get more than half way, as delicious as it was. This was an excellent and most enjoyable choice additionally proving to be excellent value for money at only R85,00. The Fisherman's Basket is priced at R275,00 without the lobster or alternatively R460,00 with the lobster.

Recardo offered us a dessert option that we had to share as we were just too full to order one each – the Crème Brulée with Macadamia nuts. This has to be the Cape's best Crème Brulée. It has a thick caramel layer at the top which hides a layer of chopped Macadamia nuts underneath, with the rich and creamy base beneath that. It was exceptional.

We were delighted with Recardo's excellent knowledge of the menu, the incredible dishes, the warm and welcoming ambiance and the interesting nautical interior.  All in all a combination that provided a memorable gastronomic evening.