REVIEW: JAKE’S ON THE COMMON

The long awaited Jake’s on The Common has finally opened in Noordhoek. Although, perfectly timed to open in the peak summer season in the serine hub of the Deep South of the Mother City, the newest branch of the franchise ran into some troubled water in it’s first weeks, – but has pulled out of the storm beautifully. Situated at the foot of Chapman’s Peak, the restaurant has some of the most beautiful views, offering up 180-degree vistas of pristine Cape Town mountain and horse-filled park grounds.

If you’ve ever been to Cape Town (or lived her your whole life, like I have), you’ll know that a still day without the ghastly South Easter wind pumping is a golden dream. So, we picked the first windless Sunday of the year to try out this new hotspot in our quiet but happening suburb of Noordhoek. Although fully booked, the venue seemed to be a bit empty of tables? But we got a cool table upstairs (although the table we had booked was baking in the sun with only half covered in umbrella shade) for a good couple of us to enjoy a long, boozy lunch.

This place is something straight off of Pinterest. Chic. Modern. Trendy. The decor is on POINT! They got the trend down to the last details of the white marble coffee style tables, the (faux) Fiddle Leaf Figs trees and brushed blue velvet couches. Stunning!

You can tell a lot about a place by their Chilli Poppers. I have pretty much tested all poppers in the city – big fan of the dish! In Cape Town, if you’re confident enough to serve Chilli Poppers – you expect them to be up to a certain standard, you know. (RIP Rafiki’s, you are very very sorely missed!) One of the ladies at the table ordered the poppers – and we were not disappointed! Yes, they had the kick you’d except, but had a smooth and soft finish and kind after-taste. No flames. 100% delish!

I decided to be bold and order the Brooklyn Bake – a small skillet of hot Artichoke, Parmesan & Mayo as a ‘dip’ with fresh French Loaf bread. I’d never usually order anything with mayo in the description, but I wanted to try something new, and my Dad recommended it as he loved it on a previous visit. The only down side to this gorgeous dish was that is wasn’t big enough a portion at R64 but also, because it was amazing and I was left wanting more!

My Step-mom and I treated ourselves and indulged in the deluxe Dessert Platter – Mix of the Best – Triple Chocolate Brownie, Caramel Cheesecake, Bar-One Spring Roll and some Doughnut Holes, served with fresh cream and a chocolate dipping sauce. This could have probably been a fair platter for three to finish off a meal, but boy did we love it. The fridge Caramel Cheesecake was definitely a highlight.

I was very keen to see how some of the other meals and some of the meat dishes were presented too. On the table, we had a starter of Wild Mushroom Ravioli, Mirin-Glazed Norwegian Salmon, a Pork Belly small plate (which was quite bulky served with a large amount of potato mash and a small amount of gravy), the Tasting Platter for Two (I did feel it was a small platter of gourmet snacks for the price, but the couple sharing it loved every bite. They shared this and a small plate for their main meal), and the kids slider burger which my kid-brother devoured!

A locals’ tip? Jake’s is FAMOUS for their Duck – which is never on the menu, but if it’s your thing, do yourself a favour and ask your waiter if they have in stock. Although a bit pricey (currently seems to be at around R250 per portion) – You won’t be disappointed. The Flat Breads & Burgers also come super highly recommended.

Overall, we had a great afternoon. The food was so beautifully presented! From starters, to mains, to desserts – even the kids meal and cocktails. Just really lovely on the eye – and it really makes a difference to your over all dining experience. Service was good and our waitresses suggestions were pretty spot on too. The atmosphere was relaxing – exactly what you need to end off a good weekend. Although a pricey meal out – I’d suggest as a treat for a special occasion, or a light meal with an ice cold glass of a local rosé – just because you deserve it. Bloggers’ orders.

Follow Jake’s Restaurant Group on social: Website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To book your table at the 1 Chapmans Peak Drive, Noordhoek venue, call +27 (0)21 789 0445 or email noordhoek@jakes.co.za.

DISCLAIMER: The Social Needia visited Jake’s on The Common in their own private capacity. We are under no obligation to share a positive review about our experience and the above is totally in the opinion of The Social Needia. Should you have any opinion of your own, please post in the comments section below. Please note that the menu was correct at the time of publishing, and items tested may no longer be available at the venue.