Situated conveniently close to tourist-mad Mother City (an hour on the open road once you get past the Blouberg metropol mess) the little fishing village of Paternoster is perfect for a one-night getaway, or a leisurely Sunday lunch. And if you’re in the mood for a drive out west and a bite to eat, make sure you get to The Noisy Oyster.
The Noisy Oyster
Fabulously Hemmingwayesque, this culinary nook boasts a fine wine list and some seriously delicious food. And while I could wax lyrical about what it looks like, pictures are worth a thousand words. If you like what you see – get thee to the sea!
In addition to a uniquely festive atmosphere, The Noisy Oyster also stocks a bevvy of local beers (last time I got my mother and her beau hooked on Darling Brew) – there’s nothing quite like a cold one on a hot summer’s night or boozy lunch followed by a nap or a rejuvenating swim in the ice-cold Atlantic. It is a plentiful ‘palace of necessity’ run with verve and passion, their menu changes daily – replete with foreplay and intercourse (of course!) based on what’s fresh and flipping. Owner, manager, dilatant and photographer-in-chief Karl has a wicked sense of humour you’ll find. Indulge in freshly shucked sea-sweet oysters, patagonian calamari sautéed in smoked paprika, thai duck curry (heavenly!), pan-grilled fresh hake or yellowtail (with citrus butter, bru) roasted to perfection. I remember dessert being both impressive and lovely, getting stuck on spun sugar crème brûlée is a fate I’d happily repeat. It is an excellent spot for a year-end function or birthday party (pity for me they’re closed in July).
Contact: Tel 022 752 2196, email [email protected]
Paternoster is also notable for its endless, white beaches and pastel hues as the sun sinks into the calm sea. Where I’m from in The Deep South, the sunsets are electric but up west it seems the solar king goes ‘gently into the dark night’, affording visitors a certain sense of zen.
