Although being a Mom is the best gift in life, there are times when it can be tough. So, it’s great to have a place to retreat to when you need to take a bit of a breather. When it’s my turn to get a bit of ‘me’ time, I often head down the street to Cocoa Oola Café & Pizzeria, a new restaurant near the top of Kloof Street in Gardens, Cape Town. They just opened a few months ago, but they obviously know what they’re doing because they’ve already got branches in Rondebosch, Observatory, and in Cape Town’s Foreshore.
The décor is open, fresh, and modern. The place is well spread out, and coupled with some wooden baby highchairs, Cocoa Oola also makes for a child friendly atmosphere. Bar like seating next to a few large open windows face out onto Kloof, and clever looking light installations hang from the ceiling, giving this place a unique and funky feel. As soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted by their charming staff, and they’ll give you the option of sitting at a bar, a table, or a couch.
The food is great, and free wireless internet access is offered. I often visit to enjoy a latte and a ‘small’ treat, but I can also highly recommend their breakfasts and their lunches. If you’re a fan of cake, then get yourself to this place ASAP. The portions are large, the quality is top, and the prices are affordable. I can recommend both the chocolate and the carrot cake: every bite is moist, sinful, and extremely moreish. Just remember to bring a friend and an extra fork. The last time I visited Cocoa Oola, I had a pita filled with pan seared steak strips, baby herb leaves, and a mustard and hollandaise sauce: thick and fluffy potato wedges on the side. It was mouth wateringly delicious.
They’re open from early morning (7am) until 11 at night (Sundays from 8am-8pm), and if you’re looking for a place to hang out at in the evenings, they have a substantial menu including a number of pizzas and local beers to choose from. They’ll also do takeaway if you’d prefer your food to go.
When you pay your bill, make sure to ask for a loyalty card – if you collect 10 stamps then they’ll give you a complimentary, crush, coffee, slice or cake, or cookie at your next visit. Believe me; it’s too good to pass up! With food this tasty, Cocoa Oola is a place that you’ve definitely got to try.
Cocoa Oola Cafe and Pizzeria
100 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Tel 021-422-3638, www.cocoa.co.za
