Anyone been to all three new restaurants at D’aria? I went to the Terrace just after they opened, but two weeks ago, I was invited to Botany Lounge at D’Aria and Patina Steak at D’Aria.
Botany Lounge is B E A Utiful! The purple, soft velvet couches, mirrors, hanging plants, and beautiful bar area all create a very luxurious setting, making it perfect for a cocktail before your meal. One can even sit outside on the patio, which will soon be home to a few plants and colourful scatter cushions.
My friend and I each enjoyed a Cosmo and a Pina Colada. What’s more, is that their tapas menu is super affordable and great for pairing with your cocktail, bottle of wine or beer.
Moving onto Patina. I am not a HUGE red meat fan and rarely eat red meat in a restaurant, so for me personally, the starters were the best!
I could just eat a few starters as a main meal and be quite content, especially when they’re this good. I had the Carpaccio, with pickled shallots, mustard seeds, radish and smoked salt, which was light, tender and perfectly paired.
My friend ordered the calamari tubes, with parmesan risotto, red onion, lemon, and chilli lime dressing. We actually landed up swopping halfway through, as it was too rich for her, but I loved every comforting mouthful. I would order JUST this, as it’s very filling and very comforting and did I mention, delicious?
After that, my friend ordered a medium-rare fillet and I enjoyed the pork loin ribs, both succulent and cooked to perfection. I love the containers the sides are served in, keeping it warm.
We were really very full afterwards, not having space for dessert, but I noticed a white chocolate Martini on their menu, which I will most certainly order next time I visit them.
The service was outstanding really, but they weren’t busy, so it’s hard for me to compare.
I’ve attached their menu and although their prices are above the normal price of many other steak houses, it pays to know that they source only THE BEST grade meats, including Wagyu steak. After chatting to Ryan Richens (owner of all three D’Aria restaurants, including Cattle Baron and Copper Club Tyger waterfront, and several other restaurants), he confirmed that they cannot be placed in the same league as other steakhouses. Their quality is supreme, and that’s what you’re paying for.
They’re running a lunch time special for R250, where you get a Sirloin with chips and salad OR a Norwegian Salmon with baby potatoes and roast veg + a glass of fine wine.
What to know about Botany Lounge:
They have a DJ and sundowners on Friday and Sunday evenings.
They’re busy building and constructing a MASSIVE outdoor play area just outside the patio area. So you can take your kids along, whilst enjoying a cocktail, some tunes and great company.
To find out more, contact Botany Lounge or Patina at 021 205 0572.
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