When your favourite places move, join the trek

When the River Café at Constantia Uitsig closed down in 2014 I was inordinately upset. For decades, it was our go-to spot for a decadent brunch, celebratory lunch or indulgent afternoon tea and cake.

I loved the old building it was in, the food was fresh and wholesome and, when the weather was fine there was a beautiful courtyard, surrounded by greenery, where you could sit and savour your food.

It was where we went as a family and the kids were welcome, even though it felt a bit posh taking them to the River Cafe. But all things change and in 2014 Chardonnay Deli opened, near the entrance to Groot Constantia.

Soon after it opened we sampled the breakfast menu one sunny Sunday morning, sitting under the oak tree, and decided this was a Good Place.

And so Chardonnay Deli became our new meeting place for coffee dates, lunches and brunches. It’s housed in an historic building, there’s a stoep and, again, when the weather’s on your side, a lovely outside area under the oak trees, overlooking a forest glade.

Mussels with cream, white wine and garlic are served at lunchtime at Dalebrook Café in St James. Photo: Dalebrook Café