Stalker alert! ELLE’s Jenna McArthur and Chesk Liackman pick
the best spots for celeb spotting in Cape Town, Durban and Jo’burg
Cape town
Orphanage
227 Bree Street, corner of Bree and Orphan Streets, 021
424 2004; theorphanage.co.za
This new kid on the block is a Victorian drinking den meets
speakeasy with a spy hole on the front door and skeleton key chandelier
dangling from the low ceiling. Expect a mix of ddep house, indie electro and
old school vinyl beats.
Spotted The gorgeous Jo-Ann Strauss and Liezel van
der Westhuizen
What to wear Go for understated glamour, keeping it
stylish and sophisticated. You’ll fit right in wearing sequins and leather.
When to go It’s open Saturday to Thursday from 5pm to
2am and from 3pm to 2am on Friday. Sunday is ‘Sunday Bloody Mary Sunday’- a
half-price Dirty Mary (their take on the classic cocktail) and food special.
Your order Try the Rack & Ruin – deliciously
fancy, made with bubbles, pear air and strawberry caviar balls; or More Tea
Vicar – vanilla vodka, rooibos syrup, cranberry and lemon served in a
rose-patterned tea cup. Enjoy with truffle chips or cheese, charcuterie and
mezze ‘sharing platters.’
What not to do There are ‘house rules’ that include
no cheating, no shouting, cursing or profanities, no musical requests, no
doggie bags (even if you have a dog).
Nobu at the ONE&ONLY
Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, 021 431 4511
Nobu at The
One&Only
This world-famous Japanese restaurant has a number of global
outlets including LA, New York, London and Milan, so A-listers feel right at
home.
Spotted The list is long and includes Jonathan Rhys
Meyers, the Kings of Leon boys, Denzel Washington, Keri Hilson, Chris Martin,
Sharon Stone, Matt Damon, Ryan Reynolds, Janet Jackson and Robert De Niro.
What to wear Your lobster ceviche will set you back
R115, so why should you dress down?
When to go Sundays for the sushi special (R150 for 14
pieces) that runs from 6pm to 9pm.
Your order The award-winning new executive chef, Fred
Faucheux, is a master of fusion Japanese cuisine. Save up for the Winter Bento
Box (a selection of cold appetisers and warm signatures from the Nobu kitchen)
from R275 per head. Linger over their sake selection, such as the famed Nobu
Saketini.
What not to do Forget about trying to het in without
booking.
Societi Bistro & Brasserie
50 Orange Street, 021 424 2100; societi.co.za
Societi Bistro
The ELLE team’s home away from home, and we can vouch that
celebrities also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and bistro-style food. We love
the fireplace in The Snug (their charming and cosy bar) and the owner Peter
Weetman will treat you like a star no matter who you are!
Spotted Coldplay, Sienna Miller, Annie Lennox, Jared
Leto and Colin Farrell. Local celebs include Lindiwe Mazibuko, Freshlyground,
Helen Zille, Tammy-Ann Fortuin, Randall Abrahams and Justin Bonello.
What to wear Stay comfortable in designer jeans and a
luxury sweater.
When to go Mondays and Tuesdays are best.
Your order Try the decadent Chocolate Nemesis – a
flourless chocolate cake that melts in your mouth. A carefully selected wine
list complements a small seasonal menu.
What not to do There’s nothing you can’t do at
Societi Bistro.
The Bungalow
3 Victoria Road, Clifton; 021 434 2018
The Bungalow
The Bungalow Restaurant & Lounge opened with plenty of
pretty people in attendance. It joins The Cove and Parange on restaurateur Paul
Kovensky’s portfolio and guarantees spectacular views of the ocean with all the
bells and whistles for a sea-front soirée, including a saxophonist
setting the perfect mood.
Spotted Local and international film stars and
socialites including Chelsy Davy and Christina Storm. We’ve also seen designer
Gavin Rajah relaxing in the outdoor lounge.
What to wear A cocktail dress, towering heels and
bold lips. Tailored pants are best if you’re headed for the outdoor lounge.
When to go Whenever you’re in the mood to kick back
with sushi, bubbly and spectacular views of the ocean.
Your order The sushi is delicious and so are the
gourmet burgers.
What not to do The splash pool is for looking at or
dipping your toes in – diving in is not cool.
