“Fan the sinking flame of hilarity with the wing of friendship; and pass the rosy wine.” – Charles Dickens
The Hussar Grill makes me want to be a portly 19th century writer; a Dickensian type complete with waistcoat and braces holding up corduroy pants, penning a novel by the fireplace.
Entering this legendary grill room in Greenpoint, Cape Town, is like walking into Dickens’ library. Or Cluedo’s Billiard Room. You want to call yourself Colonel Mustard and whop the hostess with a candlestick. Consensus is, and I’d agree, it beats the Rondebosch and Camps Bay Hussar, in service (friendly) and atmosphere (warm).
Inside are shelves of hardcover books and wine bottles, vintage photos of sepia-coloured people, a checkered black and white floor, moody lighting and Jack Daniel’s branded wine barrels.
But onto more pressing matters: food. The Fried Crumbed Camembert, with cranberry jam and Melba toast, is my favourite starter from any Cape restaurant I’ve tried. At R62, it’s filling and so decadent it seems hedonistic.
Although Hog Ribs and Carpetbagger sounded like enticing mains, never mind good band names, I opted for Bushmans Kebab with wild game. Happiness is…. pricey at R159, but a treat for the carnivorous. The sole is delicious too, especially with creamy spinach and cinnamon butternut.
There are some great wines and beers, but retiring to the bar for cigars and cognac is the only way to end an evening here, at least for one practicing to be a 19th century man.
Contact: 107a Main Road, Green Point, Cape Town
Tel: 021 433 2081
Email: hussargrillgp@telkomsa.net Web: www.hussargrill.co.za