(REVIEW) Discovering Culinary Treasures at GALJOEN on Harrington Street
Harrington Street in District Six is quickly becoming a foodie haven, and one of its brightest stars is GALJOEN, a restaurant dedicated to showcasing the finest, ethically-sourced seafood Cape Town has to offer. Launched last year, GALJOEN has garnered a well-deserved reputation for exceptional plates that celebrate the bounty of the South African coastline.
Recently, we were invited to experience their newly launched multi-course winter lunch menu, an incredible value at only R550 per person. Led by the dynamic duo of chefs Neil Swart and Anouchka Horn, alongside head chef Isca Stoltz (all veterans of the acclaimed Belly of the Beast), GALJOEN’s winter menu is a love letter to the Cape’s unique “Cape of Storms” season.
A Harbour View with Modern Charm
GALJOEN’s location, nestled on the bustling Harrington Street, offers a hint of mystery at first glance. Head up to the third floor, however, and you’ll be greeted by a light-filled haven. The interior is a study in modern elegance, complete with stunning views of Cape Town’s iconic buildings. An open kitchen allows diners to witness the culinary artistry firsthand, creating an interactive and engaging atmosphere.
A Symphony of Flavors
Our journey began with a delightful Saldanha Bay Oyster. Dressed in a perfectly balanced miso dressing with cucumber and sesame, it was a delightful start, leaving us wanting more.
Next came the bread selection, a true highlight. The snoek toast was a revelation – warm, creamy, and beautifully presented. It was served with a vibrant jalapeno tartar sauce, fresh apple, radish, and dill oil, a symphony of flavors that exploded on the palate. This is a must-try for any adventurous diner.
The freshly steamed Saldanha Bay Mussels with escabeche, basil creme, and fermented focaccia croutes were a touch less impressive. While the mussels themselves were fresh and complemented the creamy basil sauce well, the fermented croutes didn’t quite hit the mark for us.
A refreshing palate cleanser followed, featuring green rooibos sherbet, lemon jelly, and lemon buchu meringue. This playful dessert was a delightful surprise, each bite offering a new and exciting flavor combination.
The main course was a playful reimagining of fish and chips – a dish any self-respecting South African child would recognize. Here, however, hake was elevated with a luxurious feta whip, sambal salad, cashews, corn masa crumb, and fresh avocado. The accompanying triple-cooked chips were crisp and satisfying.
A Sweet Ending
For dessert, we indulged in decadent cinnamon churros served with milk tart ice cream, dark chocolate Astros, and a molasses dark chocolate sauce. The best way to enjoy this creation? Split the churros open and stuff them with the ice cream for a truly mouthwatering experience.
A Must-Visit for Seafood Lovers
GALJOEN is a unique and unforgettable experience. From the friendly staff and stunning views to the innovative and ethically-sourced cuisine, it’s a restaurant that ticks all the boxes. If you’re a seafood lover visiting Cape Town, GALJOEN is a must-add to your culinary bucket list.
Reservations can be made online at https://www.galjoencpt.co.za/.
