A few weeks back Grant and I stole away for a romantic dinner, at the new contemporary Italian restaurant, Blanko at the Alphen Hotel. You may remember it as 5 Rooms Restaurant. Well, the space has been given a new lease on life and a fresh, modern look.
Blanko Restaurant
Blanko, located at the Alphen Boutique Hotel, is in the heart of the Constantia Valley. The luxury 5-star hotel is situated on 11.5 acres of beautiful lush gardens. As well as Blanko, the property is also home to La Belle Bistro & Bakery and The Rose Bar outdoor garden lounge. Blanko is also part of the Kove Collection of restaurants, hotels and bars.
The Decor
Blanko Restaurant boasts an all-white gallery-style interior. The decor is light and bright, with Italian marble tables and textures of leather, wood and glass. Lighting is soft and ambient, further enhancing the radiance of the space.
The dramatically-lit white bar area is the perfect spot to enjoy a few cocktails. I also love the thought of spending a warm summer evening dining alfresco outside on the terrace.
As well as the sparkling new-look interior, Blanko has teamed up with Cape Town’s Goodman Gallery, to showcase pieces from some of South Africa’s greatest contemporary artists. These artists include Diane Victor, David Goldblatt, William Kentridge, Brett Murray, Michael Savitsky, Robert Hodgins and Walter Oltmann.
The Menu
Grant and I decided to enjoy a cocktail in the bar area before dinner, we both opted for the Grapefruit and Mint G&T {recommended by our waiter} which was delicious. Our waiter also recommended that we order the Fried Green Olives to nibble on while we perused the menu. The contemporary Italian menu offers a selection of delicious, beautifully presented yet uncomplicated fare.
“I believe the best food is prepared from the heart – it not only has to taste good, it should be something sincere and uncomplicated”. ~ Group Head Chef, Amber-May Deetlefs
There is something for everyone on the menu. Start your meal off with an Antipasti dishes such as Beef Carpaccio, Gnocchi or delicious Calamari. Grant decided on the beef carpaccio, with wild rocket, Parmigiano Reggiano, olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. I chose the Calamari, which was fantastic – it was served with garlic, green chilli and lemon.
For mains, there is a great selection of both fish and meat dishes, as well as pasta and pizza. After much debate, I decided on the Escalopes of Veal, served with sage, new potatoes, veal jus and lemon. Grant opted for the Lamb Ragu, which was incredible and although I loved my meal, I had immense food envy!
We were both full after mains, but I could not resist the sound of the Tiramisu, which also happens to be my favourite Italian dessert.
Conclusion
Blanko is a great culinary addition to the Constantia Valley. The menu is varied, and the food we ate was of a high standard, as was the service. In my opinion, prices are reasonable, as main courses range from R75 for the pasta to R220 for a lamb shank. Blanko also offers diners an extensive wine list, which includes a selection of premium Champagnes. Overall we had a great evening and hope to return soon.
Opening Times & Contact Details
Blanko is open Monday – Sunday from 12h00 – 24h00. Location: Alphen Drive, Constantia, 7806, Cape Town, South Africa. Contact: To make a reservation please contact +27 (0) 21 795 6313 or email: [email protected]
Disclosure: Certain images supplied. We enjoyed dinner as guests of Blanko Restaurant. This is not a sponsored or paid post.
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