Calamari Tale at Chapman's Peak Hotel

A perfect day to be out on a Sunday! Weather in Cape Town is unpredictable! Just two days ago, it was windy, and one could hardly walk on the streets. And its warm today. Receiving the gift if warm weather on a Sunday, we decided to pay a visit to the Sunday Craft Market in Hout Bay. Visit to the market was great! It had small stalls that sold crafts from Wooden Animals to recycled Coca-Cola bottles turned into a small box. For those planning to visit, this market is on every Sunday. For more details:

http://www.uncoverthecape.co.za/shopping/markets/hout-bay-market/index.htm

Well, as we were looking around the market, my husband told us that we must get to the restaurant for lunch. It was only 11.20 am and I thought why the rush?? We drove to the restaurant nevertheless. After reaching the restaurant, only then I understood why he planned to rush! 

We went to Chapman's Peak Hotel! It is listed as one of the 20 things you should do when in Cape Town.  World known for the best Calamari. No wonder, you have to get there early just to get a seat. Just before we arrived, we were told that there was a huge queue outside the restaurant, because it only opened at 12. We were lucky enough not to be in the queue and was seated almost immediately by the terrace, facing beautiful Hout Bay. 

Overlooking Hout Bay

If you go to a restaurant world known for its Calamari, you SHOULD try the Calamari. My mum-in-law and I opted for the starter Calamari, I knew I couldn't finish the larger portion. My dad-in-law and husband ordered the Main Course Calamari. The only difference we saw from the menu between the two are the chips or rice that comes with and Main meal is served in a pan. 

After tasting it, I was quite disappointed that the starter Calamari because it was a little bland. It lacked the flavors of herbs and crisp that the main course had. Maybe they put too much effort on the main course, and made other meals a let down. :(

Was happy at least, that while having lunch, one can take some time to enjoy the breathtaking view AND we went back to the market later :)

Overall impression:

Food : 3/5

Drinks : 4/5

Ambience : 5/5

Service : 3.5/5

During Peak Hours

***Impressions are based on writer's opinion

***All reviews are independent, unannounced and not sponsored by any party

Chapman's Peak Hotel

Hout Bay 7806, South Africa

+27 (0) 21 790 1036