Chef Liam Tomlin Opens New Restaurant in Cape Town

Guess what? There’s a brilliant new restaurant that has just opened up in Cape Town. If you’re a food lover like me, you’re in for a real treat. I recently had the pleasure of visiting this amazing place, and let me tell you, it was an experience like no other. Chef Liam Tomlin has truly outdone himself with this venture, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it.

When you step into Liam Tomlin’s new restaurant, you’ll immediately be struck by the vibrant atmosphere. The place is buzzing with energy, and the smell of delicious food wafts through the air. The decor is modern and chic, with unique touches that add warmth and character. You’ll feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door.

Now, let’s talk about the food. Chef Liam Tomlin is known for his attention to detail and his inventive flavor combinations, and his new restaurant certainly showcases his culinary expertise. The menu is filled with mouthwatering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a carnivore or a vegetarian, there’s something on the menu for everyone.

One of the standout dishes I tried was the grilled octopus. It was perfectly cooked, tender and flavorful, and served with a zesty citrus dressing that complemented the delicate flavors of the seafood. Another highlight was the slow-roasted lamb shoulder, which literally melted in my mouth. And don’t even get me started on the desserts – they were a heavenly end to a truly unforgettable meal.

But it’s not just the food that sets this restaurant apart. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure that you have a memorable dining experience. The sommelier is incredibly knowledgeable and can recommend the perfect wine pairing for your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

So, whether you’re a local or a tourist, I highly recommend checking out Chef Liam Tomlin’s new restaurant in Cape Town. It’s a culinary adventure that you don’t want to miss. Book a table, sit back, and let your taste buds be amazed. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Hey there! I want to tell you about this awesome new restaurant in Cape Town called The Bailey. It’s owned by a really talented guy named Liam Tomlin, who is both a chef and a businessman. This place is located on Bree Street, which is known as one of the trendiest areas in the CBD.

I’m excited to share some great news with you! After a bit of a wait, The Café at The Bailey in Cape Town Central City is finally open. It’s been the talk of the town since it opened its doors in June, and I can understand why.

Located right across from Tomlin’s original Chefs Warehouse site, which used to be known as Chefs Warehouse Winebar & Pinchos, this new café is the brainchild of Liam and Jan Tomlin, along with their partners Lisa and Warwick Goosen, and Gaye and Ernest Corbett from Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo.

What makes The Café at The Bailey even more exciting is that it’s housed in a beautifully restored building with a rich history. This place used to be a women’s clinic, but Liam and Jan saw its potential and turned it into a stunning space with a touch of glamour.

They’ve put a lot of effort into making this place special, from the lighting and plumbing to the state-of-the-art kitchens. It’s clear that they’re in it for the long haul and want to create something truly remarkable.

A PLACE TO RELAX AND ENJOY

As soon as I step into the Cafe, I’m greeted by a beautiful scene. The ground floor, with its marble-tiled floor, features an old oregon pine counter where they serve freshly baked croissants, pastries, and of course, coffee. All of these delights are prepared right here in the Cafe, under a sparkling chandelier that adds a touch of magic. If I’m in the mood for a sip of wine or a cup of coffee, I can take a seat at one of the round café tables. The stools, with their high backs, are either in pinstripes or made of soft, buttoned green velvet.

‘I imagine this lower area as a place of elegance, somewhere where mothers can drop off their kids and join us for coffee and a chat,’ says Tomlin, the owner. ‘We’ll have a range of options for breakfast, lunch, and light meals that will be available throughout the day. And don’t forget about our selection of lighter wines, rosé, and sparkling options,’ he adds. I notice the banquette seating with its gilt-framed mirrors as I make my way up the stairs to the Champagne Bar, where I can indulge in oysters and enjoy chilled drinks.

When I step onto the first floor of this place, I’m immediately struck by the sight of carefully restored bricks and tall sash windows. It’s a nod to the past, a glimpse into history. But that’s not all. As I walk further, I notice something unexpected – polished parquet flooring leading up to a bar counter. It’s an eclectic mix of old and new, blending together seamlessly. And on the walls, there’s a stunning collection of art curated by Tomlin, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Just above the staircase, a brass chandelier takes center stage, shining its light on everything below.

TABLECLOTHS AND TABLE SERVICE

‘So, here we are in our classical French Brasserie,’ Tomlin says with a smile. ‘I want to transport you back to a time when dining out was an experience, a journey. It’s like stepping into a luxurious hotel from years gone by, where the maître d’ was as important as the chef. We want to bring back that sense of theater, that feeling of being taken care of. It’s all about the tablecloths, the immaculate table service, the attention to detail.’

Getting the chance to have a chat with Tomlin, he tells me about some exciting dishes they serve at The Brasserie. One of their specialties is steak tartare, which they actually mix right at the table. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you’re in for a treat. Instead of a regular dessert menu, they bring out a cart and cook delicious desserts like crêpes Suzette. And it doesn’t end there. They also have a cheese trolley with a variety of both goat’s and cow’s milk cheeses, some local and others imported. When it comes to the wine, they keep it mostly local, with about 75% of the selection being South African labels and the remaining 25% being French.

EXPERIENCE FRENCH CUISINE AT THE BRASSERIE

At The Brasserie, they serve a classic French menu with their own unique touch. They take traditional dishes like duck confit, beef bourguignon, coq au vin, and steak frites, and give them their own interpretation. And for dessert, you can indulge in delightful treats like tarte Tatin and crème brûlée. It’s worth mentioning that the head chef, Jacques Grove, has previous experience as a sous chef at Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo.

Welcome to The Old Bailey Whiskey Bar, located on our top floor. Here, you can enjoy a variety of whiskeys and single malts while relaxing in plush velvet armchairs. The atmosphere exudes a masculine charm, with its deep navy hues, embossed ceilings, and parquet floors. As you enter, your eyes will be drawn to the captivating old map of Cape Town adorning one of the walls. When you step out onto the terrace, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the City Bowl, framed by elegant black Italian tiles. It’s a truly exceptional experience.

Here at The Old Bailey Whiskey Bar, we pride ourselves on creating a haven for the discerning drinker. We affectionately refer to it as a “grown-up bar” – a place where people like me, in their 50s, can reminisce about their 30s while enjoying a quiet conversation at a table. No need to shout here. It’s the perfect setting to unwind with a glass of fine whiskey, beer, or wine.

Prices at our bar cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of spirits, we have something for everyone. With over 250 whiskeys and single malts from 13 different countries, including rare 60-year-old labels, you’ll have plenty of options to explore and discover.

GRAND EUROPEAN CAFÉ

What if I told you that I found my inspiration for this project on a trip to Paris? It may sound unusual, but it’s true. A few months ago, I decided to take a “research trip” to the beautiful city of Paris. My goal was not to specifically study the food, but to immerse myself in the atmosphere of the city’s long-standing restaurants. I wanted to sit in bistros and brasseries that had been around for two or three generations, and experience what it felt like to be there.

I’m excited to tell you about Downstairs, a cafe inspired by the grand European cafes you’d find in Budapest, Paris, Prague, and London. It’s a place where people come together to meet, celebrate, and enjoy delicious food. In the morning, you can start your day with a scrumptious breakfast, and later on, we offer a light lunch. Soon, we’ll even introduce high tea in the afternoon for a special treat. I have always admired the pre-and post-theatre culture in Europe, and while we may not have that here in Cape Town, Downstairs is the perfect spot to grab a drink before or after a show. The grand European cafes I’ve visited over the years have always fascinated me with their vibrant atmosphere and captivating charm.

Now, let me show you our unique South African touch. The Paul du Toit private dining room is a tribute to the late artist who had a deep love for primary colors. The floors are covered with brightly colored paint splatters, which look even more striking when viewed through transparent Louis Ghost chairs. To pay homage to Paul’s bold style, the ceiling is painted turquoise and features a red industrial metal conduit. It’s a space that embraces our South African identity while still honoring international influences.

When you step into the dining room, you’ll be greeted by a delightful mix of art and personal touches. Ceramic plates adorn the walls, while paintbrushes and studio trinkets are carefully displayed. The centerpiece of the room is a sculpture surrounded by around 20 paintings, imparting a vibrant and creative atmosphere.

This space serves as the perfect gallery to showcase the artistic endeavors of the late Paul. His friend, Liam, also contributes to the space, with some of his own pieces on display. Here, a celebration of their friendship and artistic collaboration is brought to life.

The room is dedicated to Paul’s memory and his love for experimenting with various artistic mediums. His creativity knew no bounds. From paintings to sculptures and everything in between, his work spans a wide range of artistic expressions.

Embedded in the heart of this space is the legacy of a chocolate Labrador named Bailey. Although no longer with us, Bailey’s memory lives on in the name of this charming café.

If you find yourself in Cape Town, don’t miss the opportunity to visit The Bailey Café Brasserie Champagne Bar. It can be found at 91 Bree Street, where you’ll be welcomed with open arms and immersed in a unique and artistic ambiance.