The Bailey: Liam Tomlin’s Culinary Adventure on Bree Street

When I discovered The Bailey on bustling Bree Street, I was immediately captivated by its unique concept. It offers not just one, but three distinct dining experiences all under one roof!

The first space is called ‘The Shop.’ As you step inside, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere with shelves lined with carefully curated products. From artisanal ingredients to beautiful cookbooks, it’s a feast for the senses. This is the perfect place to find inspiration for your own culinary adventures.

Next up is ‘The Bistro.’ Here, you can sit back and relax in a cozy setting while enjoying a menu that showcases the best of local and seasonal ingredients. The dishes are expertly crafted and bursting with flavors that will leave you craving for more. From the appetizers to the desserts, each bite is a delightful surprise.

Lastly, there’s ‘The Showroom.’ This is where the real magic happens. As you enter, you’re welcomed by a state-of-the-art open kitchen where you can witness the talented chefs in action. It’s like a theater of flavors, as they prepare and present their culinary creations with precision and flair.

What I love about The Bailey is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a food enthusiast looking for inspiration, a diner seeking a cozy meal, or someone who wants to see the art of cooking come to life, this place has got you covered.

For me, The Bailey is more than just a restaurant. It’s a place where food becomes an experience. Each visit is an opportunity to explore, savor, and appreciate the incredible world of cuisine. So, if you’re looking for a truly unique culinary destination, look no further than The Bailey. It’s a journey you won’t soon forget.

Welcome to The Bailey, a place where you can enjoy a luxurious dining experience all day long. As a chef-restaurateur, I wanted to create a space that combines glamour and excitement, and I’m excited to show you around my latest venture.

Named after my beloved chocolate labrador, The Bailey is a stylish café, brasserie, and whisky bar that offers something special for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a delicious brunch, a satisfying lunch, an elegant dinner, or a nightcap with friends, The Bailey has got you covered.

Our mission is to elevate your dining experience and bring back the excitement and theatre that comes with dining out. We understand that dining is not just about the food—it’s about the entire experience. That’s why we’ve created a three-story venue that caters to your every need.

When you step into The Bailey, you’ll be greeted by an atmosphere of sophistication and luxury. Our team of talented chefs has crafted a menu that showcases the finest ingredients and flavors, ensuring a premium-quality dining experience.

If you’re in the mood for a delicious brunch, we offer a wide selection of mouthwatering options to start your day off right. From classic favorites like pancakes and eggs benedict to more unique culinary creations, there’s something for everyone.

For lunch and dinner, our brasserie menu is sure to satisfy your cravings. Choose from a range of enticing dishes, including fresh seafood, succulent steaks, and flavorful vegetarian options. Our skilled chefs pay attention to every detail, ensuring that each dish is a work of art.

After your meal, head up to our whisky bar and indulge in a selection of premium spirits. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or new to the world of fine spirits, our knowledgeable staff will guide you through our extensive collection and help you find the perfect pour.

At The Bailey, we believe that dining is about more than just the food and drink. It’s about creating lasting memories and enjoying every moment. That’s why we’ve designed our venue to be a place where you can relax, socialize, and immerse yourself in a world of sophistication and luxury.

So, if you’re looking for a truly exceptional dining experience, look no further than The Bailey. Join us and discover a world of glamour, excitement, and unforgettable flavors.

Right across the street from Heritage Square (where I opened my first Chefs Warehouse a long time ago), there’s a really old building (from 1682) that has been fixed up to become an amazing restaurant. They kept all the best parts, like the thick walls, high ceilings, beautiful floors, and the original wooden windows that reach all the way to the ceiling.

Three times the yumminess

“We had this idea to make a spot where people who think alike can come together, enjoy a good meal, and have drinks in a friendly atmosphere. It’s kind of like The Wolseley in London,” says Liam. He’s talking about this famous café-restaurant in the heart of the British capital, loved for its amazing decor, traditional dishes, and top-notch service.

Down on the street, you’ll find Café Bailey, a swanky pastry shop with a champagne and cocktail bar. They serve up mouthwatering pastries and cakes, alongside fragrant teas and coffees. Whether you’re craving an all-day breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or a delicious lunch, Café Bailey has got you covered. And if that’s not enough, they’ll even be adding a high tea experience later in the year. Step into the café, and you’ll be greeted with a feminine ambiance. The jewel-colored velvets and marble-topped tables create a sophisticated atmosphere, while the curated wine list adds an extra touch of elegance.

When you head upstairs to the middle floor, you’ll find yourself in the lovely Brasserie Bailey, inspired by the timeless style of Europe. The maître d’ is always there to make sure you receive exceptional service and warm hospitality. “Up here, the atmosphere is grand and vibrant,” Liam shares. Each of the three levels has its own unique character, from the delicious food and wine selection to the stylish furniture and curated playlists. The menu features a range of classic dishes like smoked salmon blinis, indulgent lobster rolls, flavorful beef-fillet crostini, and delightful brioche tartare. So, prepare yourself for a memorable dining experience that brings the best of Europe right to your table.

Hey there, let me take you to a special place that’s perfect for wine and whisky enthusiasts. It’s called The Old Bailey and it’s not just a regular bar. Situated on the rooftop with an open terrace, this place has a unique vibe.

With their impressive collection of 288 whiskeys, “The Old Bailey” is a paradise for all whiskey lovers. No matter what your budget is, you’ll find something that suits your taste. Are you up for a fancy cocktail priced at R80, or perhaps you’re in the mood to splurge on a R2 500 glass? Whatever you choose, Liam, the owner, guarantees an experience reminiscent of the lounges in New York or London.

What’s even more exciting is that regulars have access to a special private wine and whiskey reserve. Imagine having your own exclusive corner in this remarkable place.

A Place for Connection

I have some exciting news to share with you. The Bailey is the result of a fantastic collaboration between Liam, Jan Tomlin, Lisa and Warwick Goosen, and Gaye and Ernest Corbett. Together, they have created something truly special.

You may already be familiar with Liam’s Chefs Warehouse collection of restaurants. It’s a name that has made waves in the culinary world. But what you may not know is that Liam’s latest venture at Tintswalo Atlantic has been receiving accolades left and right. In fact, it was voted as one of the best new restaurants in the world by Condé Nast Traveler and named Best New Restaurant in Africa in the 2021 World Culinary Awards. That’s quite an achievement!

A fresh start

In our state-of-the-art kitchens at The Bailey’s, we have a talented team of young chefs who are making waves. Leading the way is Jacques Grové, our 25-year-old head chef. Despite his youth, Jacques has an impressive background, having worked at renowned establishments such as Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo Atlantic, Beau Constantia, Foxcroft, and La Colombe. Our sous chef, Dian Botes, also gained experience at Chefs Warehouse Bree Street, while our head pastry chef, San-Marie Pienaar, honed her skills at Singita Lebombo, Waterkloof, and Rust en Vrede in the Winelands. When you visit us, be sure to try our Milk & Cookies – a tempting twist on a classic Brandy Alexander cocktail.

The Art of Culinary Excellence

Art is like a magical string that connects everything in this place. You’ll find beautiful pieces, made by local artists, hanging on the walls. They use different materials and techniques to create their original works. One of the most special rooms here is called the Paul du Toit private dining room. This room is named after an amazing artist who is no longer with us. When you step inside, you can’t help but be amazed by the sculptures, ceramics, and paintings that fill the space. It feels like you’re in his studio, and the floor even looks just like it!

Wow, Mr. Tomlin is really stepping it up again! He’s taken this amazing space that’s got so much character and decked it out with some seriously timeless style. It’s like this place has always been here… You know, every amazing city out there has that one spot that everybody talks about, whether it’s a café or a restaurant or a bar. And let me tell you, Cape Town totally deserves a place like that. Well, guess what? The Bailey is about to become all three.

So, when can you check it out? Let me give you the scoop. Café Bailey is open Monday to Saturday, from 7am to 9pm. If you’re more into a sit-down meal, you’ve got options. Brasserie Bailey is open Monday to Saturday, serving up some deliciousness from 12pm to 2.30pm and again from 6pm to 9pm. And if you’re more of a late-night snacker, The Old Bailey is where it’s at. They’re open Monday to Friday from 3pm till late, and on Saturdays from 5pm.

Need to reach out? No problem, I’ve got you covered. You can give them a call at 021 773 0440, or shoot them an email at reservations@the-bailey.co.za.

But where is The Bailey? Good question! You’ll find it at 91 Bree Street in Cape Town.