Refreshing cocktails, delicious food and an inviting atmosphere are what you will find at News Cafe Umhlanga. We indulged in a leisurely lunch outside on their deck, whilst enjoying the fresh summer air. Sitting in one of their cushioned outdoor booths, their upbeat vibes filled the space, and we were excited to start the experience with a few drinks.
What sunny summer’s day would be complete without a cocktail? A Mexican Spritz, made with grapefruit tequila, was a vibrant fiesta in a glass, and their Float Like A Butterfly caught my eye. This tequila-based cocktail (with blueberry purée, orange juice, lime and a float filled with butterfly blue pea flower extract) not only tasted like a day on the beach but had a surprise element as you watched the butterfly blue pea float slowly drip into the drink. If you don’t drink alcohol, News Cafe has just the drink for you. Their Virgin Berry, made with frozen mixed berries, mixed berry purée, mint, orange juice and Schweppes Lemonade, is perfect to feel included on the “It’s five o’clock somewhere” train.
After a few sips and a bit of banter, it was time for tapas! Two dishes stood out to all of us. Their Corn Ribs with harissa mayo were sweet and tangy and provided the real ‘rib experience’ – saucy and all! Of course, we had to get their jalapeño poppers – five fried balls filled with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mashed potato, spring onion, chives and diced jalapeños, placed on top of a dollop of sriracha mayo. They were not overly spicy and very tasty.
With so many fabulous options, it took some discussion to choose our mains. This is the best part of any review, and News Cafe’s menu offers something for everyone. Michaela chose the grilled calamari, well-seasoned with Cajun spice and lemon butter and served with chips and a chopped tomato salad for a balanced selection of textures and tastes.
Dhivashini went with their perfectly cooked fried hake with three grilled queen prawns, chips and a jalapeño mayo for an extra zing and spice. Amy tucked into their moreish Zucchini and Mushroom Pasta, a garlic and lemon zest linguine with olive oil, piquanté peppers, chopped rocket, zucchini and mushrooms – a scrumptious dish for any vegetarian that is packed with flavour. Lastly, I decided to try something fresh, so I went for the Smoked Salmon Salad. Served on a bed of fresh baby leaf lettuce with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta, avo and topped with a delicious drizzle of their lemon and dill dressing, this is the ultimate summer salad. Refreshing and filling!
We left with new favourites and a list of our next must-try dishes. Make sure you choose News Cafe as your next lunch spot – you won’t regret it!
Tel: 031 566 2268
Email: info@newsumhlanga.co.za
Website: www.newscafe.co.za
Words: Kai Coates