Situated in The Pearls Mall, overlooking the Whalebone Pier and the Umhlanga Rocks promenade, Marbella Grand Cafe is a reflection of the area’s laid-back yet stylish and up-market coastal vibe. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas, and an events venue, the décor strikes a balance between modern elegance and casual beachside comfort, with natural textures and light tones that give the space a warm, welcoming feel. We were led to a cosy corner, where Bongani introduced himself and made us feel right at home.
To start off the evening, we were guided to try some of their iconic, Umhlanga-inspired cocktails. The Tropical Margarita was a refreshing twist on the classic drink with coconut and sour tasting notes. A Junebug, which was a firm favourite of the night and the topic for a song search, was a drink that balanced the sweetness from the cherry liqueur with the bitterness from the vodka, gin, and tequila. The Marbellicious with non-alcoholic gin was a delicious mixture, the perfect alternative for those who don’t drink alcohol.
To accompany the cocktails were some of Marbella’s signature appetisers. We aimed to create a variation and the menu was accommodating; we ended up with the lemon pepper squid, chilli karaage chicken wings, and the stuffed champignon. The stuffed champignon really knocked our socks off—the deep fried button mushrooms were filled with sundried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese. The lemon pepper squid didn’t disappoint either, crunchy and full of flavour with the chicken wings bringing the spicy elements to the spread.
Before the main course, it was decided that it’s not really a night out in Umhlanga without sushi. Between the classic california rolls and their signature pieces like prawn avalanches, we each got to experience their fresh and delicious sushi selection. Then, it was time for the main course.
We opted for the lobster burger and the creamy piri-piri chicken pasta. Served with penne, red peppers, and spring onion, this dish had us endlessly complementing the kitchen. The dish certainly lived up to its name with a creamy, rich sauce with a coconut undercurrent, tender chicken and a kick of spice to top it all off. Served in a brioche bun with a crayfish tail-filled centre, the lobster burger was a creative take on how to serve seafood, and the accompanying fresh fries rounded off the dish well.
Enjoying the ambience of the restaurant and present company, we didn’t even notice the sun going down. Of course, no night is over without some sweet treats either! The decadent chocolate brownie, served with smooth vanilla ice cream, and nuts; and the strawberry cheesecake, served with fresh berry coulis, and ice cream as well, provided a perfect ending for a spectacular evening.
Tel: 031 020 0028
Instagram: @marbellagrandcafe
Address: 2 McCausland Crescent, Shop C1, The Pearls Mall, Umhlanga Rocks
Words: Cristina Govender