In the first instalment of NEWS & REVIEWS this autumn, we discover new Stellenbosch restaurant Rykaarts, find out more about StreetSmart South Africa, and stand a chance to win a gift box from Blür Beauty to the value of R1,296.
Continental class
Make your way to the corner of Stellenbosch’s Church and Bird streets, head down the unassuming alleyway past Back’s restaurant and deli and you’ll come to Loubar. Exuding French flair, Loubar offers a classy, intimate space with emerald-green stools, dark walls, a strikingly illuminated bottle wall and ample plants, says co-owner Raphaël Chevalier-
Bak. And while Loubar positions itself as premium, Raphaël adds it’s everything but pretentious. “We uphold an age 21-and-over door policy and although Loubar caters for an upmarket crowd, our prices are surprisingly affordable and ideal for student budgets.” Expect a drinks menu suited to all taste buds, as well as simple and delicious bar dining that features Slam Burgers and Locked & Loaded Fries.
Good to know: Loubar is open from 5pm until late, Tuesdays to Saturdays.
For the children
Since 2005, community initiative StreetSmart South Africa has been changing the lives of those who might well need our help the most: street children across the country. “StreetSmart raises funds for initiatives and programmes that support vulnerable street children via partnership with the local hospitality industry, online businesses and other corporates,” explains Reinette Retief, national administrator. Fundraising partners display StreetSmart marketing material informing patrons that a voluntary donation can be added to their bill. Donating to StreetSmart is a responsible way of helping street children. StreetSmart Stellenbosch fundraising partners include The Jordan Restaurant at Jordan Stellenbosch, the restaurant at Kunjani Wines, Majeka House, Rust en Vrede Restaurant and www.wine.co.za. Call 021 447 3227 or send an email to info@streetsmartsa.org.za.
From bean to beauty
For most people, coffee is what you drink; for Jamie Cleaver, founder of Blür Beauty, it is how it feels. Blür Beauty’s range, which includes coffee scrubs, serums and oils, champions caffeine from recycled coffee grinds as its primary ingredient. Acquired from some of the world’s best coffee shops, recycled coffee grinds are given a second lease on life, becoming the active compound in Blür Beauty’s innovative product line. After researching the effects of coffee on the skin, Jamie approached industry experts to help develop and create the first exfoliator of its kind in South Africa.
“Coffee oil is rich in tocopherols, making it an effective anti-ageing product. It contains antioxidants called polyphenols, which are extremely powerful and have the advantage of being very easily assimilated by the body. They protect us from the effects of ageing on the skin: wrinkles, dryness, loss of firmness, age spots, irritation and fine lines.”
Good to know: Blür Beauty is vegan, committed to no animal testing and uses only organic ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.
WIN! WIN! WIN!
We are spoiling one lucky reader with a gift box from Blür Beauty to the value of R1 296. The box includes coffee face serum (30ml), coffee body oil (100ml), coffee body scrub (200ml) and coffee face scrub (75ml). To enter, email digital@stellenboschvisio.co.za with the subject line BEAUTY by 31 March 2022. Remember to include your personal details and courier address. Terms and conditions apply.
The Rykaarts experience
New kid on the Stellenbosch culinary block, Rykaarts Stellenbosch is sure to become one of the dorp’s favourite spots. This family-owned restaurant, run by husband-and-wife team Alex and Ella Rykaart, is situated in the heart of town with quintessential views of old buildings and oak trees. “Rykaarts serves simple, contemporary food in a welcoming and intimate space. The ever-changing menu is small and focused and offers a variety of dish sizes, so diners can decide whichever suits them best,” says Ella. Produce is sourced with seasonality in mind and focuses on supporting locally based small businesses, friends and family. “This concept is mirrored on our wine list, which offers a selection of quality wines chosen specifically to complement the food.” Find Rykaarts on the corner of Dorp and Bird streets, send an email to eat@rykaarts.co.za or call 061 545 1465.
Must-haves: The Langside grass-fed beef rump served with triple-cooked chips and chermoula sauce; raw Cape linefish accompanied by a ginger dressing, fennel and jalapeño mayonnaise; and for something sweet, coconut meringue with whipped cream, caramelised pineapple, toasted coconut shavings and a splash of rum. Heaven!
ALSO READ: Ten weekend escapes this autumn