Vibrant tapas culture and a whole lot more.
Inspired by Hemingway’s love of Spanish bars, La Parada brings that passion with a South African twist. First launched in 2014, a new sibling has joined the family, fittingly in one of the vibiest locations in town – Kloof Street.
It’s a spot as suited to gatherings of friends and family as it is for date-night dinners, casual daytime meet-ups or after-work drinks. The outdoor terrace and colourful, eclectically dressed interior draw you in, setting the scene for a celebration of Spain’s cultural gift to the world.
Arrive hungry!
La Parada’s menu is the sort that makes everyone happy – from its signature tapas, mains and desserts to pizzas, sushi and even a kid-friendly selection. There’s a vibrant playfulness to this comfort food that belies the serious culinary skill and impeccable local sourcing.
Let’s face it… you’re here for the tapas. From the croquetas (prawn or ham) and tuna ceviche to the spicy-cheesy Amazeballs, paprika-and-orange-glazed ribs, fish tacos and spicy kingklip goujons coated in Cape Malay chilli-bite batter for some local flavour.
The mains cover burgers (wagyu beef, crispy chicken or beetroot), steaks (coffee-rubbed rib-eye or Spanish-style fillet with truffle butter), seafood and even pasta. A sweet finalé comes in the shape of churros, chocolate popcorn s’mores, salted-caramel cheesecake or a spicy malva pudding.
Spaniards and South Africans alike love their meat, so there’s plato de carne (meat platters) in three sizes – pequeno, medio and grande; a lip-smacking selection of spatchcock chicken, boerewors, sticky BBQ pork ribs, chicken wings and herb-crusted lamb cutlets, served with chips bravas.
And in a city that’s crazy about sushi, La Parada’s selection stands out – especially if you order the “on fire” option (vodka-infused teriyaki sauce lit and poured over deep-fried rolls or the ultimate rainbow rolls at your table). There’s even a Cajun option, with chicken, not fish.
Raise a glass or three
There’s wine – including three house wines made by Hampton & Co – plus bubbly, beers, spirits and seltzers. But it’s the long and lovely list of cocktails that will grab, stir and shake you.
Four experiential cocktails come with extra touches like millionaire’s shortbread, dark chocolate and burnt butter oil. There are all the classics, and the classics with a twist – a Madagascan martini; a Crazy Cranbucha or Caribbean Iced Tea; margarita options that include coconut, mango or pineapple and pepper; and a Bombay Jug to share).
Stay for the party
There’s music, too, of course – always upbeat, and played live by guest artists and DJs on weekends. Every last Sunday of the month is the big party night, when tables are shifted aside to clear space for a fiesta of music and dancing. Plus, every second Wednesday is Salsa Night, where you can learn the moves and rule that dance floor.
On Fridays to Sundays, La Parada wakes up a little earlier to serve breakfast. Whether you go for the La Parada Benedict or classic breakfast fry-up (featuring chorizo), or indulge in banana bread French toast with bacon, honey and berries – or any of the other delicious options – you’ll quickly slip into weekend chill/play mode.
Keep these days in your diary open for the ultimate La Parada experience, and you’ll truly appreciate the soul of this place.
Opening times Monday – Thursday, 11am – midnight
Friday – Sunday, 9am – midnight
Contact 021 001 7312, kloofstreet@laparada.co.za
Where to find it Corner of Kloof and Rheede Streets, Gardens, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan
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