Muizenberg has enjoyed an enormous revival over the past decade, as Capetonians discover the laid-back charms of this seaside suburb. The Harbour House Group has been key to the rejuvenation of the beachfront and the investment continues this winter with the unveiling of the new-look Live Bait Surfers Corner.
Situated just steps from the sands of ‘The Berg’, as locals call it, the revamped Live Bait Surfers Corner has re-opened with an expanded menu of a family-friendly seafood fare, and décor that celebrates its enviable seaside setting.
We wanted to make the restaurant a little more casual and more approachable. We’ve brought in more colour, more family-friendly interiors and added layers of décor. It’s a conscious step away from being an upmarket seafood restaurant and about making Live Bait a place where people can come in straight off the beach, with their surfboard and sandy feet, to enjoy a good meal with family and friends. And perhaps then paddle out for another surf! – explains Kobus Truter, Interior Designer for Harbour House Group, and the creative force behind the décor revamp
The new décor brings a breath of fresh seaside air to the space, and you experience the difference the moment you arrive. The specially designed wallpaper of coastal motifs makes an eye-catching entrance, while the quirky chandelier handmade from hawser rope and glass buoys lend an air of laid back charm. Vintage photographs of Muizenberg celebrate the restaurants location. The coastal culture is brought indoors with suspended wooden fishing boats, a clever visual nod to the local ‘trek-net’ fishermen of False Bay.
The bar counters are ideal for a convivial catch-up over a cold beer and a quick bite, while sea-facing counters with panoramic windows that show off the view, lend themselves to a glass of chilled white wine, a few starters, and a platter of fresh sushi.
As with the décor, on the revamped menu the ocean reigns supreme, with a delicious emphasis on superb seafood. The central grill has been overhauled to create a dedicated sushi counter with talented sushi chefs slicing and rolling in a show kitchen that subtly separates the bar from the main restaurant.
Here a kids’ area to one side offers beanbags for busy young bodies and a large chalkboard-wall for doodling.
We’re giving guests a much greater variety of seafood to choose from, especially when it comes to fresh fish, and each day we’ll have three or four different line fish on the menu. – explains Ryan Daniels, Head Chef for Live Bait Surfers Corner. Live Bait is also a passionate supporter of the South African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI), and all line fish sold in the restaurant is ‘green-listed’ as sustainable.
Alongside the mouth-watering line fish the, the menu includes a selection of delectable new dishes. The ‘Soup of the Day’ – think hearty cauliflower or fragrant tomato – is ideal for warming up after a session in the surf, while the trio of Cape Malay-inspired curries will ward away any winter chills.
Rock Shrimp Tempura with miso mayonnaise is definitely going to be one of the most popular new starters. The larger choice of platters will also be welcomed, with the generous Family Platter of line fish, prawns, calamari and mussels ideal for sharing family-style around the table. – Ryan Coetzee, General Manager of Live Bait Surfers Corner.
It’s a case of evolution, not revolution, for this popular seaside eatery. Offering better value and a wider choice than ever before, it’s another good reason to stop by ‘The Berg’ this winter.
Live Bait Surfers Corner is located at 70 Beach Road, Muizenberg. The restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday from 12h00 to 22h00. For reservations call 021 788 2705; email muizenberg@livebait.co.za.
Directions to Live Bait Muizenberg
70 Beach Road
Muizenberg
Cape Town
7950
021 788 2705
