It is rare that we go back to the same restaurant within a month. But Doppio Zero sent me a R100 voucher to use in the month of my birthday. So, I had a look at the loyalty points that I had accumulated, and combined with the voucher, it seems like a great idea.
Once again, I do not make a reservation and although the restaurant is full, we get a very well-placed table. I browse the wine list and pick the Glen Carlou Merlot 2020. Having recently done a short course, “How to Taste Wine – By a Sommelier”, I now perform the ritual of tasting the wine. Before I had waived the option. I have made a good choice. I do often wonder what would happen if the patron did not like the wine when they were tasting it. Would the person not be charged for the bottle and be given another option? What if they do not like the second one either? I suppose similar questions arise when the bill cannot be settled. We will have to ask Keagan. I know many restaurants in China give you the bill when you order and only after paying do they prepare the food.
This time I remember to use the Vivino app. I scan the wine and the app says voila. Except it is the wrong wine. Still the Glen Carlou, but the Cabernet Sauvignon and not the Merlot. Luckily, I have the option of changing it. Phew, wouldn’t like to review the wrong blend. Now onto the ordering. I would have gone for the fish cakes, but they are not on the menu anymore and I had the pizza last time. Amanda cautions against the pasta. What am I left with? Ah ha, the 300g steak and chips, but substitute the chips for a side salad. Normally the side salads pale in comparison to a normal salad, but this was one of the best side salads I have had. Amanda orders the calamari bowl.
We discuss all sorts of administrative topics; we have a lot to think about and plan. Greece is coming up. The food is amazing as usual, combined with great wine and even better company. This time Amanda also takes some photos for us. I must smile at the other people in the restaurant as they watch Amanda set up the camera and take photos. They are obviously not used to it.
As always for dessert a decaf cappuccino and a last glass of wine. We receive a very generous discount on our bill, but I do calculate the tip on the full amount. As we leave the place is noticeably emptier. A quick stop at the ATM to draw cash for the painters who are busy painting our house. Another administrative topic. We return home late only to find that our 3-year-old son is still awake. We were expecting everyone to be asleep. ‘Come on Aaron, it is time for bed’. The 3 of us climb into bed with the intention of returning Aaron to his bed once he falls asleep. In the morning our alarm goes off and Aaron is still lying in bed with us. He is such a beautiful little man.
Date Night Dinner 