Tucked away in the leafy streets of Birdhaven – and when I say tucked away, I mean unsuspectingly tucked behind a bookshelf between a coffee shop and a hair salon is The Library Food Club. This place feels like Jozi’s best-kept secret…a little mysterious, a little luxurious, and entirely immersive. Their concept of themed culinary “chapters” transports you to a new corner of the world with each menu, and the Peruvian Chapter is no exception.
We began the night with the Pisco Experience: an elegant flight of Peru’s famous spirit, crafted into cocktails that were both fragrant and complex. It set the tone perfectly for what was to follow.
The Ceviche Sharing Stone arrived next: vibrant, fresh, and artfully plated. The acidity and spice danced together – a beautiful interpretation of traditional Peruvian flavours.
For mains, I chose the Mushroom Tamales, a vegetarian dream filled with earthy, comforting notes, while Don went for the Rib-Eye with Chimichurri, rich and perfectly cooked with a hint of smokiness. The tamales transported me back to my time spent in Mexico, as the flavours are just so authentic!
The service, as always, was thoughtful and unhurried, the kind that makes you feel like a guest in someone’s story rather than just a table for two, our host keeping our glasses topped up with his secret concoction from a traditional Peruvian teapot.
If you’re after an evening that’s more than just dinner – something immersive, intimate, and beautifully curated, The Library Food Club is a must. Each “chapter” is limited and changes often, so book ahead and prepare to travel, plate by plate.
Date Night Dinner 