Durban - It’s my favourite time of year, schools are closed, the sun is out and you officially do not need an excuse to have those sundowners you’ve been putting off with your friends.
Here’s a list of the best places to have sundowners in Durban.
California Dreaming
I recently had a delicious bottle of Mascato with my friends at this spot; we sat out on the deck and soaked up the beautiful afternoon sun. I absolutely appreciate the laid back and relaxed vibe at this restaurant, the service is good but the waitrons are not overly zealous so you get to enjoy conversation with your friends. Their cocktails are very different from most establishments, of course you get the normal Cosmopolitan and Long Island Ice Tea but they have created a few inhouse cocktails that are worth a try for the adventurous type. What’s also great is the view of the Durban promenade, the positioning of this spot is a gem.
Tip: Try their California Skyy.
Ocean Terrace, the Oyster Box Hotel
The Oyster Box Hotel is one of my favourite places to relax, I enjoy the service and of course the fantastic views of the Indian Ocean. It wouldn’t be my first choice for cocktails but if you prefer your wine then it’s a definite spot to wine and dine. Relaxing at a 5 star hotel can be intimidating for some but the staff at the hotel are extremely welcoming and offer advice on anything you might select from the menu. A bonus is the chance of maybe bumping into your favourite celebrity because this is where they all hang out.
Spiga D’oro Florida Road
Spiga is very much a Durban landmark, when people say “Florida Road”, one immediately thinks of Spiga. Even with its recent renovations that saw it take a knock in size, this spot remains very popular among locals and visitors. My favourite time of the week to visit Spiga is a Sunday afternoon. There is a mixed crowed, from BEE Tenderpreneurs to Morningside madams and the young and hip. I love Spiga because, not many restaurants stock Prosecco, so having it at a uniquely Italian restaurant on one of Durban’s most cosmopolitan streets is great. Spiga is also a great place for people watching, something we all secretly enjoy.
Tasha’s Gateway
Everybody wants to be seen at Tasha’s, everybody wants to snap a selfie at Tasha’s and let their adoring followers see it. I can’t fault those people because I have been guilty of this in the past. Service is key to any restaurant. Guys at Tasha’s Gateway get that. The staff are friendly, they remember regulars, never forget your name and go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable. Having a table outside is ideal for those cocktails you’ll be sharing with your friends, I like relaxing on one of their couches outside – it’s in a busy area of the mall so if you want to be seen, trust me, people will see you.
Zanzibar, Westwood Mall
Zanzibar is a gem in the west, I had always heard that Zanzibar was a great place to check out, but I had never been until recently. It has a relaxed lounge atmosphere with a live band on certain days. The staff is friendly, they know their menu and the manager is endearing. What’s great about this place is the crowd it attracts, the people are unpretentious and just want to have some fun. Their outside seating area is popular with its regulars and they make a mean Long Island Ice Tea cocktail.
Sunday Tribune