Shebeens, Shebeens, Oh Baby When She Moves, She Moves

The Shebeen

A remedy to the previous night's breakdown, The Shebeen South African Pub & Braai's menu reads like a delicious wet dream. Cape mussels, huge salads topped with salmon, ground nut stew, Sosatie, and grilled specialties galore, I feel like to write an effective review will take me at least two dozen visits so I can try everything they have to offer. But last night was a good head start.

Durban spiced chicken - two large chicken breasts with cumin, coriander, and cardamom skewered on large sugar canes. What could be better? The chicken's a bit dry, but no worries, there's plenty of jus underneath to soak up. And if you need more flavor, it's served with a spicy voodoo sauce of kick - it might not seem like it, but wait for the afterbite-in-the-ass. And you'll keep coming back for more. The mielie pap and mango chutney cut the spice nicely, and the whole dish comes together in a really wonderful way.
As already evidenced, the menu is certainly influenced by other cuisines. Indian samosas, Malaysian satays, and British fish and chips all make their way into the pub. Somehow, it all manages to work.

The ambiance is wonderful as well. Inside, big plush leather couches welcome you an upscale pub setting, one where you wouldn't feel guilty kicking back with a beer or ordering something stiffer. Outside, the patio has a closed, private feeling, so although it's situated right in the parking lot of a strip mall, large wrought iron tables and chairs spaced comfortably apart from one another make you forget all about the traffic outside.

Though a little bit pricey (averaging $17 per entree) it's worth every penny.

Geniet!

-M.