The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage or spiritual path followed by many annually; it leads to the tomb in Spain that is said to house the remains of St James. This journey is the inspiration behind the name of a new, hole-in-the-wall eatery and coffee spot in Buitengracht Street, in Cape Town’s CBD.

El Camino Global Eatery is owned and operated by Marijus and Jessica, a couple who met while each was walking the Camino de Santiago – seems it was kismet.

The interior is cosy; the rough, open face brick walls are the perfect backdrop for the quirky southwestern touches. A big geometric carpet brings warmth, cacti and animal skulls set the tone, and leather suitcases and travel memorabilia give the feeling of being on a journey, which is exactly what El Camino is all about.

Lithuanian-born Marijus worked as a sushi chef in London and brings a definite Asian influence to the menu.

Dishes such as mushroom teriyaki spring rolls and Temaki are mixed in with sandwiches and salads. We enjoyed the roasted red pepper, avo, hummus and feta sandwich, which is served on toasted bread of your choice from Woodstock Bakery. We loved the garlicky hummus and the crisp ciabatta. We also highly recommend the ‘Cuban’ – slow-roasted pulled pork, gypsy ham, emmental cheese and gherkins.

There is a range of breakfast dishes to choose from – a DIY (build your own) selection, as well as oats, granola and benedict options. El Camino serves up Tribe coffee, so stop in and get your morning fix. You can enjoy it at one of the pavement tables that overlook the busy CBD, before heading to the office.

While your visit to this El Camino may not lead you to deep spiritual enlightenment, your journey will lead you to friendly service, great coffee and yummy food – and on a busy day in the Mother City, it runs a close second.

Simple food with an Asian influence