La Parada is no stranger to a bit of buzz. Having been open on Bree Street for a while, it has easily become one of Cape Town’s hottest spots. The recently opened Constantia Nek branch has some seriously big shoes to fill, and it seems like it’s up to the challenge. Architect David Townsend and team managed to overhaul one of the most iconic heritage buildings in Constantia and refresh it, while maintaining its charm.
So what about the food? If you’ve frequented the Bree Street branch, you will know that La Parada turns out some smashing authentic Spanish tapas and Constantia Nek is following suit. Expect to see all the usual La Parada suspects from their prawn and Serrano ham croquetas, patatas bravas and chermoula marinated beef flank steak, alongside a well-curated wine list.
The best thing about La Parada’s menu is the way you can mix and match dishes to form your own meal. Our favourite thing is that you can always order more dishes, allowing you to settle into a long and lazy afternoon or evening. Regardless of how you work the menu, be sure to order the seared sesame crusted tuna, drizzled in a fresh and bright anchovy dressing on top of a delicate green bean salad. If summer was a dish, it would probably look like this. The linefish a la plancha is another perfectly put together plate of food, served with a spicy corn and avocado salad and homemade Romesco sauce. Lastly, what else makes for the ideal snack while sipping on wine in the sun? Something fried, of course, and the salt and pepper calamari on offer is excellent. What arrives is a mountain of crispy, perfectly seasoned calamari and a wonderful aioli for dipping.
Whatever mood you’re in, La Parada will have you covered. If you’re popping in for a cheeky after work drink however, you’ll probably want to cancel your plans for the evening. Once you get settled with a glass of wine and those views, you’re going to find it hard not to order everything off the menu.
