I was not sure what to expect as I was asked to meet my friend Lindzi at a new café called Skinny Legs & All. Its white windowed façade, with in descript writing, did not prepare me for my memorable visit.
As I walked into the Café, I was immediately struck by the whiteness off the space. A long grey marble counter, reminiscent of those found in French cafes, is the focal point of the space. Covering the walls is art work belonging to the previous gallery owner and landlord. Making a menu decision is a very difficult feat when faced with a counter full of freshly baked goods.
As we sat down at one of the white square tables, with mismatched school room chairs, Lindzi introduced me to the two owners. Jamie and Jessie are twins, originating from Joburg but after a year at UCT, they have made Cape town their home and this café their business.
In terms of sustainability they are on the right track. No plastic bottles, glass only!…and whatever can be recycled, is recycled.
All the furniture comes from used furniture stores around the Cape
There are very few leftovers and what is available at the end of the day is given to the staff to enjoy at home.
The girls have gone all out and have had their dishes made by Andile at Imiso ceramics, in the Biscuit Mill. My granola, fruit and yoghurt concoction was even better tasting when I knew that it was served in a locally made bowl rather than the typical Chinese-made knock offs.
The coffee was aromatic, fair trade and beautifully presented with a buttery shortbread on the side. Who could ask for more!
The final touchs to make me feel right at home in a Parisian bistro was the beautiful black and white bathroom and Liaison, the girls’ new Italian greyhound puppy, rummaging through his basket-bed looking for his morning treat.
Thought slightly hard to find, look directly across from the I Art Gallery on Loop Street and you will find this gem. It is well worth the visit.
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