You enter an unassuming skyrise, slap-bang in the middle of Cape Town’s bustling metropolis, with zero expectations…
One elevator ride later, and you’re transported to a place like no other: Utopia.
With panoramic views of the gorgeous Mother City, from a vantage point that can only be described as idyllic, this restaurant exudes charisma.
Described by a patron as “a little slice of paradise in the heart of the CBD,” picture Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the sprawling Atlantic ocean, all within eye’s view. Perched on the rooftop, bathed in golden-hour light, we knew the night that lay before us was sure to be dazzling and bright.
Cue Nikita Zoulis, the new chef on the Utopia block, and his otherworldly Summer Menu. Having reimagined and reinvigorated the offerings, executive chef Nikita and his French-born sous chef, Nutroune, served an outstanding Mediterranean-style selection of tapas.
Think delicious Greek feta saganaki (black and white sesame-crusted feta) drizzled with hot honey, New Zealand muscles, and desserts so unique they make you say, “Oh!” Treated like queens, and with bubbles in hand, we were warmly invited to indulge in the new Summer Menu at Utopia.
Imagine the freshness of the Panzanella salad, featuring wild rocket, green onions, white Spanish anchovies, and a balsamic raspberry vinaigrette (one way to zhuzh up a salad).
Or, the ocean-inspired, deep-fried calamari served to perfection with a zesty lemon gel. Not to mention the “grab and rip” white bait on a bed of tzatziki that melts like butter in your mouth and the light, perfectly seared octopus (Nikita’s favorite dish of the night).
Other evening highlights included the small plates, which featured the elements of a Greek salad, chopped and placed inside a blanched, marinated tomato, surrounded by feta mousse and tomato vinaigrette, providing a zero-waste dish where all ingredients are used. The pièce de résistance is that your waiter will beautifully slice the cheesy ball down the center with a knife upon arrival at your table, a WOW-worthy affair, as the cheese spills out gloriously!
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, this isn’t Chef Nikita’s first rodeo. Having cheffed in the UK and all over Johannesburg, where he grew up, you can trust that every dish at Utopia is meticulously prepared and perfect for summer dining.
A fine night out for ladies on the town, or a romantic dinner for two, be sure to elevate your evenings at Utopia, where your dreams might just come true.
Cape Town. Source: Unsplash
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