It is that time of year again. When you know that not only has summer arrived but also many of our inland visitors. Roads are busier, especially to the mall and parking is hard to find. Shopping on Sunday mornings is no longer a pleasure as around you the noise levels have increased and items on shelves usually in abundance are now out of stock!
Yes 'tis the season to be jolly!
We at Avontuur have a lot to be thankful for. Our summer season has started with an influx of out "swallows" Our European visitors that follow the sun. Never experiencing the cold bite of winter or wearing winter woollies. As you pass tables on the sun-drenched patio an eclectic m ix of languages can be heard. From German, Dutch, Italian and French.
We have regular clientèle which we see annually. It is wonderful to welcome them back and we have had a great response to our menu changes and the estates new season wines.
If you are still looking for some gift ideas, remember Julia Ball and the "hot boxes she is selling. They make sense if you are attempting to lesson your carbon footprint as well as your electricity bill! They are particularly suited to busy people that could do with some extra help in the kitchen. Her number is 0825499925 and her email address is: julia71@telkomsa.net
Also for some inspirational reading remember to check out eee.thegreentimes.co.za.
To end off I would like to share a piece from a letter I recently wrote to my family in distant lands about Avontuur.
I'm sure once you have read it, you too will be captured under its spell as we are.
"So here I sit between tables- meaning. I have just cooked for one table and am waiting to send out the next table’s main course. It is a spectacular evening. The sunset has made everything amber gold and in the distance Table Mountain looks majestic and quiet.
My restaurant is buzzing. Friday nights are good and my regulars know that we run a great special if they come early! (Which means I can leave early…?) Well sometimes anyway.
I love this farm. It is a beautiful place with many trees, lots of green. Vineyards and paddocks. Brood mares and foals. Miles and miles of gnarled vines, growing out of dusty, pale colored soil.
There is a special kind of calm here that I have not experienced before. Perhaps it is the presence of nature in such close proximity to our working environment. We have had our share of snakes, skinks, spiders, mice, various birds and my favorite, lime green chameleons. Oh and many toads and frogs!
I could not imagine working anywhere else.
9 Years is along time to be driving the same road to work. And if truth be told, I have never gotten tired of it. It is always different. Daily I am amazed at how it changes. Sometimes it is so clear you can see Simonstown in the distance. At other times you would not even know the sea was just over the horizon.
I guess its not called "Avontuur" for nothing, as it has truly been an adventure..."
Have a Blessed Christmas and a most prosperous new Year.
With best regards
Zunia, Melanie and our staff.
Avontuur Estate Restaurant
021 855 4296
