In the mood for excellent quality food in a warm, welcoming environment to wind down the week? Borage Bistro, in the heart of Cape Town, with its intimate vibe and casual service, is just the place – every Thursday and Friday from 6.30pm. (Kitchen closes at 9pm.)

While it is now open for dinner reservations on Thursday and Friday, the trendy restaurant inside Portside, Cape Town’s tallest building, also offers artisanal breakfasts from Monday to Saturday, which include handmade pastries and some of the best eggs Benedict in town. Lunch is also served from Monday to Friday.

For the end-of-week dinners, the small à la carte menu adapts according to the seasons, using mostly locally and ethically sourced produce in dishes that are European-inspired, but with a local touch. The wine list (which changes often) includes only four red and four white options chosen to complement the food. Wines come from smaller independent wine merchants and there’s always something special in store, such as a salty Cab Franc from Kalk Bay or the ever-so-light LAM Pinotage.

If you’re having dessert, don’t miss the chocolate tart with homemade raspberry-ginger ice cream.

The pedigree of chef Frank Marks, who worked with Heston Blumenthal at Dinner by Heston in London and briefly at The Pot Luck Club, shines through at Borage – especially his scientific approach to food preparation. Frank’s open kitchen is a drawcard in itself, with the hustle bustle of the team presenting quite a show for guests.

Meals at the bistro are Halaal-friendly and the chef can always accommodate vegans, vegetarians and other dietary requirements. Just notify them when you make your reservation and the creative kitchen team will whip up something delicious.

Guests can look forward to friendly, warm service and a relaxed atmosphere in a restaurant that truly values hospitality. The restaurant can be booked for private functions – they’re extremely flexible and accommodating. They offer different menus depending on the function, as well as flower arrangements and celebration cakes. Whether it’s a work function, bachelorette or birthday, Borage can host up to 45 people inside (more if the weather is good and the terrace can be opened).

Keep an eye out for Borage Bistro’s monthly food and wine pairing evenings held in collaboration with SA wine farms. Also look out for the Borage Supper Club on every last Tuesday of every month, a special social experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Visit the Borage Bistro listing to see reviews and more.

Photographs by Mpumelelo Macu and Jodi Windvogel.