Artsy and cosy, The Woodlands Eatery has grown a loyal following among Capetonians who are drawn here as much by the relaxed, shabby-chic décor as by the tasty pizzas.

The mood: “We’ve tried to create a comfortable feel in the restaurant; like our own home,” explains Sarah-Mays Cronwright, wife to chef, Larry Steenkamp. The atmosphere is relaxed and they have certainly succeeded in creating a space that is personal, unique and interesting. It almost feels as if you’re visiting a good friend’s home.

The designer: While Sarah-Mays is the master decorator behind the stylish Woodland’s interior, she says that she had plenty of help from Larry, and carpenter, James Johnston. “Larry and James were fantastic,” she says. “We did the entire interior in two months.”

The details: Two months is a very short time when you consider that almost everything in the restaurant was sourced second-hand and reworked. The feeling of being surrounded by objects that have been lovingly restored really comes through. Both the mirror and the bar are refurbished industrial windows, and the eye-catching lampshades were made with frames sourced at auctions and fabric from St Leger & Viney and Fabric World in Woodstock.

The food: Only fresh ingredients are used, and the menu changes weekly. The bistro-style meals usually include seafood, pasta, burgers and the vegetarian chickpea burger. They also serve gourmet pizzas with decadent toppings like slow-cooked lamb.

By Monique Broumels

Does Woodlands Eatery have what it takes to win the Boschendal Style Award at the Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards?