It’s not only the Christmas pudding that’s getting lit this year! Retro flambéed food is back. Here’s where to try the trend around South Africa.

Arbour Café (Illovo)

Hidden behind the stylish shops of Wrenrose Court you’ll find an enchanting leaf-dappled alcove, aptly named ‘Arbour’. Robyn Timpson, chef and owner of the French-inspired café and crêperie has created a whimsical and elegant space that will nourish your soul as well as your stomach. On offer are two flambéed options – both flamed in the kitchen, not tableside. The flambéed chorizo, tomato, mozzarella and basil galette (a buckwheat pancake) (R94) is flamed with Cape Hope Brandy in the kitchen. If you’re after something sweet, try the brandy- flambéed crepe with orange butter sauce, orange segments, caramel and ice cream (R69).

Cantina & Craft (East London)

This buzzing Mexican spot serves up delicious tacos, great craft beers and legendary churros. We can recommend the Jose the prawn taco, with prawns flambéed in tequila (R99 for two tacos or R149 for three). Wheat-free tacos and carb-free tacos (lettuce leaves or mushrooms) are also available.

Blowfish (Tableview)

People come from miles around dine here for that famous view of Table Mountain across the bay. In addition to SASSI green-listed fish and a winning dulce de leche cheesecake, the flambéed chicken livers are popular here. A starter portion is yours for R49.

The view from Blowfish. Photo supplied.

Cattle Baron (Constantia)

This high-end chain serves up excellent beef ribs, and stellar chips, but the pièce de résistance is their famous chateaubriand, flambéed at the table with brandy. It comes with a Bearnaise and mushroom sauce, for good measure. R175 for 200g or R 199 for 300g. (Note that the brandy flavour does linger, so this is recommended for brandy lovers.)

Steak at Cattle Baron. Photo supplied.

Picnic (Bloemfontein)

This charming lake-side restaurant is famous for their French toast, salads and sarmies. If you’re after something a little heartier, try the pan-fried brandy-flambéed fillet with mushroom sauce and chips for R136. It’s also available as a pretty spectacular sandwich with rocket, brie and caramelised onion. (Also R136.)

Want to try it at home? Here’s how to flambé steak the easy way, yourself.

Rump, rib-eye, sirloin… Woolies has all your steak preferences covered. Get your favourite cut, now on promotion in-store. On the topic of all things meaty, don’t miss Woolies’ online rib special, happening now! That’s the weekend braai, sorted, then.