Looking for fried halloumi, souvlaki and kleftico? Kristia van Heerden heads to Plaka in Cresta, which she reckons is truly a restaurant for every occasion: a perfect way to kick back after a long and exhausting day of shopping and equally appropriate for a romantic date.

Food

Much has been written on the medical advantages of a Mediterranean diet, which is a good excuse to indulge at Plaka. The vegetarian tapas platter for two is a very sensual way to kick off a romantic date, but not a good option for the garlic averse. The platter consists of a number of Mediterranean delicacies like fried halloumi cheese, vegetarian dolmades, pickled beetroot, butter beans and falafel and is served with four irresistible Greek dips and pita bread. You’ll find yourself making up excuses to visit Plaka. The main course menu is a delightful medley of Greek favourites like moussaka, souvlaki, kleftico, calamari and prawns.

The folks at Plaka don’t veer from the Greek theme, which is why the dessert menu is such a delight. Think fragrant and syrupy baklava, grilled halva and traditional Greek yoghurt.

Wine

Plaka’s wine list is a comprehensive, albeit pricy, selection of wines that offers something for every palate. South Africa’s prestigious wine route is well represented in this wine list, with options ranging from Graham Beck’s Cap Classiques to Chardonnays from Franschoek, Viogniers from Paarl and the irresistible Stellenbosch Pinotage. A bottle of Haute Cabriere Chardonnay Pinot Noir is a wonderful addition to the vegetarian platter.

The by the glass selection offers an unusually wide variety of options, including Ken Forrester, Beyerskloof Pinotage and selected wines from Simonsig.

Plaka also has a refreshing cocktail menu, which includes drinks like a cucumber martini and champagne mojito.

Service

The staff at Plaka knows the menu well and make up in friendliness what they lack in speed. On busy nights, the owners can be found helping out with tables and keeping a close eye on the kitchen to ensure that every meal is exquisite.

Ambience

To dine at Plaka is to be transported to a Greek island. The white and blue interior, high ceilings and large windows somehow make you forget about the demands of city life, despite the view of the parking lot. Nothing quite beats sitting on Plaka’s porch on a warm day, sipping on a cool glass of wooded Chardonnay and lazily nibbling on some fragrant treat.

By Kristia van Heerden
Photographs courtesy of the restaurant

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