With their Dukes burgers already a household name among Joburgers, Ari Shapiro and Lori Baar recently took up a new challenge in the form of Jo’Anna Melt Bar on 7th Street. The neighborhood, frequented by congregations of strange students, artists, eccentric car guards (and possibly the best hot dog stand in the country), has leaned towards more shabby than chic in recent years, but this venue with its parquet bar and toasted treats could be just the thing to help restore Melville to its former glory.

Food

Being greeted by the smell of melted cheese might not be what you expect when you enter a bar, but you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone complain. According to co-owner Lori, a ‘melt bar’ is a type of establishment that serves everything with melted cheese. Some might call it heaven. Expect everything from the most comforting of all meals – the simple and elegant toasted sandwich – to Nutella on toast bread with pecan nuts, fresh strawberries and melted marshmallows, or a happiness-inducing toasted macaroni and cheese sandwich with mozzarella, cheddar and herby tomato sauce.

Wine

Don’t let the cheesy goodness fool you – Jo’Anna Melt Bar is still a bar in the true sense of the word. In addition to a selection of cocktails, craft beers and any hard tack you can think of, Jo’Anna Melt Bar also offers a small range of the more popular options for grape lovers. The wine list consists of easy-drinking South African favourites like reds from Porcupine Ridge, delectable Beyerskloof pinotage and Leopard’s Leap. You could also indulge in a glass of Haute Cabrière chardonnay/pinot noir blend to pair with your creamy, crunchy toasted treat or order a bottle of Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel for a special occasion.

Service

Jo’Anna Melt Bar has both bartenders and waiters to attend to your needs and they don’t leave you hanging. Expect a full glass, a warm, cheesy meal speedily prepared, and friendly staff.

Ambience

This is an urban bar with a hint of nostalgia. Industrial face brick chrome and cement are contrasted by a decorative pressed ceiling and a gorgeous wooden bar. As a lunchtime destination, the bar offers speed and quirkiness, but it’s at night, when the strange and lovely creatures of Melville emerge, that Jo’Anna comes into her own.

By Kristia van Heerden

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