What do you get when you combine Cape Town’s resident broth bar with chef John van Zyl? The answer is a minimalistic yet flavour-packed experience in the form of Melting Pot, the pop-up that will live at Marrow’s 83 Loop Street location until mid-May. Previously the head chef at Thali, chef John left the Liam Tomlin-owned restaurant a year ago and has now teamed up with chefs Stefan Roos (who worked with him at Thali) and Sage Fell to open Melting Pot. Abigail Donnelly, Woolworths TASTE food director and former editor of Eat Out, went to have a taste.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melting Pot Pop-Up (@marrowbroth) on Feb 20, 2019 at 10:59pm PST

Fast facts

Cost: R70 average main meal
Parking: Uber or brave bustling Loop Street
Star ratings: Food and drinks: 5; Service: 4; Ambience: 4

Food

This is a one-of-a-kind experience, where contemporary dishes are packed with bold flavours that are reminiscent of Korean, Thai, Sri Lankan, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melting Pot Pop-Up (@marrowbroth) on Feb 25, 2019 at 6:47am PST

Each dish, from the spicy flavours layered and smooshed into a bowl of dhal to the cracking good fried chicken with a lip-smacking soya-mayo dressing are made with a rich and full depth of flavour that knocks your socks off. Other options could include a Peruvian pork bun, fish tacos or sashimi line fish. End with an affogato.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melting Pot Pop-Up (@marrowbroth) on Feb 27, 2019 at 1:42am PST

Drinks

Bring your own or ask for the ‘extra olives’.

Service

As minimalistic as everything else. Simply order and pay at the counter and your food will be brought to you.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melting Pot Pop-Up (@marrowbroth) on Feb 19, 2019 at 6:09am PST

Ambience

It’s hip; a cute small hole-in-the-wall spot with tiny stools. It makes this relaxed place very special and simple.

And…

The experience is minimalistic, but if you love great food then this is the perfect spot for you. This is my kind of food and I’m sure to be a regular. Can’t wait!

Already been to Melting Pot? Remember to review your experience using our free app.