Sandton News Café has undergone some serious refurbishments over the past 10 weeks or so. In the last week of April, the eatery officially reopened with a big celeb bash and a bigger, blingier look and feel, which includes more spacious outdoor and indoor seating areas, plus a separate smoking lounge reminiscent of a classic James Bond movie set.

The exterior is all contemporary, featuring a wooden deck, cosy fireplace and water feature. The interior retains the modern theme, with plush furnishings including gorgeous chandeliers that hang luxuriously low.

Everything razzles and dazzles, perfectly suited for the Sandton in-crowd. Both the food and cocktail menus have had revamps too, with quite a number of additions. Foodies can enjoy typical News Café fare or try out new signature items like flatbreads, which are lightly spiced toasted tortillas topped with a choice of beef, chicken, lamb or vegetables.

One dish to look out for is the fabulously South African chakalaka rump (just in time for the 2010 World Cup). It’s a 300g steak topped with a homemade spicy chakalaka and accompanied with deep-fried mielie-pap cheese balls.

If you’re inclined to knock back a post-work drink, then check out the fresh new cocktail menu, which includes some updated News Café classics and some completely new ones.

We love the exotically inspired Tropical Splash and Quay West cocktails – both of which have a slight coconut note blended with fruit and floral flavours. Or go for an old favourite – a caipirinha, martini or mojito – with a berry or coconut twist. Cheers!