If ever there was a reason to brave Sandton traffic, let it be for the re-imagined SLOW Lounge that now welcomes members and non-members alike. Just opposite the Sandton Gautrain station you’ll find recently launched The Course at SLOW in the City – a sleek sanctuary amid the congested suburb. It’s a great spot for business lunches, lush after-work drinks or an impressive impromptu mid-week date.

Expect spectacular Sandton views at The Course. Photo supplied.

Under the helm of executive chef Eli Williams, the menu is inspired by a rotating premium alcohol brand and its aim is to surprise your taste buds. For The Course’s launch this season, each tapas-style plate on the pairing menu is served with single-malt whisky Glenfiddich. You could receive a pairing like Moroccan-spiced beef fillet carpaccio with a citrus salad and pea puree, accompanied by a herbal mix of 15-year-old Glenfiddich, orange juice, Jagermeister and a ginger-and-sherry orgeat. (The small plates and whiskies are priced separately.)

A dish at The Course. Photo supplied.

For more main course options, there’s a moreish bistro-style menu on offer as well as items from the grill like lamb chops, steak, calamari and more. Cocktails on the pairing menu have been expertly conceptualised by mixologist Evert de Jong and are unlikely to resemble anything you’ve tried before. For example, there’s the festive cocktail called Hypothesis – a mix of whisky, berry syrup, apple cider shrub and sparkling wine.

Cocktails are as surprising as the mains. Photo supplied.

The interiors, designed by duo Tonic, exude contemporary refinement. You’ll spend a good while taking in the super-slick bar, as well as the sophisticated marble tables and walls with brass accents.

The Course at SLOW in the City is open Mondays to Fridays from 7am to 9pm.