Rockets is Bryanston’s newest four-storey restaurant complex and member’s club, combining a host of experiences to cater for every type of guest. In addition to the restaurant area, it comprises a rooftop garden, a champagne bar, a cognac bar, a bar and lounge for functions, and two dining rooms. We get a taste at this multi-dimensional venue known for its cocktail and tapas menus.

Fast Facts

Cost: Average main meal is R100
Serves: Tapas, contemporary fare and cocktails
Best for: Any gathering
Star ratings: Food and drinks: 4, Service: 4, Ambience: 5

A post shared by Rockets (@rockets.life) on May 12, 2017 at 7:25am PDT

Food

The vast and impressive menu may leave you feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options, inspired by a variety of cuisines, but this is one of those rare instances when there truly is no wrong choice. Pizzas, pasta, steaks, pork belly and Woodview Wagyu sirloin are among the huge variety of the mains offerings, but the best option, is probably to skip the three-course route and, instead, go for a selection of tapas.

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In the mood for Mexican? You’ll be pleased with delectable chimichurri tacos filled with flame-grilled rump, huevos rancheros salsa and Monterrey Jack cheese, and served with coriander and chimichurri sauces. Craving Moroccan? Order the tasty and succulent lamb kebabs served with garlic flatbread, hummus and tzatziki. A hankering for Asian will be satisfied by the spicy beef flatbread served with chilli, spring onions, soy sauce and coriander.

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Dessert will leave you feeling less spoilt for choice, but each option is equally as tantalising as the other. For a bit of theatre and gastronomical display, the now-famous Rockets Caramel Chocolate Bomb comes highly recommended. Served with a flourish, the salted caramel ice cream is revealed when the waiter pours hot caramel sauce on the chocolate ball that encases it.

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Drinks

Though popular for their food, Rockets’ unique cocktails also draw crowds. Besides a comprehensive wine list including South African favourites and some Champagne, the cocktail menu is particularly impressive. There are the classics as well as several selections of mojitos, daiquiris and margaritas. For those with a sweet tooth, there are milkshakes that contain almost everything, like the Popeye’s Revenge with cocoa-oat biscuits, dark chocolate-covered wafers, pecan nuts, cream, chocolate sprinkles and chocolate sauce. And, for an extra 42 bucks, you can add Stroh Rum for a headier mix of sweet indulgence.

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Service

Always cordial and warm, staff are welcoming even when you haven’t made a reservation – something which you should probably do, to have first pick of where you’d like to sit in the busy restaurant.

A post shared by Rockets (@rockets.life) on Jun 20, 2017 at 1:13am PDT

Ambience

Rockets is comfortable and cosy inside in winter, and cool and inviting outside in the warmer months. An impressive building at Bryanston’s Hobart Grove Shopping Centre, the trendy restaurant, bar and rooftop venue has added a hip vibe to the suburb. Always fun and festive, the space pulsates with good energy and music. It also welcomes all crowds – from colleagues and friends, to families and first-time Tinder dates.

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Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our full editorial policy here.