There's
a number of places you can go to here in Cape Town when you feel
like listening to some nice live jazz music, but none like this one:
The Crypt.
For
a jazz restaurant that opened their doors only a 10 days ago, I have
one word, impressive. From the very first time when I made our
reservations over the telephone, till the last glass of red wine that
we had, the evening was pure joy, and still lingers in my memory
along with that final soft jazz note played from the beautiful white
grand piano.
Situated
underneath the St. George's Cathedral at number 1 Wale Street, Cape
Town, the venue itself makes for something truly special. It's the
combination of being right there at the entrance to The Cape Gardens,
along with the majestic presence of the cathedral that already sets
the tone for this unique little restaurant. I say little, because the
venue itself is not all that big, but that's why it's so perfect.
It's intimate, and sometimes that's exactly what you want.
Friday
saw the Amanda Tiffin Trio performing at The CRYPT. They consist of
Amanda Tiffin – piano/vocals, Romy Brauteseth – bass, and
Heinrich Goosen – Drums. Although they haven't played much
together, these guys know how to have fun on a stage and the musical
intuition they all possess made for some great live jazz moments.
In
between cheeky jazz-piano notes and low-key bass ones, myself and my
girlfriend had our starters. I had the 'Grilled Spicy Prawn Skewer'
and she had 'Grilled Black Mushrooms with Creme Fraise'. Both were
prepared to perfection. As drink, we opted for a blended bottle of
Cabernet-Savignon,Cabernet Franc Merlot, and Petit Verdot .
To
add to the already intimate feel of the restaurant, we were
introduced to the chef – Andre Daniels. Andre is a local, self
taught chef and were so kind to take time away from the kitchen to
come and explain to us some of his techniques when preparing food. I
thought that this was a nice, personal touch.
We
both ordered their Grilled Steak Special , medium-rare of course,
with Baby Potatoes as side, and while waiting for our main meal,
Amanda and her fellow band members made the evening flow along
effortlessly with some classic jazz improvisations. I've never seen a
live Jazz-act before, so getting this opportunity to finally
experience it for myself was a real treat.
Later
we met co-owners Derk Blaisse, and Mike and Dianne Rossi. To end an
already perfect evening of great company, food and wine, these two
highly talented individuals, who clearly want to share their love for
jazz with people, took to the stage and performed some classic
numbers. Mike on saxophone and Derk behind the piano.
Visiting
The CRYPT, was a night out in town to remember. You should definitely
go have one there too.
For
more information on The CRYPT Jazz-restaurant visit their website:
Book reservations
on contact number:
082-515-7051
or email:
thecryptjazz@gmail.com
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