The Alba Restaurant, Cape Town South Africa

Dave and I were invited to have lunch at The Alba Restaurant, a cruise and dine experience at the V&A Waterfront.

The Alba Restaurant

It is important to keep in mind that the cruise part of the experience takes place within the Waterfront. You will not go out into Table Bay, and this was quite a disappointment. More so because our booking was postponed twice due to the wind situation. They cannot leave their mooring if the wind is blowing. And I cannot see why they don’t just stay tied up if they don’t actually go anywhere. We spent most of the cruising time outside of the fish factories, looking at trawlers and office blocks.

The lunch cruise

The cruise lasts for 2 hours, starting at 13h00. We were asked to be there by 12h45 to ensure prompt boarding. There was no-one waiting at the greeting station, and we were called aboard by Michelle, the hostess. We were shown to our table and given a glass of MCC each to start off our experience. A bottle of sparkling mineral water was also brought to the table at our request. We eventually left the mooring at 13h17 due to the late arrival of some of the guests.

Starters and main course

With a choice of 3 starters, Dave went for the Karoo Springbok carpaccio, paired with the Rhinofields Merlot from Durbanville Hills. The carpaccio was thickly sliced and not what we are used to. I had the citrus cured salmon paired with Rhinofields chardonnay. My starter was average and in need of extra citrus flavour. For mains Dave went with the beef fillet medallions. The waitress did not ask him how he wanted them done and I am not sure it mattered that he asked for it rare. I do not think that the meat is cooked to order, and that all that happens onboard is plating. I had the braised Springbok shank which was served with under seasoned mash. The shanks were tiny, and not very hot. Dave stuck with the Merlot, and I joined him for this course.

Desserts and coffee

Dessert was described as a dark chocolate mousse and milk chocolate truffles. The mousse was made from milk chocolate, and was grainy. Despite there being a full-blown espresso machine, we could not have an espresso. The only coffee available was an Americano.

My feelings about The Alba Restaurant

As you can tell, I was not that impressed with the food. And I left feeling underwhelmed. The experience was pleasant and the highlight was the dolphin swimming alongside us. The music is loud and the acoustics are not brilliant. Our dining experience on The Alba Restaurant ended at 14h45 and we left a tip for the waitress for her service. The cost is R595 per person and is all-inclusive of food, wine and gratuity, and thus offers great value for money.

Contact them on: +27 65 975 8060

Disclosure: Dave and I were invited for lunch on The Alba Restaurant by Michelle Smit, from Tourvest Restaurants and Taverns. This post is in line with my blogging policy.

Inspiration published on Lavender and Lime December 12:

• • 2016 – Honeycomb Ice Cream
  • 2013 – Preserved Lemon And Pickled Garlic Gremolata
  • 2012 – Withington Wines
  • 2011 – Creamy Pasta With Beef, Sundried Tomatoes And Mushrooms
  • 2010 – Friday’s Food Quiz Number 42

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