Local Dinner: Kaia Wine Bar

We have had our eye on Kaia Wine Bar for quite some time because we pass it on our way home and it looks super cute.  Then, as it turns out, Mel's coworker's husband is the owner!  So we had even more reason to show some support and finally scope it out.  And boy are we glad we did, because we think we've found our favorite local hang out!

First off, the decor of Kaia is awesome.  Rustic yet hip with lots of distressed wood, blackboard menus, and an old-school kitchenette in the back for the waiters' station.

They boast their South African cuisine, so we were curious to find out what that flavor profile would be.  They got us off to a great start with warm homemade South African bread which we were instructed to dip in the oil and then dip in the mini bowl of spices.  We tried our best to pick out the individual herbs included in the mixture, and agreed that overall it was very similar to flavors in Ethiopian cuisine.  Pretty cool!

Then for an appetizer we decided to try the short ribs.  The serving size was generous, and the char on the meat was PERFECT.  We agreed that we could easily make the ribs alone a meal.

For the main course, Mel decided to try the 

quail with fresh spring vegetables.

(the quail roasted with a lovely blend of spices; the veggies cooked so delicately, allowing their natural flavor to really shine; the sauce good enough to ask for an entire bowl of it on the side!).

DJ had the  

Pork Two Ways with apple slaw

~honey-rooibos tea ribs & IPA braised mosefund farm mangalista pork belly~

(the pork belly extremely succulent; the ribs sauced perfectly; the sauce good enough to ask for an entire bowl on the side!)

Since we had eaten light all day in preparation for this fun date night, we decided to sample even more of the menu by trying a bit of a meat and cheese plate. 

By then we were most definitely full.  But Mel mentioned in passing the connection to her co-worker's husband, and he came by the table to say hello.  Next thing we knew, a complimentary dessert was sent over for our enjoyment.  Such a nice gesture!  At first we figured we'd just taste it to be polite.  But as soon as we each took one bite, neither of us could stop eating it.  Possibly one of the best desserts we've ever had!  We cleaned the plate!

Malva Poeding 

~sticky cake with apricot crème~

Kaia - we love you!  As we were sitting there, we already started making a list of all the people we want to bring for a fine night out of food, drinks, and pleasant vibes.  We'll be back!