Working with Asian and French influences, co-owner chef Jess Doveton has created a casual and sophisticated menu of small plates at the Acid Food & Wine bar. The menu changes regularly according to seasons and inspiration, but also according to what the kitchen can handle.

The latter speaks to the broader meaning of sustainability which considers the sustainability of the staff and team. The bestselling dish is Jess’s take on the classic beef tartare, followed by a new favourite: the okonomiyaki pancake with smoked pork belly, fried calamari and bonito flakes.

Jemma Styer, co-owner and sommelier’s approach to the small wine menu makes it accessible as opposed to elitist, while bringing high-quality wines to the forefront. The special curation of bubbles, whites, rosé and reds promotes small, independent as well as female black and brown producers.

Jemma plays around with different and interesting varietals which include the Columbar Syrah, the Genevieve Syrah MCC and the Kara-Tara Pinot Noir. These are available by the glass and bottle.

Both menus change regularly to keep things interesting.

The space – designed by Tag Design (who also designed Morning Glory) – is the coming together of sleek and vintage tones. The convergence of the feminine and masculine is in the soft and hard curves and textures of the décor, with the horseshoe-shaped bar and the wine cellar as the focal point.

Great wine and flavourful dishes with a warm and laid-back ambience, Acid Food & Wine bar is an exciting addition to Jozi’s food and wine scene.

Jess spent a lot of time cooking abroad before consulting for a few restaurants locally. Her Thai heritage and how she plays with flavour influenced the menu at Peachy and made it interesting during her time there.

Jemma managed several restaurants before becoming a sommelier and she brings her project management and logistical skills as well as her academic leanings to Acid. The ethos of the bar is about doing things differently.