As the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, we found ourselves strolling along Beach Road in Mouille Point, Cape Town. The sound of waves crashing against the shore led us to Sotano, a lively seaside restaurant that had been whispering promises of fresh seafood and locally sourced delights. With eager anticipation, we stepped inside, ready to indulge in a culinary experience that would linger in our memories like the salt air that filled our lungs. This hidden gem combines the freshest seafood, Mediterranean flair, and sushi bar vibes all in one unforgettable location.

Our gastronomic adventure at Sotano began with a duo of exceptional starters that perfectly set the stage for the meal ahead. The stuffed calamari was a masterful blend of flavours and textures, featuring Patagonian tubes filled with a tantalising mix of chorizo and Danish feta. Accompanied by squid tentacles, a harissa napolitana sauce, and edamame beans, the rich, spicy chorizo and creamy feta created a delightful contrast, beautifully complemented by the tangy sauce and the crunch of the edamame.

The crunchy calamari roll with avocado, calamari strips, and a sweet chili mayo topping was equally impressive, offering a delightful crunch with every bite, as well as a zesty kick that elevated the dish to new heights. The combination of sweet and spicy flavours made each bite a true delight.

For our main courses, we were spoiled for choice. The Spanish paella was a symphony of flavours, featuring saffron-infused short grain rice cooked with an array of ingredients including peppers, tomatoes, chicken, chorizo, line fish, prawns, calamari, and mussels. The white wine seafood broth brought all the elements together beautifully, creating a dish that was both hearty and refined.

The dry-aged grass-fed beef sirloin on the bone was a carnivore’s dream. Served with roasted bone marrow and patatas bravas, this dish was a celebration of rich, robust flavours. The beef was tender and perfectly cooked, while the bone marrow added an indulgent touch that made the dish truly memorable.

The grilled fresh line fish of the day was a testament to Sotano’s commitment to freshness. Served with garlic butter potato fondant, broccolini, baby spinach, and sauce vierge, this dish was a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. The fish was cooked to perfection, and the accompanying vegetables were fresh and vibrant.

To conclude our evening, we indulged in a pair of delightful desserts. The Gelato, featuring two scoops of vanilla ice cream and lemon curd, was a refreshing and tangy end to our meal. The burnt basque cheesecake was a decadent treat, with its creamy centre and caramelized top providing a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Sotano’s dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients was evident in every dish we tasted. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the stunning seaside location, made our evening at an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, Sotano is a must-visit destination in Cape Town. We left with our senses indulged, our appetites satiated, and our memories filled with the magic of Sotano.