The Twankey is a rare find; a place where flowing champagne, the freshest seafood, elegant décor and sublime jazz tell a glamorous story.
When the Board of Executors decided to erect a statue to reflect their benevolence, they chose the corner of Adderley and Wale Streets, knowing it was an exceptional location.
Today the restored statue still dominates the busy corner, looking up Government Avenue. She’s also given her name, or at least the moniker that Capetonians cheekily bestowed on her nearly 100 years ago, to the champagne and seafood bar below her.
The Twankey celebrates this historic irreverence. A relaxed, sophisticated meeting place, it serves hot and cold seafood in tapas portions from an open-plan show kitchen. The food is fresh, light and healthy and wine or champagne is served by the glass.
Besides its name, another quirk is that it cannot be accessed from the hotel. This, says General Manager, Michael Pownall is intentional.
“The idea is that whether you’re a Capetonian popping in to meet some friends for a drink and a snack or a hotel guest wanting to enjoy a light seafood snack you’ll all have experienced the same walk along at least one of Cape Town’s historic streets.”
As well as seafood tapas, the Twankey incorporates a coffee bar. Local bands often provide evening entertainment.