Ridge foodie fans looking for a new space in which to indulge their passion could do far worse than head into Durbs to try out the elegant JAM restaurant in Morningside.
Conveniently situated on the corner of Avondale and Sandile Thusi (formerly Argyle) roads, JAM is part of the Quarters offering from the dynamic Signature Life group.
Quarters on Avondale came into being when the owners combined three rather run down properties into one iconic Edwardian hotel with wrap-around verandas, which provide a fantastic space in which to while away a few hours on a balmy summer’s evening while sampling some of hot shot chef Claudie Dromgool’s offering’s.
When we went for dinner on a hot summer’s night recently we made an immediate break for the veranda area, settling into a table for two with, it must be said, the most generous sized table and comfy chairs I’ve enjoyed in a long while. The sense of space and comfort is a very enjoyable approach given Durban’s sticky summer weather.
Décor is uber chic with luxurious silver, black and white styling, the staff are immaculately turned out and very friendly. JAM boasts a romantic ambience on an elegant terrace, where classic decor incorporates quirky pieces which add considerable interest.
For starters we tucked into a seared beef and gorgonzola salad – salad leaves, mixed nut brittle and vinigarette, plus crispy duck cappeletti (a hat-shaped version of tortellini) with plum sauce. The beef salad was certainly all it was made out to be, while the duck was simply delicious.
For mains we went the healthy route (relatively speaking), opting for chicken and prawn curry with rice and roti, plus grilled linefish, minted pea puree, potato croquet and wholegrain mustard sauce. The currie was light and flavourful while the linefish (dorado) was brought to life with an excellent sauce.
Decadent
With bulging tummies we opted to share a dessert and opted for the mocha swirl cheesecake . . . deliciously decadent and home baked, according to my rather knowledgeable partner.
The food got a major thumbs up and we enjoyed the friendly and efficient yet unstuffy service, but one thing’s for sure, the elegant yet comfortable ambience of JAM was definitely the winner on the night.
JAM restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday and breakfast and lunch on Sundays. The restaurant is also available for private functions, weddings and corporate product launches if the whole restaurant and terrace is reserved. In addition to its stunning veranda area mentioned earlier, there is plenty space for dining indoors (check out the beautiful dark wood tables) for those who prefer that option or when the winter turns a little chilly.
A swanky cocktail bar is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing beverage before your seating, or indulge in a post-dinner tipple. – Ridge Reporter