Where:
Big Easy, Hilton Hotel,
12-14 Walnut Road, Durban
Call:
031 336 8166
Open:
11am-11pm, daily
As a birthday treat, my wife booked for Durban’s Ernie Els restaurant for a Saturday evening. While waiting for friends we ordered a bottle of sparkling water (R45) and a Millers beer (R35).
The ambiance is relaxed but smart. While we were considering the menu, our waitron delivered lovely cornbread and sweet chilli butter.
Our starters included a simple but tasty cherry tomato bruschetta (R62), a satisfying pork belly with bacon (R72), an excellent smoked haddock and chorizo pot (R75) and I had superb oxtail and marrow fritters (R78), the chef’s speciality and a favourite.
The wine list prices are eye-wateringly expensive, so we thought we had ordered the Ernie Els Cabernet Sauvignon, which on the menu was priced at R170. To my horror, when I checked the bill at home, the price we paid was R355. I kicked myself for not checking the bill more carefully at the restaurant.
On the night we found it a pleasant wine – at that price it had to be.
Our mains included a very enjoyable chicken breast with roast veggies (R145) with a smoked garlic and Parmesan sauce (R30), a satisfying masala chicken salad (R78) and mildly-curried Midlands butter duck (R190) that won high praise, while I had a 200g sirloin, which was nicely rare, with French fries (R155) and a delicious gorgonzola cheese sauce (R30). The steak was done to my taste and the fries were good.
We all enjoyed our starters and main courses, which were substantial, and no one had room for desserts. We settled for cappuccinos (R26).
While we were chatting our waitron presented us with a decadent chocolate mousse topped with bits of strawberries and nuts. It was a nice gesture and we all shared this delicious dessert.
It was a fun evening with friends and good food.
Next time we go, I will make sure I check the bill properly.
Ratings
(out of five)
Food 4
Service 4
Ambience 4