There is something timeless about the combination of good food, well crafted cocktails and a soundtrack filled with 90s R&B classics.
Image: Lutho Pasiya
There is something comforting about hearing a classic R&B track while enjoying a good meal and a well-made drink.
That combination sits at the heart of The Studio RnB Cafe in Umhlanga, a music inspired dining spot that leans heavily into nostalgia, food and social experiences.
From the moment you walk in, it is clear that music is part of the venue's identity.
The soundtrack moves between 1990s R&B and soul, creating an atmosphere that feels relaxed and familiar without overpowering conversations at the table.
The venue has also teamed up with The Singleton to introduce diners to whisky pairings and cocktails designed to complement the experience.
It is not presented as a whisky masterclass or a formal tasting. Instead, the focus is on discovering how whisky can fit naturally into a night out with friends, good food and great music.
One of the standout drinks of the evening was The Singleton Whisky Sour.
Image: Lutho Pasiya
I started with two cocktails from the menu, the Whisky Sour and the Oak and Emotion.
The Whisky Sour delivered exactly what you would want from the classic drink.It was refreshing, balanced and easy to sip.
The Oak and Emotion offered something slightly richer and more layered while still remaining approachable.
Other cocktail options include the Old Fashioned and the New York Sour, all priced at R90 per cocktail.
The Singleton's fruit-forward profile comes through clearly in the cocktails. Notes of honey, vanilla and cooked apples add depth without becoming overwhelming, making it a whisky that works particularly well in mixed drinks.
The Singleton's Oak and Emotion cocktail offered a richer and more layered drinking experience.
Image: Lutho Pasiya
Of course, a venue cannot survive on drinks alone.
The cafe offers a broad menu that ranges from seafood and wings to pizzas, burgers and steaks. For my meal, I chose the 350g seared rib eye steak served with creamy mushroom sauce and portobello mushrooms topped with parmesan shavings.
The seared rib eye steak was one of the highlights of the meal. Cooked as requested, it was tender, juicy and full of flavour.
Image: Lutho Pasiya
The steak arrived cooked as requested and delivered on flavour. The mushroom sauce added richness without taking attention away from the meat, while the mushrooms and parmesan provided a welcome extra layer to the dish.
What impressed me most was how cohesive the overall experience felt. Nothing seemed forced. The music, food and drinks worked together naturally, creating an environment where guests are encouraged to stay a little longer than planned.
The partnership between the two brands feels like a good match. One brings the drinks, the other provides the atmosphere and together they create an experience that is enjoyable without trying too hard.
If you enjoy classic R&B, hearty food and whisky cocktails with friends, the cafe is worth a visit.