No one can forget the glorious days when Uitsig boasted no less than two of Cape Town’s best fine dining restaurants as well as that beautiful café, Spaanschemat River Café, created by Judy Badenhorst and Graham Isaacson.
Within days of opening The River Café was full every day. Remember the eggs benedict on a potato rosti and the Mediterranean layered crepe cake? A new Cape style food was introduced which included dressings and salads never before experienced in Cape Town. Both Graham and Judy lived by their motto: ‘Beautifully presented, enticingly romantic and deliciously tasty – good food should appeal to the senses.’ And so it did… in every sense. The ‘Çafe’ was the go to place in Cape Town and became the standard of food and service in the industry.
Graham went on to a stint as executive chef at the Mount Nelson Hotel where he introduced his high standards, improving menus and methods and generally leaving his mark on this iconic pink lady.
On to his next venture….putting Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie onto locals and international tourists’ map. The farm became known as ‘Grahamstown’ as he grew his interests from one to five businesses. Remember the camels at Imhoff Farm? Behind it was a food treasure trove. From Blue Water Café to Free Range Farm shop and coffee shop. Imhoff became a favourite destination for families many who ventured out from far to spend the day on this beautiful farm.
Having created his magic on the farm for some years Graham sold up to take a short break. But never to be idle for a day he found a new project to start. Lime Tree Café in Bergvliet was born and became an instant success.
Farm life had an appeal so he found a delightful premise on Waterford Farm in Diep River. Graham sold Lime Tree Café and almost immediately set his mind to creating Quince Restaurant and Deli which, despite covid, almost immediately became a household name in the south. Today regulars frequent its charming characterful old house and outdoor covered terrace. Quince attracts customers from far and wide enjoying an inventive menu and choosing from Graham’s farm made delicacies in the deli to take home.
His moto from the River Café’s days still applies: ‘Beautifully presented, enticingly aromatic and deliciously tasty – good food should appeal to the senses’.
Massinger Road, Dieprivier, South Africa
021 569 0179
info@quince.co.za
