Food heaven at Cielo
Great news for lovers of beautiful, flavourful, good food -- a little bit of food heaven is nestling in Benoni, at Cielo, at the recently revamped Lakes Hotel and Conference Centre.
When asked how he described Cielo restaurant/lounge and bar, manager George Stavrou said: “Casual and friendly” … he didn’t argue when I added “classy”.
George’s long term experience in the restaurant business is apparent in his attention to detail.
All our food was artistically prepared, wonderfully tasty and a dream to eat and savour … thanks chef Chris Christians.
We chose starters of deboned chicken thighs with green beans, and mussels in white wine.
The deboned chicken thighs in a peanut butter sauce with sauteed green beans were melt-in-the-mouth tender and moreish … mmmm.
My guest’s steamed, aromatic mussels, infused with white wine, aromatic herbs and feta were also declared a winner.
Also calling were fritto misto de mare, vegetable stack (brinjals!) or classic lump crab cakes.
Lunch mains feature such delights as salads; my guest opted for the balsamic lamb salad (with rocket greens, boccioni cheese, grilled red and yellow peppers, kalamata olives, balsamic dressing and toasted bruschetta).
And if all the sandwiches were as eye-catching and stylishly designed as the stacked chicken club masterpiece which was delivered aloft to a neighbouring table, then that might be my selection next time, or a burger?
Also on the menu were tempting pasta and risotto dishes.
I couldn’t resist the pan-seared Norwegian salmon — sesame-crusted salmon, with fresh mint and tomato salsa, and aromatic couscous accompanied by a choice of side dishes (mine was steamed crisp vegetables, or mashed potato, French fries, a side salad or rice).
It was to die for, and I managed to take home a treat for my Saturday lunch.
Even though we shouldn’t have, we asked about desserts.
The desserts of the day were the wonderfully crafted chocolate mousse and apple crumble which hit the spot to finish a very enjoyable meal.
The little bit of heaven or sky theme of Cielo is followed through in the sky blue and white decor and, combined with the view over the lake, which is tranquil and distanced from the cars hurrying along the highway, makes it a special place to eat out.
Cielo is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. HG
