News Café Revamp
Jorge Calisto: "There could never be a better time to breathe new life into the bustling destination, and we are holding nothing back in our fresh approach, which will transform the venue into something simply sensational.
MEYERSDAL: We recently managed to get co-owner of the Meyersdal News café Jorge Calisto in one place, and spoke to him about their plans for the complete renovation of the popular restaurant and entertainment venue. According to Jorge, there could never be a better time to breathe new life into the bustling destination, and they are holding nothing back in their fresh approach, which will transform the venue into something simply sensational.
When we went into more detail about the physical face-lift of the store, we were delighted to hear that a great deal of emphasis and attention is being put into the new look and feel of the restrooms. They will be completely refreshed with clean, cutting edge design and an inviting, modern spacious feel that offers an abundance of open, natural light and ventilation.
The patios will also receive their fair share of all the effort and are also being completely revamped. The outside area will be beautifully remodelled and will cascade around the venue with a flowing and open feel, with plenty of fresh greenery and ample open-air refreshment, creating the perfect setting for sun-downers, laughs and relaxation – there’s really no better way to ease into the evening or to unwind before the weekend, sipping cocktails in the sunset.
The interior design will be revitalised as well, giving rise to a more world class, European-chic ambiance. Inspired by his recent trip to Portugal, Jorge has gone with more of a Mediterranean style, with modern and elegant finishes that offer sophisticated feel. The open, sweeping interior exudes a luxurious appeal and enhancements such as roomy cubicle couches which will add a warm, relaxing and intimate vibe to the opulent and sumptuous surroundings. The bar itself, also to be completely renewed, will bring a funky fusion into the mix and will complement the lavish look with its own flavour and flair.
Other than the physical refashioning, what other improvements might we look forward to? First off, with free, unlimited Wi-Fi access and plug points throughout the venue, the new café will facilitate an unrivalled convenience for professional business lunches and meetings, in an up-market and affluently set location. For the day time trade, there are plans for a safe and secure children’s area in the near future, both smoking and non-smoking areas will be accommodated for, and we’re told that a cigar and cocktail lounge may also be on the cards.
One of the main attractions, Jorge feels, is that for the first time ever, residents of the South will finally have an exquisitely, refined and classy destination that’s worth getting dressed up for, and after 18:00, the dress code will be strictly smart-casual to managers discretion, and IDs may be requested upon arrival. Now this sounds like something to get excited about.
The opening launch date is said to be around the end of September to early October, and when we asked owners Jorge and Luca how they felt about it, it was simply plain to see – they are absolutely overflowing with enthusiasm and like two little boys, the passion and excitement we felt from them was tangible.
Jorge and Luca would like to extend their humble gratitude to the public and all their patrons for their continued support over the past seven years. “We feel that all this has been made possible by the people, and this is our way of giving something back.”
Well it’s clear now that patrons can look forward to an absolutely captivating and enthralling experience in both relaxed day time environment, as well as enchanting evening entertainment, so put on your dancing shoes and evening attire ladies and gentlemen, the allure of sultry and sensational style are coming to South side.