Banana Jam Cafe — Restaurant in Western Cape

Banana Jam seems to be a local go-to and was very busy when we had our end-of-year lunch there. The service was good and we received the necessary attention for a table of fourteen people (although our waitress unfortunately had some serious BO - it was hot- we diplomatically informed the manager to kindly assist their staff with this delicate detail). I ordered a 'Hurricane' cocktail, but it wasn't anything fantastic, and rather tasted like, and had the effect of a watered-down cooldrink. Apparently this cocktail comes with a crushed cocktail umbrella (as a concept for the hurricane) but that was also left out. The cocktail edged on being a mocktail instead, so I wasn't really impressed by that. When we ordered Tacos we were told that they're out of guacamole, but when some people ordered burgers with avocado, they had avocado burgers (OK?). The guacamole arrived soon after our order, so we assumed it was ready-made from Spar (seeing that the lady walked past us with Spar packages). The salsa sauce for the tacos wasn't a sauce at all, but merely chopped-up tomatoes. I found that rather disappointing as it added to the feeling that the food and drink isn't a serious priority, but a quick skimp and rush to get everybody fed. I thoroughly enjoyed their beer, and figured that to be the safest choice when coming here. They also offer WiFi which is a plus. It definitely has a fun and pleasant buzz, so that was great as far as atmosphere goes. I'd recommend Banana Jam for a good beer, but don't expect too much from the cocktails or food. It's fair, but...

What a delightful surprise this little eatery was! We happened to be in 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village close to lunchtime on a weekday, a couple of weeks ago, and decided to pop in there for a beer as it was a heckishly hot day. I have gone past this place quite a few times before, and at a glance, it didn't appeal to me. Neither did the name appeal to me. That day though, it was hot, and it didn't seem a bad idea to have a beer under the trees. The 'outside' section is on the street side of the establishment, but well protected by the big trees and enough umbrellas to provide ample shade. The pretty young blonde lady (I don't remember her name) who attended to us was good. The convivial atmosphere was the decider in us staying for lunch. With ample space between tables, and reggae music playing in the background, and good service, good food, and cold beer, I have to say this restaurant got it right. I wasn't sure if it was just a good day for myself or them, so we went back the next week. Brilliant! They deserve to do well. The first time we had tacos from the starters menu, and the second time we tried their pizzas. I am always wary of ordering pizzas in Cape Town, because they can be absolutely horrible or just perfect. There doesn't seem to be much in-between. Banana Jam makes a perfect pizza! I...

I visited the Banana Jam Café on a Saturday afternoon to meet up with friends who celebrated a Birthday Party there. It was my first visit to that part of Kenilworth but it proved to be uneventful as the GPS in my BMW quickly guided me to right in front of the venue.

On entering you get a warm feeling and an instant urge to party. The crowed seemed to be regulars who were familiar with the setting. The vibrant music was tops and created a real festive atmosphere. We were shown to reserved seats and joined our group. I liked the fact that the waiters were available without making a nuisance of themselves. They waited for an indication if their services were required.

As I said they played soft enjoyable music that did not interfere with the conversations that were had at the tables. This gives the place an immediate positive rating in my book. The menu had all the regular things that one would expect to find in a restaurant and here and there sprung a surprise with innovative dishes. I loved their Cocktails and eventually had four of it. I always judge a barman by how well he mixes my Rock-shandy. This one was perfect and served as a gateway to some other cocktails.

I would definitely visit the Banana Jam Café again, be that for an afternoon of drinks or even a small celebration...