Sershen N.
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Great Food & Vibes, But Missing the Basics
Visited Surf Riders Café in South Beach for their wood-fired fish and overall had a good experience. The wait was quite long — over an hour — but the meal was mostly worth it.
The fish was tasty and well-cooked, though not without some issues. There were a few leftover scales, and it didn’t quite deliver on the expected wood-fired flavor. The prawns (which seemed more like shrimp) were de-shelled — I personally would’ve preferred them with shells on for more flavor and texture. That said, the peri peri sauce was excellent and brought the dish together nicely.
My wife had an iced coffee and a Cosmo cocktail — both of which she enjoyed. The pet-friendly environment was a major plus for us. We brought our dogs along and were pleasantly surprised when they were served complimentary treats — ice cream and Digby biscuits. A really thoughtful touch!
The vibe was relaxed and beachy, just what you’d expect from a coastal café. However, a major drawback was the lack of on-site toilets for customers. Being directed to public toilets in the neighboring building felt out of place for an otherwise quality establishment. This could be a deal-breaker for some.
I’m hopeful the new Umhlanga branch maintains the charm and improves where it counts — especially by ensuring basic facilities are available for guests.