I have been a big fan of Chingadas Mexican Cantina in Port Elizabeth for many years. In fact, I’ve probably spent more time there than my waistline would care to admit. The food, the vibe and the atmosphere combine to create the perfect outing, whether your goal is to eat, socialise or, ideally, do a healthy amount of both.
So, when I heard that the team from Port Elizabeth were opening another Chingadas in Cape Town, I immediately added it to my list of must-do experiences when visiting the Mother City.
Recently, during a business trip to Cape Town, accompanied by my mate Art, another Chingadas enthusiast and tequila connoisseur, we finally got the chance to visit. Together with a few friends, we spent what can only be described as a fantastic evening at “Chings.”
And yes, if a restaurant has earned itself a term of endearment like “Chings,” you know it is deeply loved by many and a clear sign that is worth a visit.
What to expect at Chings
I was staying at what has now become my favourite place to stay in the City Bowl: NOAH House in Tamboerskloof. Conveniently, it was just a short walk from Chings. On my stroll there, I passed at least a dozen other eateries. Most looked to be operating at barely 20% occupancy, it was mid-winter and a Tuesday night after all.
However, Chings was packed and, thankfully, we had made a reservation.
That was the second indicator that this was going to be a very special restaurant.
I settled into a table near the bar, Art’s preferred habitat, and before long he and our friends joined us. What followed was a serious and highly scientific exploration of the tequila menu, with knowledgeable explanations from the barman, accompanied by a smorgasbord of Chings’ famous tapas.
One of the first things we noticed was that the Cape Town menu differs slightly from its Port Elizabeth counterpart. We also observed that the Cape Town Chings feels fresher, more stylish and perhaps a touch more sophisticated. Yet somehow, it has retained exactly the same happy, energetic vibe that makes the Port Elizabeth original so special.
The tapas were exceptional. My personal favourite? The Avocado Fries. Crispy, creamy and utterly addictive.
Art would undoubtedly have loved to work his way through the entire tequila menu. However, with a busy work week ahead of us, we reluctantly decided to behave like responsible adults and not turn the evening into a full-blown party.
Tequila Fiesta
The tequila selection itself is impressive, featuring a comprehensive range of Blancos, Añejos and Reposados, along with a decent selection of South Africa’s own agave spirits. For tequila enthusiasts, it’s a little slice of heaven.
The third indicator that Chings is truly something special was its patrons.
Families sharing meals. Work colleagues unwinding after a long day. Groups of friends laughing over margaritas. Party animals getting their evening started. Everywhere you looked there were smiles, conversations and good times unfolding.
There were no empty tables. There were, however, plenty of empty plates.
The restaurant is in an old house whose original owners had no plans to use it as a restaurant but the thick walls, large rooms, small alcoves and, off course, the fresh new additions combine to give Chings the special atmosphere that it has.
Getting back to the menu, I can also wholeheartedly recommend the Barbacoa Taco, absolutely delicious. It paired beautifully with another of Chings’ specialties: the margarita.
In my case, I opted for the El Picoso Panthera, a spicy, smoky margarita that sent my taste buds into a party of their own. It had just enough heat to keep things interesting and enough complexity to keep me ordering another.
With dinner over and our tongues suitably lubricated, the evening evolved into one of those memorable nights filled with fun, fellowship and laughter.
At one point, Art proudly pointed out a photograph of himself on the wall. Apparently, he was the very first person to hold a party at Chings. Fame comes in many forms.
Cape Town is renowned for its culinary delights, and I had several more restaurants on my itinerary, including one of South Africa’s top eateries. Yet as I sit here at the airport waiting for my flight home and reflecting on the week that was, one thing stands out clearly.
Chings was the most fun.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what great dining is all about.
Reservations and visiting
Click here to find out more or to make a reservation: https://www.chingadasct.com/
Find them at : 50 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
Phone: 021 201 0325
Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday 12.00 –23.00
Friday and Saturday 12.00 –24.00
Sunday 12.00 –21.00
Monday Closed
Facebook: @Chingadas Cape Town
Instagram: @chingadas_ct/
For more articles like this click here.
If you enjoyed this website then check out our other sites: Wedding and Function, Kids Connection, Thirsty Traveler, Boat Trips for Africa, Bargain Buys, Business Link.
Need help with your online marketing then visit Agency One.
