Cool Spaces: The Bailey on Cape Town’s Bree Street

WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS Mickey Hoyle, Sam Linsell

Headed by Liam and Jan Tomlin, The Bailey on Bree is a multi-level restaurant space set in a historic building in the heart of Cape Town.

Spanning over three storeys, the space offers a ground-floor cafe, patisserie and champagne bar, a second-floor Brasserie and The Old Bailey Whiskey Bar on the top floor.

Inspired by the concept of all-day cafes and restaurants in Europe, the team set to create spaces that exude a sense of style and offers state-of-the-art food, drinks and atmosphere. 

The grand old building dating back to 1862, has textured walls, high ceilings, striking staircases and classic lines. Floor-to-ceiling windows add encompassing light. Dramatic marble-topped counters and artwork by local artists adorning the walls add extra statement features to the already breathtaking space. The Bailey is a permanent base for striking works by the late Paul Du Toit that are exhibited in a private dining room, named in his honour, situated within the Brasserie on the second floor. 

READ MORE: Chef Liam Tomlin’s Higgovale Home

On entering Cafe Bailey on the ground floor, guests are greeted with a gigantic chandelier and a display case filled with artisan delicacies. Cafe Bailey serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and high tea – including champagne and cocktails until 9 pm.

The French-style Brasserie on the second floor offers lunch and dinner seatings in a more formal environment, with traditional menu options and drinks on the menu. The Old Bailey Whiskey Bar and the rooftop terrace is the perfect spot for after-work drinks or a nightcap with an extensive list of premium beverages on offer.

Head Chef Jacques Grové takes the reins in his first appointment as Head Chef. A Silwood graduate (2017), the talented young Grové has been promoted from Senior Sous Chef at Chefs Warehouse Tintswalo Atlantic. He has also notched up experience at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, Foxcroft and La Colombe, and worked internationally as a private chef in Saudi Arabia.

For more information, visit the-bailey.co.za. 

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