Local Hot Spot: El Burro Newlands

WORDS Lindi Brownell Meiring IMAGES Jan Ras

The original El Burro in Green Point has long been a Mexican fare favourite for Capetonians, especially those living in and around the city suburb.

After opening the popular El Burro Taqueria and the Cabrito Tequila Bar, owner Nic Haarhoff decided it was time to design and launch a new space, this time in the Southern Suburbs.

The result: a colourful, modern, light-filled space that rings true to the brand’s well-known Mexican-theme, but in its own, unique way. While elements are similar and recognisably El Burro, Nic wanted to make sure “to avoid the copy paste syndrome,” using different colours and materials throughout the space.

“When we take on venues we always look at the light and get a feel of the place,” says Nic. While the Green Point restaurant celebrates the Day of the Dead in a darker, moodier way, the new El Burro is about vibrancy and the clever use of colour. Think busy, not messy. “With Newlands, we saw great opportunity to really open up the façade with the huge windows we put in,” he says, transforming the restaurant in terms of light and volume.

“I think the look we managed to achieve has a fresh, modern feeling to it with a Mexican cultural influence,” says Nic. “I have had a few people refer to the Newlands branch as Wes Anderson-esque. Think we’ll take it.”

Visit El Burro at 37A Dean Street, Newlands, Cape Town. The restaurant is open from 12pm until 11pm, Monday to Saturday. Contact 021 201 1421 for reservations.