Khayelitsha hopes to become Cape’s tourism and entertainment hub

Posted by David Henning on 19 January 2022

The Milk Restaurant and Bar which launched in 2018 as a premium lifestyle entertainment boutique and the first three stories upmarket restaurant – bar in a township, is now relaunching to The Milk Restaurant & Champagne Bar after taking a hiatus in 2020 due to the Covid-19 global pandemic.

In recent years Khayelitsha has seen a rise in establishments redefining Khayelitsha as the Cape’s next tourism and entertainment hub with the recent development of The Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa, Rands Cape Town, Spine Road Lifestyle, Ocean Canda and Seek Lounge. These establishments are joining a list of long-standing, well-known establishments such as Kwa Ace and Kefu’s Jazz Bar.

Khayelitsha is one of the largest townships in South Africa, located just outside Cape Town, known for its entrepreneurial spirit, friendly people and diverse culture. The Milk Restaurant & Champagne bar is one of the few places where you can wine and dine, and lounge within the same property or establishment yet on different floors.

In 2018, Jalivane took the risk of opening the restaurant, out of his own pocket and was met with overwhelming success, however, the business immediately faced challenges that caused a strain on its operations.

Spelo Jalivane, Founder of The Milk Restaurant & Champagne Bar.

‘I opened the business too soon. I was in a rush and wanted to get it off the ground, not knowing the challenges I would face with infrastructure. I took for granted the kitchen equipment required and this resulted badly in service delivery. Additionally, I was in financial woes. I had invested every cent in construction, borrowed money from here and there and collectors were chasing me. I was in financial distress. I had to face the music and own up to my mistakes which caught up with me at a later stage. Lockdown saved me because I was drowning, I was going on because I had to and had no intentions of giving up. Now that I look at it that wasn’t healthy. Lockdown forced me to sit and simmer in my reality. It saved me because through it I developed a healthy working business relationship with the two successful brothers and outdoor Mecca Kings’ says Jalivane.

Spelo has patterned up with the Mbeki brothers, Mfundo and Mshayi, who are co-owners of popular eatery Rands Cape Town. The brothers are now part owner of The Milk Restaurant & Champagne bar. Jalivane says he’s very excited and looking forward to this new partnership and reunion. Though the three businessmen have collaborated on other projects before, this one signifies the importance of unity for the sake of developing the community and the township economy.

‘This is a great opportunity to show what we can do when we work together as brothers, helping each other grow in business. There’s a lot we will learn from Spelo and the same from us. This partnership means a lot for the township, it signifies owning the spaces we occupy and where we live. It’s important to do whatever it takes to protect Kasi businesses, ikasi for ikasi’ Mfundo and Mshayi Mbeki.

The relaunch of the Restaurant & Champagne Bar sees the resurrection of 35 employment opportunities, with the majority of employees being from Khayelitsha.

Here’s what visitors and guests can expect.

Ground floor

Previously, the ground floor served as a restaurant and will now be a full-time liquor store with a separate entrance to the restaurant and champagne bar. Offering a variety of drinks from beers, ciders, wines, hard liquor and more, for off-site consumption.

First floor

The restaurant has now moved to the first floor with a primary focus on cuisine, offering semi-fine dining as opposed to its initial fine dining experience. Defined

as the quintessential of Africans’ dining experience, with a luxe offering prepared by culinary experts.

Guests can expect to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner while seated in modern up to date and stylish furniture with velvet influences. Dish offering ranges from Seafood, grills and light meals.

Second Floor (Rooftop)

Our rooftop offers an overview of Khayelitsha’s landscape. Designed with the high-end clientele in mind, who enjoy their premium beverages such as champagne, cognac or whisky. Lounge setting with 4-to-10-seater lounges to accommodate groups.

The Milk Restaurant & Champagne Bar is located on the corner of Makabeni Road and Zantsi Street in Khayelitsha and opens from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 11 pm. For reservations, please contact 081 414 8913

Pictures: Provided by Milk Restaurant

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