Rosebank is fast becoming the culinary epicenter of Joburg and for good reason. With a multitude of new and exciting restaurants to choose from, diners are increasingly discerning and idealistic. Ultimately, this ensures that restaurateurs keep evolving their offering to deliver a consistent flow of excitement and interest to the foodie scene.
The MAMASAMBA team has clearly accepted this challenge with alacrity and gusto. And, for this, we thank them.
From the moment you enter this cosmopolitan eatery, your imagination is transported. Think the bustling streets of Miami with its eclectic mix of Latin American culture, mid-century modern design and cheeky playfulness. In addition, the restaurant’s layout design was done with intention and consideration to the patron’s overall experience. Contrasting hues of pink, green and gold sets the stage for an evening of pure indulgence.Â
We must mention from the start that the menus are slightly confusing to the uninitiated. However, this might have been a purposeful decision to generate the theatrical experience that is unique to MAMASAMBA.
There are two cocktails we could highly recommend you try. The first – Hips Don’t Lie – is a mix of Patrón Reposado tequila, horchata, lime juice, maple syrup and pineapple juice, while the second – Lupita – consists of Bacardi Cuatro, pineapple juice, passionfruit syrup, lime juice and creole bitters. We’re told the Lupita especially is very popular and honestly, these are two of the most delicious and well-presented cocktails we’ve tasted.
MAMASAMBA has also done an exceptional job of interpreting the complexity of Latin American cuisine. In fact, they create exceptional dishes with bold flavour, without detracting focus from the unique and fresh ingredients.
For starters, we recommend the Samba Futumaki, which is a nori and cucumber roll, stuffed with a fried prawn, tuna, salmon and spring onions, topped off with Japanese mayo. If you’ve arrived hungry, we highly suggest visiting the Asado section of the menu. Here you will find a selection of meat, seafood and chicken dishes that have been grilled in a wood and coal fired Josper oven to maximize tenderness and taste. Again, something totally different and unique to the MAMASAMBA experience.
Whether you’re visiting for after-work cocktails and snacks or if you’re celebrating a special event, we guarantee they’ll blow your socks off!
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