Octopus' Garden in St. James, Cape Town, South Africa | Restaurant

As whimsical as the song after which it was named. Octopus' Garden Restaurant, Wine and Coffee Bar, at the St. James railway station is the home of colourful dining on the Peninsula.
Walking through the door the first impression is one of busy, bright primary colours and lots of things happening. The decor is an eclectic mix of sea-shells, suspended stuffed fish, bold paintings, colourful light-shades and dark wooden furniture which, incredibly, all hang together in an inviting friendly and endearing whole that is as refreshing as it is unique.
Created and run by owner Kitty... the Restaurant and its decor says much about the warm an vivacious personality of the owner... assisted by Brin, who is as close to being the perfect waiter you are ever likely to meet. Easy-going Brin is cool, calm, and collected and will advise you about the menu and wines in a confident but understated way. He looks after guests without hovering and without ever leaving you wondering where he is.
So much effort has gone into the decor and the attention to detail is as obvious as it is entertaining. It is no surprise then to find that the food is excellent and the attention to detail extends to the menu, and the preparation and presentation of the food.
Written by Sean Houghton of the Full Circle magazine.