As you step into 91 Bree Street, it's impossible not to feel the buzz of creative energy that has transformed this once familiar space into something truly extraordinary. The brainchild of culinary visionary Liam Tomlin and renowned architect Lawrence Holmes, this new venture in Cape Town’s vibrant CBD is more than just a reimagining; it’s a masterclass in blending art, design, and gastronomy.
Walking through the doors, you're immediately drawn into the ground floor, home to the reinvented Chefs Warehouse & Canteen. The space exudes a moody yet inviting atmosphere, with exposed brickwork that harkens back to the industrial origins of the area. Communal tables are carefully arranged to foster a sense of togetherness, while the soft glow from the walk-in wine cellar casts an almost reverential light over Liam Tomlin’s carefully curated collection. It’s a space that speaks to the heart of urban dining - a perfect blend of casual and refined.
Hermann Niebuhr’s paintings and Paul du Toit’s ceramics aren’t mere decorations; they are an extension of the Tomlins’ personal art collection, adding layers of texture and storytelling to the experience. And just when you think you’ve taken it all in, your eyes land on the Cookbook Library, a colourful testament to the culinary journeys of Tomlin and his partner David Schneider.
Ascending the dramatic steel staircase, you arrive at Merchant Bar & Grill on the first floor - a space that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. The Larder, encased in glass, is a tantalising glimpse into the art of preservation, showcasing house-cured meats and cheeses that promise to elevate any meal. The seating is as varied as the menu itself, ranging from leather banquettes perfect for intimate dinners to cosy lounge areas that invite long, lingering conversations.
And then there’s the chandelier - a playful, almost whimsical creation by Ceramic Matters - that hangs above, catching the light in a way that makes you stop and appreciate the artistry in every corner of this space. It’s these thoughtful details that make Merchant Bar & Grill more than just a place to eat; it’s a place to be.
Finally, you reach the pinnacle - Room 91, a private events space that offers a vantage point over Bree Street and beyond. The design here is elegant yet versatile, ready to host anything from a sophisticated cocktail party to a wedding reception or an intimate dinner. The balcony, with its sweeping views of Cape Town, feels like the city’s best-kept secret.
But perhaps the most striking feature of 91 Bree Street is the central staircase, which not only connects these distinct spaces but also serves as a visual anchor for the entire building. The atrium it creates is a light-filled marvel, offering glimpses of the various levels and the interplay between them. Standing at the base of this staircase, you can’t help but feel that you’re in the heart of something special.
91 Bree Street is a redefinition of what it means to experience Cape Town. With its dynamic range of spaces, each offering its own unique vibe, it’s a destination that invites you to return time and again, each visit revealing a new part of its carefully crafted personality.
