As the event was ‘sports orientated’, Karisa was hoping to molest run into Ryk Neethling, but we didn’t spot all that many sportsmen. In light of this, we decided to be our own athletic champions. Thus Karisa (who’s Russian accent is utterly kak) assumed the personality of Svletlana von Sweatstrapp (ribbon dancer extraordinaire), Darren became ‘Chet’ (a Red Bull Extreme pilot), Mark was Jean-Luc van der Merwe (the Ryk Neethingling of synchronized swimming) and I was Dorienne van Dooswyn (a clay pigeon-shooting champ like my grandpa).

Upon arrival, we were greeted by this dude:

It was also nice to see Renay Lotz and Kate Cloete (ex-Elizabeth Arden girls/kiff chicks) at the door. They’re now running Brand Bakery, the PR co that helped organise the bash and, as it turns out, Renay’s hubby is one of Slainte’s co-owners.  

I’ll be honest and tell you, when I heard that the pub was going to be Irish-inspired, I expected something that would look like a Mike’s Kitchen with a bit of an Irish-twist. Think four-leaf clover coasters… leprechauns in top hats… Celtic crosses in the bathroom… However, the spots actually a mod slick-looking affair with great lighting, pops of zexy red and hot, hipster barmen.

Now let me tell you about the food… my little groepie strategically positioned ourselves right by the kitchen door so we could get up close and personal with every single plate; a good move ‘cos the food was absolutely delish! Of everything I got to taste, I most enjoyed the deep-fried prawns, chicken liver pate (served on little spoons with a crust of bread) and, the piece de resistance; wafer thin crispy bruschetta with strawberry slices, gorgonzola and balsamic vinegar reduction. Jissus those babies were good! As someone who knows better than to stuff stinky cheese in their mouth at an event where you’re likely to do lots of air kissing, I just couldn’t stop and can’t wait to go back and have those again.

Something else I liked about Slainte? All the staff we came into contact with were so friendly, patient and willing to go the extra mile to sort you out. Having been a waitress for years, I know how horrid it is to work a big event and have to smile and grin while carrying a plate through a crowd. It’s kinda like being a lone fry tossed into a flock of seagulls in a MacDonald’s parking lot. I could never do it without getting all irritable and pissy, but the Slainte crew are fabulously professional. 

Next time you want to hook up with your mates for ‘wine o’ clock’, pop into Slainte and don’t forget to try the food. And if you see me slumped in the corner all alone please don’t assume that I’m ridiculously drunk and then attempt to feel me up. I’ll just be in a food coma from having eaten a good ten thousand gorgonzola toasties…

Love, love

Leigh