Local Flavourite Expands to Onrus
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Petri Hendriksz keeps infusing his creative flair for flavour in Hermanus, first in family-owned Fusion Restaurant, branching out to his own Pear Tree Bistro, Char'd Grill & Wine Bar, and now Milk on the Beach and Waffle Shack. Adding to the food soul of Greater Hermanus, Petri created a food haven closer to home for the lucky folks of Onrus, Vermont - and Sandbaai, just a short stroll along the coastal path.
Milk on the Beach, formerly Milkwood, is situated in a picturesque spot, overlooking the lagoon and Onrus Beach. When asked about the new name, Petri said he wished to retain the landmark status of Milkwood, but also change it up to accompany the completely revamped menu and fabulous new look - thanks to Donnovan Kennedy from Custom Project Solutions. The décor is trendy, creating a new atmosphere to match the exciting new cuisine.
Expect classics with a flavour twist (as Petri does): beer battered hake with turmeric & ginger tartare, hand pressed beef burgers with sundried tomato pureé & wasabi mayo, and flavoursome 5-week-matured steak and mushroom. Toasted wraps with yoghurt and sumac marinated chicken & bacon, or creamed feta with roasted peppers, tomato, avo, halloumi & rocket; buddha bowls with seared tuna, ginger, edamame, sesame & avo; as well as a kiddies menu tailored to simpler pleasures. Also expect some unusual culinary delights, such as their house speciality handrolls with sesame fried calamari, avo & wasabi mayo; soy dressed salmon with mango & peppadew; or sundried tomato, quinoa, pickled carrot & avo. The fresh and flavourful menu includes vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
They're Fido-friendly - pet parents will love the colourful dog paintings, by local talent Tertius van Dyk. A precious pet portrait of Cindy, Petri's bulldog, adorns the wall in the Waffle Shack. In keeping with the pet-friendly vibe of Milkwood, voted as The Cape's Best Pet Friendly Eatery in the 2021 KFM Best of the Cape Awards, the doggo art is coupled with water bowls for refreshment after a hard day's fetch - also keep an eye out for cheeky captions here and there, "Humans to be kept on leash at all times".
On what inspired him to start a waffle bar, instead of the usual beach-locale cocktail bar, Petri said he opted for something family-friendly, as this is a prime family spot. The happy and funky Waffle Shack has a counter display of toppings to indulge every palate, from jelly tots, candied chocolate peanuts and jelly beans for the kids who love all things bright and colourful; to pretzels, caramel popcorn, crushed oreo crumbles and kitkat, or lovely tart and sweet cheesecake with blueberries - they'll be surprising patrons with new toppings for the Easter Weekend. For something unique, and very delectable, try their waffle croissants. The Waffle Shack even does a gluten-free waffle, which is simply scrumptious with the same amount of crunch on the outside and gluten-like soft centre - you could fool most folks that these were made from wheat. If savoury is what you're really after, have a go at loaded fries or loaded hotdogs, with breakfast or lunch varieties. On asking staff what seems to be the biggest hit, they say everything is popular, proving the menu choice is spot-on.
But who is the man behind the restaurant? Petri loved cooking from a young age and his dad inspired him to pursue this passion. After honing his culinary skills at the International Hotel School in Pretoria, he ventured out to the UK. On his return home, he became involved in the family business, Fusion Restaurant. From there he expanded and now successfully runs three of his own restaurants - all offering different culinary experiences. His commitment to culinary excellence is endless - getting in touch with one of South Africa's top chefs, Michael Broughton, who provided some recent input in each of Petri's restaurants. Petri plans to keep things fresh with new items on every menu.
How does the man appear to be in three places at the same time? On asking how he manages to run three restaurants simultaneously, Petri says you need to keep your finger on it, and that it takes the right staff to be successful. He mentions his head chefs at each restaurant, his trusted managers, and, from personal experience, I can vouch for the efficient and super friendly waiting staff.
Pop in for a visit at Milk on the Beach, or grab a waffle or hotdog 'to go' at the Waffle Shack this coastal Easter Weekend. They've got the good food, the views, and the vibes. Also, to keep your keys safe while you go for a dip - they've got free safes to store them.
Holiday vibes every day in Hermanus.
Author: Ruche ten Have
