The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has lots of restaurants, but not all of them are particularly noteworthy. Belthazar, however, is a refreshing change. Located in the Victoria Wharf, the interior design is super modern sleek with low lights and glass and metal. There is also a romantically lit terrace with Table Bay views for al fresco dining when the weather is nice (book ahead).

Calling itself the “largest wine bar in the world,” the list at Belthazar includes some 600 different fine wines and sought-after rare vintages, as well as around 250 local wines by the glass. The bartenders and servers here double as sommeliers and are really knowledgeable about the wine they serve. My friend and I were impressed when we weren’t up-sold too much when asking for a nice glass of Merlot (they offered a mid-range glass, rather than the most expensive in the house). Beyond wine, Belthazar also has an impressive single malt, whiskey, cognac and brandy list.

From a food perspective, Belthazar is also tasty. The menu, while focusing on steak and South African flavors, is creative and offers options for those not in the mood for red meat (but little for vegetarians). We started with the oysters, which were fresh and delicious. My friend also had an order of biltong (her favorite food group), which she said was just the right mix of chewiness and flavor. For mains, vegetarians are pretty limited to the selection of salads. But those who like seafood have a choice of five different fish options, most served in a lemon butter sauce of some variation. There is also a page of calamari, shellfish and seafood platter choices in a number of flavors that are either grilled or fried. For meat you can choose from traditional steaks or game meat, including ostrich and crocodile and the “game of the day.”