‘Thank you for coming all the way from South Africa to South Wimbledon’ was the closing line by the comedian compère of the launch evening for Horse & Groom’s collaboration with Chakalaka South African restaurants. Friday 29 January was the opening night when candlelit tables turned the Horse & Groom pub into a gastro-pub serving food by Chakalaka. Later in the evening, laughter filled the place as four comedy acts took to the stage for a free evening of great entertainment!

A new section has been opened and decorated African style, with characteristically Chakalaka zebra stripes on the walls and reed effects on the ceiling. Canvas images of a lazy lion and an elephants eye up surround you while you dine – all of which you could add to your bill and take home with you!

The atmosphere was a friendly buzz of locals mixed with South Africans who had come to sample the food. Wimbledon is an ideal spot for the specialities of Chakalaka, with Putney and Chiswick being their other two branches. With so many South Africans living around Wimbledon, the Horse & Groom is set to be a SA magnet for those looking for a good steak – beef, kudu or ostrich, as well as many other SA favourites.

The launch night was impressive on the tastebuds – from a juicy flat mushroom topped with goat’s cheese to the characteristic boerewors and chakalaka, followed by amazing steaks for mains. Chargrilled to perfection, each mouthful was utter tenderness and taste.

The bar staff added to the fun with co-ordinated hairstyles and clothes, both of which were aligned to the evening’s African feel – leopard print dresses for the ladies, with Flintstone bubble hairdos.

With regular pool and dart competitions, a monthly comedy night on the cards and now an awesome menu – Horse and Groom is set to become a home away from home to South Africans in SW London.