What started in a kitchen in Melville in 2007 soon evolved into the epitome of decadence in Parktown North. Moemas Patisserie and Food Shop is a safe haven for those with a sweet tooth and its custom creations leap off the plate as if they were all created for the world famous François Payard’s Tumblr page.
According to founders Danielle (who studied at the Leith’s School of Food and Wine in London) and Mike (a natural musician), Moemas is about 'joy, beauty, quality and all the things that are important to us – like good people, good, fresh food, cakes and pastries'.
The two met while Danielle was studying in London eight years ago and since then their passion for each other has grown with the creation of each and every shortcrust pastry. What makes Moemas so interesting and unique is the fact that not only do they bake and create some of the best pastries and cakes in Gauteng but they also serve steak that will melt any meat lover’s heart - talk about satisfying every palate!
The café specialises in breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner and has become a popular Valentine’s Day celebration spot and a romantic venue for those who've caught the love bug. It’s safe to say that there is love in the kitchen at Moemas, because otherwise there wouldn’t be any taste in the food, right?
A sure winner on Moemas’ set menu would be the pork, apple, onion and sage sausage roll which is on par with a sausage I had while staying in Reading in the UK a few years back - it had haunted me, until now. Another go-to would be the shredded free-range roasted chicken served with two slices of sourdough bread, whole grain mustard, mayonnaise and spring onion topped with green salad – it's to die for!
Apart from the café side, the majority of Moemas’ revenue comes from catering for anything from engagement parties to weddings and everything in between. On top of that, the food shop also hosts patisserie and cake baking courses where one can learn how to bake a wedding cake that would leave any bride blushing or to create palm-sized macaroons that would make any sour face smile.
It’s safe to say that you should pay Moemas a visit as soon as you can! You’ll be back for more before you know it.
By Shawn Greyling