South Africa, Cape Town, August 2010; THE much-anticipated opening of Salt Vodka Bar in Bantry Bay is an exciting extension of the Salt brand, which encompasses Salt Deli (below the bar) and Salt Restaurant & Bar at the Ambassador Hotel. Boasting valet parking, a lounge-style bar, sea-view sundowner terrace, walk-in champagne fridge and an impressive list of premium-brand vodkas sourced from around the world, Salt Vodka Bar encapsulates the seductive appeal of wind-free Bantry Bay, sandwiched between world-famous beaches and dramatic mountain scenery. It’s the ideal choice for sundowners, pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap.

General Manager for the Salt collection, Ruan Olivier, says: ‘This is the first vodka bar in Cape Town, and there is nothing else along the Atlantic seaboard quite like it. The vodka bar perfectly complements the existing Salt brand, offering exceptional quality and choice in exquisitely tasteful surroundings right on the ocean.’

Salt Vodka Bar offers a sophisticated alternative for drinks after work or before heading to a party – with the added appeal of sea views. Ultra-chic finishes, comfortable lounge-style seating and handpicked, designer details, including Bormioli Rocco stemware and crystal ashtrays, enhance the chic ambience. More of a lounge than a bar, the sleek interior in a moody colour palette of black, charcoal and grey was designed by contemporary interiors expert Jon Case of Antoni Associates. ‘A simple floor plan, ample outdoor space, backlit lighting, beautiful finishes and a great view of the ocean all add up to a great bar, and that’s what I believe has been achieved here,’ comments Jon.

An inviting black and silver Portoro marble-clad entrance with a focal point Swarovski crystal chandelier opens up into an intimate space where marble and mirrors have been used to space-enhancing and light-reflecting effect. Adds Jon: ‘The use of mirrors is vital as it creates a sense of depth within a small space.’ Dark timber floors add warmth while classic black leather Barcelona chairs and marble-topped side tables sourced from Okha Interiors add designer appeal. The bar counter, complete with swiveling black oak and stainless steel bar stools, features a custom-designed vodka cooler.

The glamorous space flows seamlessly onto a wraparound terrace furnished with over-scaled, low chairs in sexy platinum and iroko-wood built-in seating with an abundance of silver-grey scatter cushions. This is the perfect vantage point from which to watch the sun sink into the ocean, ice-cold vodka shot or cocktail in hand.

Patrons with discerning palates will appreciate Salt’s extensive list of over 30 premium-brand, international vodkas served ice-cold from the custom-designed vodka cooler. The walk-in champagne fridge with 30 bubblies – half local, half French and all available by the glass – is another talking point.

Installed with a Le Verre du Vin wine-preservation system, the champagne fridge ensures that sparkling and still wines are kept in peak condition once opened, allowing patrons an impressive choice by the glass.

Says manager of Salt Vodka Bar, Alex Kopertowska: ‘I am delighted to share my knowledge and passion about vodka and the fascinating culture surrounding the enjoyment of vodka. Vodka should always be served as cold as possible, either straight up as a shooter, sipped slowly or in a special cocktail. On display are vodkas from Poland, Russia, Finland, Sweden, France and even New Zealand. My favourite brand is Wyborowa, from Poland. It actually means ‘exquisite’ in Polish!’

Salt does bar snacks with a difference. Think designer platters of fresh sushi, a dozen oysters to enjoy with a glass of special Champagne or piles of Beluga caviar to complement a round of icy vodka, all made to order downstairs in the deli. Here, Salt’s executive chef Jacques de Jager oversees an evolving blackboard menu of global favourites, from Eggs Benedict to a spicy Thai chicken wrap.

Explains Jon: ‘In terms of design, the use of timber, marble and LED lighting are the common threads tying the deli and the bar together. Rough timber and raw concrete give the deli a well-worn, relaxed ambience, creating a comfortable envelope. But once you move upstairs to the vodka bar, the surfaces become more polished and the finishes are more refined, adding instant glamour – especially after dark.’

Salt Vodka Bar is open seven days a week from midday until midnight. Call (27) (21) 21 439-7258 or visit www.saltrestaurant.co.za. The Salt collection is a member of Newmark Hotels.

For press assistance contact Ian Manley of Manley Communications on 0861 MANLEY (626 539), email to premierbrands@publicity.co.za, or visit the Press Room of Manley Communications at ww.manleycommunications.co.za.

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