Top Class Venue - Cafe la Plage is coming to the Pearls

David really wanted to be a musician, much to his Father's dismay, and they often disagreed about his choices. David secretly sold ice-creams at soccer games so he could save up to buy a keyboard. Music was in his blood. Cafe del Mar was his dream and inspiration. David's spark of originality could not be swayed , music and food were always linked in his mind and he chose the latter to begin his path to greater opportunities.

After a successful restaurant career, working for Hard Rock Cafe International, David left for South Africa and arrived just before the September 11 event. He then decided to stay in South Africa and continue his dream in the restaurant and entertainment industry. In Johannesburg he proved himself as a leading creative chef and always imagined himself being a chef/owner of a reputable, groundbreaking and top class restaurant. His passion and vision lead him to Umhlanga where he partnered with a like-minded individual to launch and open Plaka at Gateway.

The overnight success of Plaka was attributed to a few initiatives but the core strength was David's menu. Eventually David was able to buy out his partner and become the chef/owner of a reputable, groundbreaking and top class venue.

David changed the name to Barrio, keeping the Mediterranean Greek influence. Barrio was his baby, new energy, new vision, however a constant yearning for his dream of a place where music and food are created and combined never left him.

Cafe la Plage was born. A 1 million Dollar Investment, his very own Music Brand in an up market restaurant with a French bakery and boutique Butchery, a 1000 square meter property at the hottest spot in Umhlanga, the new Pearls Umhlanga. This is the next level, going international and competing with Cafe del Mar.

To begin at the right place - David approached various Music Schools to help audition his future staff. Yes, all Cafe la Plage waiters, waitresses, Bartenders and contingency staff will be aspiring musicians and the like, with the chance to perform at the venue, a possible recording deal, appear in the upcoming Cafe la Plage live shows and be part of the success.

The art of surrounding his guests with only entertainers - is possibly the most engaging idea that has emerged on the scene in SA. Dave Manal, setting the pace and taking us to places we have only dreamed of.

Watch this space.