Papa Pata is that popular melodic 1967 song by Mama Africa, Miriam Makeba. Listening to it will get you dancing or at least tapping your feet as you move your hands to the soft tempo of the track.
The signature song by South Africa’s civil activist, inspired a restaurant along the Maboneng Precinct, 286 Fox Street, the vibrant East side of downtown Johannesburg.
There, all branding and outlook is (about) Pata Pata and the woman behind the hit song. It is largely rustic decor that visually takes you back to the 1960s when photographs were in black and white.
Right above the bar counter is a noticeable portrait of a smiley Makeba in her youth. Her image shares space with old clocks, humorous phrases on board…one reads, “If you’re still standing, you need another beer.”
Another one, “Forget the dog, beware of the kids!”. The bar area has a typewriter, an old pot bellied man, an African curvy belle like they were in the olden days- short natural hair, big earrings, necklace, wristbands and holding out a pot.
Besides a feast for the eyes, the kitchen offerings were something worth your indulgence. For a Wednesday midmorning culinary treat, I settled for lamb which came in teasing gold with a greasy top, fresh salads and fries.
The menu had options to wash down the hot and tasty meal: chilled or warm beer, soda, juice, water et cetera. Anytime is my tea time so I chose to have another hot offering which was served well spiced.
And while I sliced my teeth in the tender lamb meat, my eyes roused for more in a space that’s artistically decorated. Pata Pata is the place to go for South African cuisine, bar offerings and live music. The waiters and waitresses are attentive and polite.
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