Imagine sinking into a plush chair that reminded me of my child hood, just swinging while I waited for the service, soft music playing, with the aroma of delicious food filling the air. That was my first impression of Levin Lifestyle Lounge. This spot aims to be more than just a restaurant. It promises an experience. I keep meeting a version of me I never met before and I love it, a strong well built confident man, and Levin Lifestyle Lounge and Restaurant exudes such a charisma and I dare you to try it. A contemporary adult setting, that gives a contrast of the “now” youthful experience, located at one of Johannesburg’s elite and premium locations, the Design District in Rosebank, an area that is infamous for it’s vibrant night life of champagne, clubbing and any expensive bottle that you can imagine.
First Impressions and Ambiance
Walking into this big and long walk way into the restaurant you are greeted by a whole stand alone Bar, with a display of an array of wines that appetise your your drinking edges, and all you imagine is a glass of Chardonnay Shiraz or Savougnon Blanc. It is a place where you can let your guard down, a haven to experience the best of what Johannesburg’s culinary experience can entail.
Initial Arrival and Seating
Walking in, I was met with a smile. The staff were quick to offer me a seat. I ended up at a cozy table near this fountain that makes me fall in love again. The welcome made me feel good.
Decor and Atmosphere Details
The decor struck me as modern yet comfortable. Soft lighting created a relaxing mood. The music was chilled, just loud enough to hear it. It all worked together. The “Lifestyle Lounge” concept seemed to fit.
Having dinner under this stars, and met by this fountain that makes a little watery noise at the back, it gives me a mix of urban chic meeting an outdoor experience in the wilds, the sounds of the waterfalls brought right here into the concrete jungle. Levin Lifestyle Lounge and Restaurant serves as a beacon of hope in the revival of the city’s life, and restauranting experiences for diners and those that love a small outing for a quick snap on Instagram.
Everything looked spotless. Tables shined. The floors are clean, with a luxurious finish of soft wood and the backdrop of every bottle of wine that you can imagine just gave me life, I have found home again. Even the restrooms are well-kept, there is nothing more frustrating as patrons sitting in a restaurant and the bathrooms do not live up to scratch. It makes you wonder how the kitchen might be like, Levin Lifestyle Lounge and Restaurant set the tone and mastered the art of cleanliness, making it the go to spot for a perfect selfie and a solo date.
The Prawn Appetizer: A Seafood Starter
First up: the charcoal prawns. Were they a hit or a miss?
If you are into something new and you love exploring new things, try this charcoal prawn starter, it is one of the Restaurant’s pride and joy, a serve of unique blends that gives a total new experience, offering you an imagination of how limitless can a seafood dish go, from just being seared to dipped fried with charcoal coating. It is indeed an experience and I dare you to give it a try on your next visit.
Plating and Visual Appeal
The prawns came out beautifully arranged. They were plump and ofcause charcoal grilled waiting on you to taste this chef’s dream, sitting on a bed of greens. The presentation made my mouth water. It was a feast for the eyes. I was really excited to have to taste them, and I am glad I did and now I have learnt of the creativity and art that goes into good prepping.
Taste and Texture Analysis
The taste was amazing! The prawns had a slight sweetness. They were cooked just right. The texture was perfect. Each bite was a delight.
Sauce and Accompaniments
A tangy dipping sauce came with the prawns. It added a nice zing. Slices of Avocado were laid as the bedding to the three prawns, which I used to add brightness and sizzle into the taste. The sauce complemented the prawns perfectly.
The Lamb Shank Main Course: A Meat Lover’s Dream?
On to the main event. Could the lamb shank live up to the prawns?
Presentation and Serving Size
The lamb shank arrived looking impressive. It was a large portion. It sat on a bed of mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. You got your money’s worth.
Tenderness and Flavor Profile
The lamb was fall-off-the-bone tender. It had a rich, savory flavor. The seasoning was spot-on. I enjoyed every bite. It tasted amazing.
Side Dishes and Complementary Flavors
The mashed potatoes were creamy. The roasted vegetables were cooked until tender. These sides added to the meal. They enhanced the lamb’s flavor.
Chardonnay Pairing: Enhancing the Meal
Wine can make or break a meal. Did the Chardonnay work?
I chose a crisp Chardonnay. It had notes of apple and citrus. It was light and refreshing. It complemented the food nicely.
Pairing with Prawns
The Chardonnay cut through the richness of the prawns. It cleansed the palate. This made the prawns even more enjoyable. They were a good match.
Pairing with Lamb Shank
The wine also paired well with the lamb. It balanced the savory flavors. The Chardonnay added a touch of acidity. It made the meal complete.
Service and Overall Experience
Good service is key to a great experience. How did Levin Lifestyle Lounge do?
Let us give this award to the Courage, a customer service champion on the floor who is very well clued up on restaurant lifestyle experience and food, she made my stay at the restaurant very pleasant and she is the girl!
The staff were attentive without being annoying. They knew the menu well. They answered all my questions.
The food came out in a timely manner. I didn’t feel rushed. The pacing was just right.
Levin Lifestyle Lounge offers a solid dining experience. The prawns were a standout as a newly found experience, The lamb shank didn’t disappoint. The Chardonnay was a nice touch. Overall, it’s worth checking out if you are looking for a great meal. I recommend Levin Lifestyle Lounge for a special night out.
