All Roads Lead To … Jonno’s Bistro

I like well-kept secrets. Places that no one speaks of but somehow never lack clientele and sweeten the deal with great service, good food and a steady Wi-Fi connection.

I like places not everyone knows about because most days, I dine solo and prefer not to be asked “who are you with?” like a woman can’t munch on bacon without company.

So when my friend Martha tells me weeks ago to check out Jonno’s Bistro, I’m in no rush. I’m convinced that, since no one else is talking about it, it can’t be that great.

Boy, was I wrong.

It’s a Monday morning when I mission all the way across the city to Auas Valley Mall and take the first escalators that catch my eye because the only thing I’ve been told is that Jonno’s is on the first floor.

I’m mentally prepared for a bit of a search but there’s no need because the moment I look up, Jonno’s is sitting big and beautiful right before my eyes.

With bright winter light streaming in from big windows and décor that screams ‘sexy loft apartment vibes’ just the way I like it, the place is exactly my cup of tea. So, naturally, I make a beeline for the couches in the corner.

A few minutes later, a waitress comes over and hands me a tacky green menu that seems almost out of place in such a chic space.

Not one to judge the menu before I’ve had the food, I slide my eyes over it and before I can say “favourite new spot”, seven words catch my eye and make my heart sing.

Full English Fry Up – Build Your Own.

Not only do they serve breakfast all day (like the best kind of places do), but they allow you to customise your meal just the way you like it.

As I plan the breakfast of a lifetime, I order hot chocolate. It goes for N$18 and arrives delectable and delightful with mini marshmallows floating on top.

With the option to have my pick of bacon, pork or beef sausage, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms with onions, baked or beef pinto beans, hash brown potatoes and eggs, I go for the beef sausage along with everything but the mushrooms and beans.

Being me, I order a side of avo to go with it.

It takes a little while but soon, the waitress slides over a plate of breakfasty goodness and aside from them being a little skimpy on the tomatoes, it goes down a treat.

Mid-munch, I’m tempted to try out the juice and smoothie bar, so I order the yogurt, chocolate, banana and espresso smoothie, which goes for N$28.50. As much as I want to be enthralled by it, I can’t say I’m a fan.

Menus, tomatoes and smoothie aside, the place is great.

And as I walk out back into the winter chill, I can’t help but wonder… Where has Jonno’s been all my life?

– cindy@namibian.com.na; @SugaryOblivion on Twitter

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