There’s something shocking about a suddenly-empty storefront, especially when it’s an established institution like Mr. Pickwicks Eating House on Long Street. I was dazed and confused when I first spotted the dark windows and locked door on this eatery two months ago. To my delight, and no doubt to the relief of many, Mr. Pickwicks has reappeared not far from its original location with striped tables and vinyl chairs intact.
No doubt every travel guide will scramble to correct directions to this landmark: no longer on Long Street, the shiny new Mr. Pickwicks opened its doors nearby at the corner of Greenmarket Square on Friday, July 5, 2013.
Demolition crews chew away at the familiar face of the former Mr. Pickwick's location on Long Street.
The unfortunate sight of demolition crews working on the well-loved Long Street storefront greeted passersby in early July 2013. I popped in to check out the new location and a bartender mumbled something about a Mexican restaurant making room for itself in the former building. As I surveyed the bright, spacious interior looking out onto Greenmarket Square, he reassured me that Mr. Pickwicks hasn’t lost its trademark vibe. Known for legendary milkshakes and cheap beer, everyone I’ve talked to has their Mr. Pickwicks story. (Just like everyone has their Long Street story: check out ten of our other favourite Long Street restaurants.)
There's plenty of space for great times and good memories inside the new Mr. Pickwick's.
What’s my memory of the old Pickwicks? My first encounter wasn’t anything to write home about – as a recent arrival in South Africa, dutifully following my tourist map to all the key attractions, my first visit involved a rainy Cape Town morning, weak coffee, and a stale croissant. I’ve always been thankful I gave it another shot; subsequent stops at Mr. Pickwicks took full advantage of happy hour specials and a tasty appetizer menu.
Making myself comfortable on the soft vinyl stool at Mr. Pickwicks new bar, I was glad to see familiar favourites on the menu. And I was reassured to discover that the new kitchen can still turn out legendary milkshakes. There are enough seats here for plenty more memorable Mr. Pickwicks moments.
What’s your favourite Mr. Pickwicks memory?
Click here for a map to Greenmarket Square, the new location of Mr. Pickwicks Eating House.
