{"id":44634,"date":"2026-09-28T14:16:10","date_gmt":"2026-09-28T12:16:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/ballito-umhlanga\/?p=44634"},"modified":"2026-09-28T14:16:10","modified_gmt":"2026-09-28T12:16:10","slug":"the-room-umdloti-why-this-hidden-restaurant-is-worth-discovering","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/ballito-umhlanga\/the-room-umdloti-why-this-hidden-restaurant-is-worth-discovering\/","title":{"rendered":"The Room Umdloti: Why this hidden restaurant is worth discovering"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you know, you know. Tucked away behind a discreet entrance in the basement parking of Marine Walk in Umdloti, The Room feels like you\u2019ve stumbled upon a sophisticated speakeasy. Hidden from the bustle outside, it has an exclusive, tucked-away charm that\u2019s elegant and intriguing.<\/strong><\/p>\n

From the moment you step inside, the outside world disappears, replaced by moody lighting, plush seating and elegant French bistro-inspired interiors that instantly set the scene for a memorable evening.<\/p>\n

We kicked things off with the irresistible rock shrimp \u2013 perfectly crisp tempura-fried morsels paired with a creamy spicy mayo that had us reaching back for \u201cjust one more\u201d. The truffle tortellini was pure comfort food elevated to fine dining, with ricotta, cheddar, toasted pine nuts and a bright hint of lemon balancing the rich truffle flavours beautifully.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a> But the standout starter? The beef tataki. Delicate cured beef topped with fragrant coriander pesto, sweet hoisin dressing, pickled jalape\u00f1os and crispy sweet potato delivered layer upon layer of flavour in every bite.<\/p>\n

The mains continued to impress. The baby chicken arrived with impossibly crispy skin, smoky peri-peri sauce, crunchy smoked almonds and burnt lemon for a citrusy punch. The fish, wrapped in a light, golden vodka batter, was flaky and fresh, perfectly complemented by tangy lime aioli and a spicy ketchup.<\/p>\n