French Flair Comes to Midrand with New Boules Court

Le Parc Polofields, a restaurant concept by Natasha Sideris, has launched a new boules court in Midrand, offering a unique French-inspired experience. Boules, also known as pétanque, is a popular French game that involves throwing metal balls towards a target. The court was opened with a celebration that included a game of boules, champagne, and French-inspired food. The event was attended by several notable figures, including Nambitha Ben-Mazwi and K Naomi Phakathi.

The boules court at Le Parc Polofields is designed to bring a taste of French culture to the area. The game is played on a patch of dirt, and players aim to throw their metal balls as close to a small target ball called a cochonnet as possible. The court is equipped with picnic baskets that include a bottle of Moët Brut Imperial, a long baguette, and an assortment of spreads and fruits. The baskets are perfect for those who love grazing and want to enjoy a French-inspired snack.

Chris Engelbrecht, the owner of Le Parc Polofields, is a former chartered accountant who found his calling in the restaurant industry. He snapped up Natasha Sideris's first Tashas franchise in Atholl Square back in 2011 and has since expanded his business to include two restaurants nearby and a Tashas in Bryanston. Engelbrecht was on hand to welcome guests to the boules court opening and was seen mingling with attendees.

The event was attended by several notable figures, including Nambitha Ben-Mazwi, who is celebrating 10 years in the entertainment industry. Ben-Mazwi, a UCT business science graduate, has flourished in the acting pool since dipping her toes in the industry. K Naomi Phakathi, a TV personality turned fashion and lifestyle influencer, also attended the event but opted not to play boules, citing concerns about breaking her legs in her high heels.

Gemaén Taylor, a creative director and digital content creator, got in on the game and duelled against Emmanuel Tjiya, editor-in-chief of Sowetan S Mag. Taylor, along with another content creator, Eddie Vilakazi, played against Tjiya and the author. The game involves each side aiming to throw a metal ball as close to the cochonnet as possible, and the team that lands their boule closest to the target wins.

The picnic baskets at the boules court include a range of French-inspired delicacies, including macarons and sparkling-wine-flavoured potato chips. The baskets are designed to be self-service, allowing guests to graze and enjoy the French-inspired food and drink. The event was a welcome distraction from the municipal elections, which took place on the same day.

The boules court at Le Parc Polofields is a unique addition to the Midrand area, offering a taste of French culture and cuisine. The court is open to guests who want to enjoy a game of boules and some French-inspired food and drink. With its beautiful gardens and French-inspired decor, Le Parc Polofields is a must-visit destination for those looking for a unique dining experience.

Key points

• The boules court at Le Parc Polofields offers a unique French-inspired experience, complete with picnic baskets and French-inspired food and drink.