There’s something truly magical about sitting at Upside Downers Bar & Restaurant in Ponta Malongane as the warm sea breeze drifts through, your toes buried in beachy sand, and the soft golden glow of sunset paints the sky. But the real highlight for many isn’t just the view — it’s the prawns.
The Prawn Experience
- Rich and Succulent
Guests consistently rave about the “best prawns” in Malongane. They are described as succulent, juicy, and cooked with care. According to a Tripadvisor reviewer, the peri-peri prawns at Upside Downers are “so succulent and the spicing was perfect.” Tripadvisor - Prawn Cakes That Impress
It’s not just grilled prawns — the prawn cakes are a crowd favorite. In a Facebook group dedicated to the restaurant, someone excitedly wrote:“Prawn cakes, chicken & prawns. Yummyyy.” Facebook - Simple but Flavorful Combinations
There are posts and photos showing grilled calamari paired with prawns, offering a surf-and-sea combo that feels fresh and satisfying. Facebook - Relaxed, Beachy Cooking Style
According to a blog by GoBundu, the ambiance at Upside Downers is laid back and genuine — you can sit under a thatch roof with your feet in the sand while the kitchen (run by the owners) prepares your meal. Gobundu - Community Vibe & Friendly Service
The restaurant seems to be run by people who care, and it has a very welcoming, friendly “pop in for a Hallo” feel. Go Moz+2Facebook+2 People mention chatting with Yolanda (presumably one of the owners) and feeling very much at home. Gobundu
Why the Prawns Shine Here
- Freshness Matters: Being right by the coast in Malongane means access to fresh seafood. The prawns don’t feel like a side thought — they’re a feature.
- Spice Balance: The peri-peri or similar seasoning is praised, not overpowering but enhancing the sweet, briny taste of the prawns.
- Cooking Technique: Whether grilled, in cakes, or combined with sea flavors like calamari — the cooking seems thoughtful, with good textures (crisp, tender) and well-chosen pairings.
- Chill but Special: The setting makes every bite feel like part of a relaxed evening ritual — sand, waves, friends, a cold drink, and prawns that taste like they were made just for you.
In short: The prawns at Upside Downers in Malongane are more than just food — they’re a sensory experience. They combine the freshness of the Mozambican coast with warm, welcoming hospitality and a dash of spice. If you go there for dinner, order the prawns — they’re often the reason people return.
