Convenience culture is mainstream and few can do convenience food better than Woolworths. They have now entered the fast food space with NOW NOW, a Fresh and Fast convenience food concept.

The NOW NOW concept was actually launched in 2017 with a store in Longmarket Street in the CBD. But it was not halaal. They seem to be revitalising the concept and have just launched the Canal Walk store as fully halaal, certified by the MJC. Several more halaal stores are expected to open in Cape Town. The V&A Waterfront will have one soon though we are not clear if it will be halaal. And Gauteng will be glad to know a halaal store for Sandton City has been earmarked.

We checked out the Canal Walk store to see what the set-up was like.

The store is conveniently located at the food court and serves wraps, toasties, burgers, bowls and salads. They also have a good range of smoothies and coffee. There are several tables and chairs, a long cushioned bench against one wall and plug points are available for laptops.

You place an order at the counter and take a table. Our food was promised to take no more than 7 minutes and was within the limit. You can also download their app and order ahead.

We had the Chicken Mayo and Mozzarella toastie and the Pesto Chicken Club wrap. Both were good but the wrap, in particular, was excellent. Light and fresh but filling – packed with free-range chicken, smoked beef, pesto mayo, cucumber, peas and green herb slaw. The Apple, Spinach & Avo smoothie could have been a little punchier but also went down nicely.

The food is true to the Woolworths ethos of fresh and healthy and they have some hearty options on the menu but the store is more designed for quick stops to fuel up rather than lengthy lunch dates.