For luxury-loving travellers, a world-class hotel is about more than just a plush bed – it’s often also an invitation to indulge in culinary artistry. In South Africa, where flavours are as vibrant as the landscapes, a handful of luxury stays have mastered the alchemy of fine dining and five-star hospitality. From Ellerman House’s Michelin-worthy tasting menus in Cape Town to The Oyster Box’s legendary curry buffet by the Indian Ocean, these four South African escapes are worth booking for the food alone.
One&Only Cape Town
Restaurants: Nobu and Rooi
One&Only Cape Town has exceptional restaurants that elevate its luxury status in the Mother City. At Nobu, the iconic Japanese-Peruvian fusion menu dazzles with signature dishes like black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeño, paired with breathtaking Table Bay views. Meanwhile, Rooi showcases modern South African cuisine, while Vista Bar & Lounge serves up elegant afternoon teas and cocktails.
These swanky eateries emphasise fresh, local ingredients, impeccable service, and stylish waterfront settings. Whether craving world-renowned sushi or inventive Cape flavours, One&Only’s dining scene delivers an unforgettable gourmet experience.
The Oyster Box, Durban
Restaurants: The Grill Room and The Ocean Terrace.
The Oyster Box in Durban is famously a go-to for royals and A-listers visiting KwaZulu-Natal. In the city of spice, it’s no surprise that the property is also a culinary gem with two standout restaurants under its roof. The Grill Room is famed for its fresh seafood towers, oysters, and prime cuts like grilled line fish with lemon butter, served in an elegant, seaside setting. The Ocean Terrace is a local institution, offering a lavish spread of Durban’s signature spicy dishes, including its legendary prawn curry and fragrant bunny chow.
The hotel’s Palm Court is a grand, luminous space filled with lush greenery and decorated with a Vladimir Tretchikoff painting, providing a truly memorable backdrop for a relaxed High Tea. These venues blend timeless colonial charm with warm Indian Ocean breezes, impeccable service, and unforgettable flavours, making The Oyster Box a must-visit for foodies exploring Durban.
Ellerman House, Cape Town
Restaurants: OneEighty and Curate
Ellerman House is Cape Town’s pinnacle of boutique luxury, perched above the Atlantic with breathtaking ocean and Lion’s Head views. This Relais & Châteaux property blends contemporary art, a 7,000-bottle wine cellar, and personalised service in an intimate villa setting. Its signature restaurant offers an exquisite farm-to-table experience, led by Michelin-trained chefs.
OneEighty at Ellerman House offers daily-changing menus that highlight the finest seasonal ingredients, paired with carefully selected wines amid a stunning collection of South African art. Recently, the hotel introduced Curate, an elevated fine-dining experience set within the Wine Gallery. Curate features a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu that reimagines South African cuisine, drawing inspiration from the region’s rich culinary heritage and diverse cultural influences. This innovative dining concept is a must-try exploration of South Africa’s flavours and local traditions.
Leeu Estates, Franschhoek
Restaurant: The Dining Room
Leeu Estates in Franschhoek is a wine-lover’s paradise, blending luxury, art, and world-class dining amongst the Cape Winelands’ picturesque vineyards. This elegant estate features spacious suites with private terraces, a serene spa, and curated contemporary art.
At its heart lies The Dining Room, where crafts seasonal, ingredient-driven dishes like slow-roasted Karoo lamb with smoked eggplant and line fish ceviche with citrus granita take centre stage. La Colombe, an award-winning restaurant located in the Constantia wine region, has expanded its culinary legacy by establishing a sister restaurant at Leeu Estates. This new location allows guests to experience La Colombe’s acclaimed cuisine and innovative approach to fine dining in the picturesque setting of one of the country’s most celebrated wine regions. The property’s unique fusion of vineyard charm, culinary innovation, and bespoke hospitality makes Leeu Estates a gourmet retreat for those who savour the finer (and tastier) things in life.
