How does a hotel get it right to be historic, beautiful, serious, charming and reminiscent of another era while at the same time relaxed, fun, comfortable and pampering? I don’t have the answer, but the Belmond Mount Nelson certainly does.
According to the Worlds 50 Best Hotels the Mount Nelson, ranks at No.28 and claims the place of 2024’s Best Hotel in Africa:
“Skirted by mountain and metropolis, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town fuses its 125 years of heritage with 21st-century relevance in the urban heart of the city, surrounded by the country’s leading designer boutiques and buzzing cafés. Nestled within 8 acres of verdant gardens that unfold beneath the gaze of Table Mountain, the hotel plugs guests into the pulse of this iconic Southern African destination, from front-row fashion paired with the Nellie’s legendary afternoon tea; collaborations with modern and contemporary African creatives; exceptional dining with new Executive Chef Luke Lawrence Barry; to expert-led marine biology adventures and journeys into the city’s internationally acclaimed winelands.”
Furthermore, Tiago Moraes Sarmento, Area Managing Director, Belmond Southern Africa, explains: “Our daily focus is on how we make our guests, and our staff feel. We have the ability to influence that narrative by creating unforgettable moments that epitomise slow luxury for the modern traveller. We are so thrilled to be recognised for the passion and dedication of our extraordinary colleagues who continue to craft magic for our guests and make people smile!”
Our stay was unforgettable, particularly due to the careful attention to detail. The rooms are beautifully appointed with every need catered to, down to a pink Nellie pen, the fluffiest bath towels, bedding and a bed made out of dreams, customised stationery, a concierge to consider every request and beaming staff.
The hotel pool is one of the best you will ever find. No steps – just a slow glide along a rail into the warm water that stretches onwards. Loungers and waiting staff are at your beck and call, and old-world tented cabanas, are set in the incredible gardens amongst amazing sculptures.
Breakfast was in the Palms and was a no-holds-barred smorgasbord of bubbly, mimosas, fresh pastry, fruit, and cooked breakfast heaven. All the traditional dishes are available and many others.
We were there for a chef’s table experience, where we got to meet the new executive chef, Luke Lawrence Barry. Deep in the belly of the Mount Nelson is a beast of a kitchen but the dining experience was surprisingly quiet & cosy.
We e were treated to a multi-course meal with wonderful wines served by the head Sommelier, Keegan Terry.
The emphasis of this special table and food was on family and tradition. Each dish was created and conceptualised with the chefs in the kitchen and their heritage and memories. Luke explained he wanted the food to evoke the childhood memories of his team and how they grew up.
The evening was not stuffy, and we all commented on how intimate, relaxed and memorable our experience was.
Our full menu from the night:
“A bespoke journey though the memories and flavours we grew up with, surrounded by Aunts, Oumas and friends. We welcome you on a journey influenced by textures, spices and exquisite aromas from our childhood that inspire us to be the chefs we are today.”
“Ouma”
Pressed pap with chakalaka, red bell pepper sauce and cherry tomato ketchup
“Nienies ”
Pan fried fish, toasted hazelnut butter and handpicked gremolata.
“Oom Fabian”
Butter poached crayfish, malay curry puree and grilled corn.
“Gees”
Braaid wagyu beef sirloin, potato salad, green salad and monkey gland sauce.
“Mommy”
Cheese craffle , smoked gruberg creme and pickled vegetables.
“We weren’t allowed any”
Nyangbo cremeux,granadilla frozen yorghurt and vanilla chantilly roulade
I’m looking forward to seeing what else Luke introduces. There are plans for Four-hands’ dinners which will feature exclusive bi-monthly events with emerging culinary talents at the Chef’s Table.
Plans are in place for a Fountain Restaurant with a Mediterranean feel with live Neapolitan pizza preparation.
Contact The Belmond Mount Nelson to make a reservation for the Hotel or The Chefs Table Experience.
*I was hosted as a guest of the Belmond Mount Nelson to enjoy the Chefs Table Experience.
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