A timeless Cape Town icon, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is redefining luxury with a modern, easygoing charm.

At 125 years young, 'The Nellie' is proof that heritage and innovation can go hand in hand.

This summer, the hotel invites you to dive into its latest culinary chapter: two bold new dining experiences celebrating the flavours of South Africa and beyond—The Fountain by Planet Bar and the Saturday Braai.

Leading this exciting transformation is Executive Chef Luke Lawrence Barry, whose philosophy is refreshingly simple: honour the local, embrace authenticity, and find joy in sharing great food.

The Fountain by Planet Bar: Laid-Back Luxury

Picture this: a long lunch that effortlessly rolls into dinner, set in a lush garden haven. Towering trees, blooming flowers, and the unmistakable hum of Cape Town’s summer breeze—it’s all happening at The Fountain by Planet Bar.

Here, Mediterranean-inspired dishes meet the best local ingredients, creating a menu that’s as vibrant as the setting.

Travel, Foodies, Restaurant — Mount Nelson Hotel drinks, Image: Candice Bodington

Whether you’re popping in for a casual bite or gathering with friends, The Fountain is all about unfussy indulgence. Start with antipasti and a Negroni Spritz, then dive into dishes like Zuney Wagyu bone marrow, fresh Cape burrata, and house-made charcuterie.

The Nonna-style pork and beef meatballs, West Coast prawn scampi, and Saldanha Bay mussels are a must-try, while roasted calamari, eggplant, and wood-fired flatbreads keep things effortlessly chic.

Travel, Foodies, Restaurant — Mount Nelson Hotel food, Image: Candice Bodington

For dessert, the pistachio bomboloni is pure decadence, while the limoncellomisu—a fresh, playful take on tiramisu—ends the meal on a high note.

To complete the experience, Head Mixologist Jonathan Makonga has curated a cocktail menu designed to match the garden’s laid-back elegance. Sip on the zesty Green Goddess or share a jug of sangria bursting with fresh fruits. Every drink tells a story, one you’ll remember long after the last sip.

True to its commitment to local excellence, Mount Nelson partners with top-tier South African suppliers like Farmer Angus for charcuterie and eggs, Meuse Farm for organic vegetables and flowers, and even its own chef’s garden for fresh herbs.

Saturday Braai: A Tribute to South African Tradition

For those who believe weekends are made for good food, the Saturday Braai at Oasis is an absolute must. Every Saturday from 12:00 to 15:00, the air fills with the unmistakable aroma of fire-grilled perfection as guests gather on the lawn for a feast that celebrates South Africa’s legendary braai culture.

Travel, Foodies, Restaurant — Mount Nelson Hotel food, Image: Claire Gunn

Think sizzling Boerewors Rolls, succulent local beef cuts, and perfectly grilled shellfish, all paired with timeless sides like Samp and Beans, Potato Salad, Mealie Pap, and Braai Broodjies.

And because no braai is complete without something sweet, expect classic Afrikaans koeksisters, Cape Malay koesisters, Malva Pudding bites, and the nostalgic indulgence of Peppermint Crisp.

Travel, Foodies, Restaurant — Mount Nelson Hotel food, Image: Claire Gunn

Pair it all with an ice-cold craft beer or a crisp glass of local wine, set against the soothing backdrop of a live acoustic performance.

A New Era of Culinary Excellence

With these exciting new dining experiences, Mount Nelson is taking South African hospitality to stylish new heights. Recently crowned Best Hotel in Africa and ranked No. 28 on the 2024 World’s 50 Best Hotels list, it’s clear that The Nellie is not just keeping up with the times—it’s setting the standard.

Travel, Foodies, Restaurant — Mount Nelson Belmond Legends, Image: Rosie Marks

Saturday Braai is open weekly from 12:00 to 15:00. The Fountain by Planet Bar welcomes guests seven days a week for lunch and dinner from 12:00 onwards.

For reservations and more information, call +27 21 483-1000 or email restaurantreservations.mnh@belmond.com.