Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel Unveils New Dining Destinations
Cape Town’s Iconic Retreat Unveils Two New Al Fresco Dining Experiences
Located in the heart of Cape Town, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, offers fresh culinary experiences. This renowned pink property celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. It is carving out a new reputation with two exciting outdoor dining spots: The Fountain by Planet Bar and Saturday Braai.
A Fresh Culinary Chapter at Mount Nelson
Under the creative direction of Executive Chef Luke Lawrence Barry, the hotel is reinviting its gastronomic landscape. Chef Barry’s philosophy is rooted in local authenticity and the joy of sharing good food, setting the stage for a delightful culinary journey that showcases the diversity of South African flavours and beyond.
The Mount Nelson Fountain by Planet Bar
The Fountain by Planet Bar, where leisurely lunches seamlessly transition into delightful dinners amidst the lush gardens of Mount Nelson. Here, ancient trees and vibrant blooms create an inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed outdoor dining experience. The menu offers a Mediterranean-inspired selection, featuring locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the essence of the region.
Signature dishes feature Zuney Wagyu bone marrow, fresh Cape burrata, and house-made charcuterie, paired with cheeses from Wild Peacock. Diners can savour Nonna-style pork and beef meatballs, West Coast prawn scampi, and roasted calamari in the lovely garden. For dessert, enjoy pistachio bomboloni and limoncellomisu with fresh berries.

The cocktail menu, crafted by Head Mixologist Jonathan Makonga, adds a refreshing touch to the experience. Guests can sip on the zesty Green Goddess or share a jug of sangria bursting with fresh fruits, perfectly complementing the relaxed garden vibe.
In a commitment to sustainability, Mount Nelson proudly collaborates with well-known local suppliers. For instance, they partner with Farmer Angus from Spier for charcuterie and eggs, while also working with Meuse Farm for organic vegetables and flowers. Additionally, many herbs come from the hotel’s own chef’s garden, which ensures a fresh, home-grown element in every dish.

Saturday Braai
Every Saturday from 12:00 to 15:00, Mount Nelson invites guests to indulge in the much loved South African tradition of a braai at Oasis. This vibrant outdoor gathering showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage, with wood-fired cooking taking centre stage on the picturesque poolside lawn.
Guests can savour a delicious selection of multicultural braai favorites. For example, they can enjoy the iconic Boerewors Roll, succulent local beef cuts, and grilled shellfish. Meanwhile, traditional sides like Samp and Beans, Potato Salad, Mealie Pap, and Braai Broodjies add to the authentic experience. Then, for dessert, guests can indulge in classic Afrikaans koeksisters, Cape Malay koesisters, and the nostalgia-laden Peppermint Crisp tart.
As the aroma of grilled meats fills the air, guests can enjoy a refreshing local craft beer or wine, all set against the backdrop of live acoustic performances, creating a truly immersive experience.

A Celebration of Culinary Heritage
With these new offerings, Mount Nelson continues to enchant guests with its captivating blend of luxury and cultural richness. Recently, the hotel has proudly garnered accolades, including being named Best Hotel in Africa and ranking No. 28 on the 2024 World’s 50 Best Hotels list, which reaffirms its status as a premier destination.
So, whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch at The Fountain or craving the vibrant atmosphere of Saturday Braai, the hotel warmly invites you to indulge in its evolving culinary landscape.
For reservations and further information, please contact +27 21 483-100 or email restaurantreservations.mnh@belmond.com or check the website https://www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/.