By Katherine Greene
When the Saxon Boutique Hotel and Spa in Johannesburg decided to open a new restaurant, it was only fitting for it to be named in honor of beloved guest Nelson Mandela.
The newly opened Saxon Qunu Grill, named after the Eastern Cape village where the former president was born, is the Saxon’s newest addition to its existing lineup of fine dining options.
The restaurant, led by noted South African chef David Higgs, offers guests an innovative menu that blends traditional South African ingredients and flavors with both contemporary and classic culinary techniques. With creative menu items featuring locally sourced ingredients, like free range and grass-fed beef from the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and fresh mussels from the West Coast, the grill stays close to its roots.
“The introduction of Saxon Qunu Grill to the hotel’s dining options has been a natural progression for us, where the heritage of Africa is encapsulated in not only the décor, but in the flavors of the fare we present to our guests,” said Managing Director George Cohen.
The interior of the restaurant is bathed in red earth-tones that emphasize woven lampshades, carved wooden walls and hanging gardens, all echoing the Cape feeling that resonates throughout the hotel. Opening up into a terrace shaded by a canopy of fig trees, guests can enjoy outdoor dining as well.
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Qunu Grill boasts and “all-day” menu featuring fish, beef, poultry and game as well many vegetarian dishes. Lunch and dinner service is provided as well as an indulgent Sunday Brunch.
“With the Saxon exuding the warmth of a home,” Chef Higgs said, “Saxon Qunu Grill’s experience is the very same one I would afford my family and friends in my very own home.”
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