Mount Nelson unveils new al fresco dining destinations
Nestled in the heart of Cape Town, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is rewriting the rules of slow luxury hospitality, adapting with the spirit of the times.
Today, at 125 years old, The Nellie remains young at heart, blending its storied heritage with fresh, contemporary experiences. This summer, the hotel invites guests to explore its latest culinary chapter: two vibrant new dining destinations celebrating the diverse flavours of South Africa and beyond—The Fountain by Planet Bar and Saturday Braai.
The creative force behind this exciting evolution is Executive Chef Luke Lawrence Barry, whose culinary philosophy is as refreshing as it is simple: embrace the local, honour the authentic, and celebrate the joy of sharing good food.
The fountain by planet bar
Imagine the kind of leisurely lunch that melts into dinner, a scene unfolding in the lush garden surroundings. Here, ancient trees and vibrant blooms invite you to a laid-back, alfresco dining experience. This is The Fountain by Planet Bar— brimming with a quintessential casual cool that only The Nellie can offer, indulge in a fresh take on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine rooted in locally sourced ingredients.
Whether it’s a spontaneous drop-in or a planned gathering with friends or loved ones, each visit to The Fountain promises moments of delightful, fuss-free indulgence. Start with antipasti and a refreshing Negroni Spritz, and let the meal unfold organically as you explore more and more.
The menu reflects a thoughtful curation of dishes such as Zuney Wagyu bone marrow, fresh Cape burrata, house-made charcuterie, and artisanal cheeses from nearby suppliers like Wild Peacock. Other offerings include Nonna-style pork and beef meatballs with fresh bread, West Coast prawn scampi, Saldanha Bay mussels, roasted calamari or eggplant, and a medley of flatbreads prepared just steps from your table. The dessert menu offers a decadent pistachio bomboloni, while the limoncellomisu with fresh berries provides a playful twist on the classic tiramisu.
The Fountain also boasts a cocktail menu created by Head Mixologist Jonathan Makonga, where each drink complements the relaxed garden ambiance, adding a story that lingers long after the meal. Try the signature Green Goddess for something zesty or share a jug of sangria bursting with fresh fruits.
To honour the bounty of South Africa’s landscape, Mount Nelson is working closely with renowned local suppliers, including Farmer Angus from Spier for charcuterie and eggs, and Meuse Farm for organic vegetables and flowers. Many herbs are also sourced directly from the hotel’s own chef's garden, adding a home-grown element to each dish.
Saturday braai
This is the ode to South Africa’s beloved culinary tradition that local guests and global travellers from far and wide have been longing for. Hosted every Saturday (12:00 – 15:00) at Oasis, Saturday Braai spills onto Mount Nelson’s poolside lawn under a veil of fragrant smoke, where guests are invited on a journey into local heritage, championing our passion for outdoor cooking. Expect authenticity, generosity, and the finest selection of South Africa’s legendary meats.
The braai itself unfolds on the lawn, where guests are encouraged to gather and watch the wood-fired cooking in action. Choose from a range of South Africa’s multicultural braai favourites, including the iconic Boerewors Roll, succulent local beef cuts, and Grilled Shellfish. These can be paired with traditional sides such as Samp and Beans, Potato Salad, Mealie Pap, and Braai Broodjies.
For dessert, indulge in classic Afrikaans koeksisters, Cape Malay koesisters, Malva Pudding bites, and nostalgia-laden Peppermint Crisp. Complementing this feast, guests can enjoy cold local craft beer or wine, all set to the soothing sounds of a live acoustic performance.
A new era of culinary heritage
Together, these experiences infuse contemporary flair and cultural richness into Mount Nelson's offerings, adding an element of playful enjoyment. Celebrating recent accolades, including being named Best Hotel in Africa and ranked No. 28 on the 2024 World’s 50 Best Hotels list, Mount Nelson’s evolving culinary landscape reaffirms its place as an iconic destination. With its steadfast commitment to creating unforgettable moments, Mount Nelson continues to enchant with its captivating blend of slow luxury travel experiences, inviting all to indulge in its evolving culinary landscape.
Saturday Braai is open weekly from 12:00 to 15:00. The Fountain by Planet Bar, now open, will welcome guests seven days a week for lunch and dinner from 12 onwards.
For reservations and more information, please contact +27 21 483-100 or email restaurantreservations.mnh@belmond.com.