When the opportunity comes along to sample some of the best modern cuisine in Johannesburg, how can anyone say no?! Date Night at the Maximillien Restaurant is just one of those occasions. Nestled in a hidden corner of the Da Vinci Hotel in Sandton, the setting with its floor to ceiling windows and views of the Sandton skyline is opulent to say the least. Date Night is a new weekly initiative that allows couples to sample Executive Chef Sylvester Nair’s mouth-watering urbanised French cuisine. Nair is renowned as a designer of flavours and a composer of tastes, so it was with a great deal of anticipation that we sat down for dinner.
The Food & Wine
After a friendly welcome by our waiter for the evening, we enjoyed our starter of a biltong, blue cheese and butternut salad paired with a crisp white Nederburg sauvignon blanc. This subtle blend of flavours was followed by a main course of Sole en Papillote with mussels, clams, white wine velouté, tomato and spring onions. Not being the most adventurous seafood eater, I was pleasantly surprised by this dish. Chef Nair’s flavour profiles work in true harmony and make for a very pleasing dining experience.
The Dessert
After another glass of vino, the true pièce de résistance arrived at our table – Chocolate Dome Surprise, The Maximillien’s signature dessert. The theatricality of this dish is an experience in itself. Hot caramel sauce is poured onto the chocolate dome which melts to reveal a chocolate fondant in a sweet caramel and homemade ice-cream infusion. It’s decadent, delicious and just too good to resist!
A Must Try
This inventive take on fine-dining and meticulous attention to detail, make Date Night at the Maximillien a must on every couple’s festive to-do list.
Every Thursday night is Date Night! R400 per couple including a bottle of wine!
Pre-booking is essential, Contact Naidene Cary on 011 292 7000 or ncary@legacyhotels.com
The Maximillien
02 Maude St, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2146, South Africa