The Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, ushers in esteemed chef George Jardine as its new Executive Chef. A harbinger of heritage and contemporary cool in the heart of the city, the iconic hotel has its sights set on a bold gastronomic future and the Scottish-born chef is an integral part of this journey.
A celebrity in the culinary halls of fame, George leaves behind a wake of success at restaurants Jordan (most recently), Jardine and Seven, coupled with stints at lauded restaurants and hotels across the globe. Of his new culinary home ground he says: “the Mount Nelson has always been an icon and — in one way or another — has been part of my life since the day I arrived in South Africa. So, when we discovered our alignment on the position, it felt like destiny.”
With a string of accolades to his name, such as Eat Out Chef of The Year for two years running and a spot as one of the world’s 100 best restaurants (through Jardine) by The S.Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants, the celebrated chef brings an impressive legacy and the skills needed to transform the best locally produced ingredients into a culinary experience worth flying across the globe for.
“Our gastronomic vision at the Mount Nelson hotel is inspired by ever-evolving culinary inclinations. Partnering with chefs like George Jardine, who continue to innovate and curate ever-new experiences for our guests, is pivotal to our gastronomic metamorphosis,” adds Tiago Moraes Sarmento, General Manager of the Mount Nelson.
Whether it’s an alfresco picnic in the property’s lush gardens, a seasonally inspired harvest table set under the shade of mature trees or a coveted seat ‘backstage’ at the Chef’s Table, guests can expect to be immersed in the bounty of the Cape, journeying through its distinctive flavours and seasons. “The Nellie has gone through eras of great chefs. I look forward to continuing that progression and working with the team to render the Mount Nelson a one-of-a-kind destination on the international dining scene,” he adds.
Keep an eye on their news channels, because the Mount Nelson will be making more culinary waves in the months to come.