Is there anything more indulgent than enjoying a delectable breakfast spread, especially on a weekday morning? Add in Smoked Salmon and Mimosas, and I’m there! This is the benchmark by which I measure all my breakfast experiences. Of course, a beautiful setting, relaxed ambience and flawless service are important factors too.

A recent visit to The Conservatory Restaurant surpassed all my expectations of what a truly delicious breakfast is all about. The 5-star boutique The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel is only a short drive from the bustling city centre in an area known as ‘Cape Town’s Vineyard’, the historical and breathtakingly beautiful Constantia Valley.

Driving through the front gate, one immediately feels transported to another world, a world of grandeur, serenity and unparalleled luxury. The historic hotel is part of The Liz McGrath Collection and a proud member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. I visited this elegant establishment on previous occasions, but this was to be my first dining experience. Expectations were high and I was not disappointed.

The Conservatory Restaurant offers guests three special locations where they can dine – the main dining area with spectacular views of the historical garden and its Camphor trees; the ‘breakfast room’ and the terrace overlooking the garden. All three are beautiful, peaceful spaces that invite you to linger longer, but it was the idyllic terrace that was calling my name.

A sunny summer’s morning called for al fresco dining and the terrace was the perfect spot for this. It is not every day that Ryan and I enjoy a languid breakfast in such magnificent surroundings. The Continental buffet spread beckoned but first, coffee! Sipping on a frothy cappuccino while glancing at the enticing menu, time was needed to properly sample the tantalising array of delicious fare.

Matladi made sure my first Mimosa was ready and waiting at our table while we went off to fill our first plates. For me, smoked salmon, fresh fruit and cheeses. Ryan skipped the fruit and went straight for the cured meats and cheese, as I knew he would.  If these don’t appeal to you, fear not as there are plenty of options to choose from.

The sumptuous smorgasbord offers fresh fruit juices, including immune boosters such as Carrot & Ginger or Beetroot & Ginger. Choose from a selection of cereals and homemade muesli, sliced seasonal fruits, hams and cured meats, cheese platter and preserves and a pastry basket that includes scones, muffins and Danish pastries.

The pickled mushrooms were a delightful surprise. As you can probably tell, you will not leave hungry! At this stage, I was wondering how we would manage the hot breakfast. Fortunately, the unhurried pace allows you to take your time.

Talented Executive Chef Tronette Dippenaar began her career within The Liz McGrath Collection in 2008. Starting as Chef de Partie at The Marine in Hermanus, she has held a variety of Chef positions within the group and now runs the pass at The Conservatory Restaurant with her ‘fresh is best’ food philosophy.

‘My menu is uncomplicated and unpretentious, and my dishes are full of flavour.  I stay true to South African cuisine, which I like to present with a modern twist. Growing up on a farm gave me a deep appreciation of produce and where it comes from, including the time and effort invested into growing nutritious vegetables and fruit.’

The Hot Breakfast menu offers a number of tempting dishes. The Cellar’s Full English, Eggs Benedict, Smoked Salmon & Scrambled Eggs and Smashed Avo on Toasted Rye are some of the star attractions. For those with a hankering for something sweet, French Toast and Crumpets should do the trick.

I love that you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy this sensational breakfast feast. Reservations are essential at The Conservatory Restaurant, served daily from 07h00 – 10h30. At just R295.00 per person, don’t you think it’s time to treat yourself and your special someone? Flowing Mimosas and Smoked Salmon are just some of the delights that await. Matladi, Philoso, our server, and Happiness offered attentive service and smiles, ensuring an unforgettable experience at The Conservatory.

Spread across nine acres, the hotel’s magnificent award-winning gardens are ideal for a leisurely stroll after breakfast. The enchanting setting will make it rather hard to leave this peaceful oasis in the heart of Constantia.

THE CELLARS-HOHENORT

Tel: +27 21 794 2137

Email: functions@cellars-hohenort.co.za

Please note:  I was invited by FIVESTAR PR to experience The Conservatory Restaurant at The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel for review purposes. Images and views are my own. Prices are subject to change without prior notice. All Covid-19 safety and hygiene protocols were adhered to. Thank you for a delicious and thoroughly enjoyable dining experience.