In December last year, a good friend of mine got married at Kloofzicht Lodge and Spa. The bride, my close friend, is a fellow foodie herself with great taste. The hotel and venue itself I remembered being beautiful from my sister in law’s wedding a few years ago. In December, I was also aware at the time that Chris Tustian had recently been appointed the new Executive Chef (and I’d heard great things about him and his food). Suffice to say I took this as a sign and decided to make a weekend of the wedding and book accommodation at Kloofzicht.

My benedict and I enjoyed a dinner at the restaurant on a Friday evening. Upon our arrival we were served a beautiful tasty salmon amuse bouche. For starters I opted for the smoked beef with corn textures. This was smoked beef slices served with corn served four ways; corn panna cotta, charred corn, corn puree and popped corn. I loved this dish. Such an elegant yet modern dish which was beautifully presented. My benedict chose the deconstructed duck stir fry. This dish comprised thinly sliced duck breast served with pickled red cabbage, green beans, glass noodles, candied beetroot and hoisin gel. Another superb starter from Kloofzicht by Chef Chris. We were then served a refreshing palate cleanser; a lemon sorbet – delicious! For my main dish, I went for the braised pork belly (one of my favourites). The pork was beautifully cooked and served with a bitter onion puree, braised cabbage, rosemary foam, baby beetroot gel and apple jus. A really tasty dish and a great choice for my main. My benedict opted for the chicken roulade. This was served with a salted nut crumble, bacon and fig jam and baby butternut. Another tasty dish that was well executed. For dessert we shared a chocolate éclair; simple, decadent and delicious.

The service at Kloofzicht restaurant was really good. The restaurant has an elegant feel to it and looks out over a beautiful natural scenery. Both Kloofzicht and Chef Chris lived up to their great reputations. I look forward to visiting again soon for another superb weekend away.