No stranger to South African food enthusiasts, the LivingRoom has affirmed its reputation with top accolades including the locally prestigious 2022 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant of The Year Award as well as a distinguished ‘two-star restaurant’ rating at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards. More recently, the LivingRoom has received international acclaim from The Best Chef, having been awarded ‘one knife’ in the 2024 edition. This global recognition is testament to the efforts and talent of locally renowned Chef Johannes Richter and brilliant front of house and sommelier, Johanna Richter.

This family-run restaurant is located within the Summerhill Guest Estate in KwaZulu-Natal. Think lush green gardens, spacious bedrooms, cosy fire places and tranquil surroundings. Lunch offers a relaxed experience in the dining room, featuring fresh comfort food with a side of soothing live South African jazz music. Dinner is the highlight, boasting an open-kitchen chef’s table experience in the recently revamped kitchen. This intimate dining experience offers a choice of a six or eight-course tasting menu.  The seasonal menu showcases hyper-local and indigenous ingredients endemic to KwaZulu-Natal, including ukhova heritage banana, amadumbe (tropical root vegetable) and sugar cane. Chef Johannes is proudly championing sustainability and seasonality – while incorporating his classic French technique with his passion for Asian flavours – to create a truly unique culinary experience. The drink pairing offers a selection of impeccable local wines, fantastic cocktails as well as a phenomenal non-alcoholic option expertly curated by Johanna.

The LivingRoom is a celebration of Kwa-Zulu Natal produce. Husband-and-wife duo, Chef Johannes and Johanna Richter, have created a culinary gem in the heart of Pinetown; a well-received addition to the Durban food scene. If you’re searching for an idyllic foodie weekend getaway, the LivingRoom is the answer.

You can find more information about the LivingRoom here.