Make this Christmas Dinner the most sumptuous ever with a lavish six-course festive meal conceived and prepared by Executive Chef Paul Nash of The Conservatory at The Cellars-Hohenort in Constantia, Cape Town. The jewel of the Constantia Valley, The Cellars-Hohenort is an impeccably appointed five-star hotel located in a majestic heritage building and surrounded by 9 acres of award-winning gardens. The Conservatory offers panoramic views out onto the renowned grounds of the hotel, which, combined with the tasteful interior design and fine food, all serve to enhance the experience. It’s an incredible setting with a delectable menu – what better for your festivities?
Whether you’re in Cape Town on holiday, staying at the hotel, or a resident Capetonian who prefers to enjoy Christmas in gourmet style rather than slave away in the kitchen for days, The Conservatory is a welcoming, family-friendly destination for a memorable festive celebration. Chef Paul has taken the yuletide spirit to heart and opens the meal with a themed Christmas cocktail. The clear Christmas Turkey consommé is a contemporary play on the traditional bird; as is the classic gammon terrine, which is accompanied by roasted apple and pear. Artisan breads and butters round off the starters.
To follow there’s your choice of duck or Franschhoek salmon trout. If the duck appeals, expect a variation on Barbary Duck, replete with confit duck leg, cured and oak-smoked breast, parfait, candied walnuts and pickled berries. If the trout’s your preference, it will come pan-seared with a delicate lemon velouté, cucumber and dill salad and salmon trout tartare.
A cranberry and pomegranate granita with Champagne espuma will cleanse the palate before the main course begins. The slow-roasted Karoo lamb shoulder and lamb noisette is served with heirloom baby carrots, mint jelly and roasted garlic jus. Alternatively, there’s a Truffle Chicken Roulade featuring roasted celeriac, charred onion and a rich black truffle chicken jus. All mains are served with family-style side dishes. These include Parmesan-baked vegetables, roasted baby potatoes, chestnut and sweet potato puree, green beans with almonds and bacon, and grilled honey-glazed cinnamon pumpkin.
For dessert you can choose between the Ceres cherry and dark chocolate gateaux that comes with decadent, drunken fresh cherries, Cassis lime gel and cherry swirl ice cream; or, the lemon, poppy and orange shortbread that is dressed with an almond and white chocolate ganache, a crisp and light sesame tuile, and fragrant orange blossom ice cream. After dessert, bespoke Christmas Petit Fours are served with either coffee or tea.
The Conservatory honours the varying seasons and dishes are subject to change according to the availability of fresh produce. Vegetarian and other dietary options are available. The cost for The Conservatory Christmas Dinner is at R 950 per person and booking is essential.
