The Plettenberg Hotel has unveiled its new-look restaurant, which is destined to become a popular new Plett venue not only for resident guests, but also for casual diners booking for breakfast, lunch, cocktails and dinner.
The restaurant, Amelia’s at The Plettenberg, was reimagined in design and interiors by Dawn Dickerson, Carmel Naude and Tammy Fourie of HotCocoa Interiors & Design. The same team was also responsible for the new-look of The Conservatory restaurant at sister-hotel, The Cellars-Hohenort in Cape Town, which opened last year (2023).
The Plettenberg boasts an unrivalled prime position on a rocky headland in one of South Africa’s most spectacular beach towns. Dawn Dickerson says the creative design started with this sense of place, inspired by the magnificent view of the ocean and sweep of bay across Lookout Beach, with purple hued mountains in the distance. The restaurant terrace was doubled in size with long banquette seating and a timber pergola, creating an inviting space for outdoor dining overlooking the ocean. Inside, the space was opened up by replacing four structural columns with elegant beams of natural timber to create a welcoming new dining space with elegant banquets lining the back walls.
‘The views are captured in the new restaurant design, bringing the outside in with a palette of colours of the sea. This unique sense of place had to be used in all the elements of the design and we needed to bring those beautiful colours and textures into the restaurant. This ranges from the white-tipped waves to teal and the deep blue of the sea, framed by the colours of the mountains and warmed by the shades of sand, changing from wet to dry’, she says.
The floor is a mix of wet sand and white checkerboard colour, accented with terracotta, sand and deep teal blue tile colours – the patterned tiles creating warmth, layering, interest and a relaxed mood. This warm checkerboard layout sets the scene for the rich and intricate mix of patterned and plain fabrics in rich deep blues, vibrant iridescent blues and clean and delicate turquoise, mixed up with an uplighting acid lime yellow. The feature centrepiece of the restaurant is a display of custom designed, handmade ceramic pendants inspired by shell sea creatures in kaleidoscope of colours, from the iridescent trademark blue to the soft sludgy teal green of the sea on an overcast day. These richly layered elements are a focal point against the inspiring backdrop of artist Tiziana Giardini’s bold, hand-painted mural on the two feature walls. The mural comes to life at night especially, when darkness drops over the bay, and it shimmers and glows, bringing the spectacular view from the restaurant to life.
The CEO of The Liz McGrath Collection, Jacqui Elliott summarizes: ‘Colourful, whimsical, elegant, sophisticated yet approachable. Amelia’s at The Plettenberg is a warm, intimate, yet bold new restaurant space that invites diners to linger longer while savouring a delicious meal and enjoying the spectacular view. Tronette Dippenaar, the Executive Chef of The Liz McGrath Collection and her team at The Plettenberg bring to the table an exciting new menu that is an exploration of flavours, from seafood and grills, to the classics, including a fresh take on our signature dishes. We are proud to introduce this inspiring, light and modern restaurant that is perfectly aligned with the barefoot luxury our guests know and love The Plettenberg for.’
Part of the The Liz McGrath Collection, The Plettenberg is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The 5-star hotel features two swimming pools, a spa and a gym, and 37 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including two spectacular Villas and 12 Suites, many with breathtaking sea views.
About The Plettenberg
The Plettenberg, part of The Liz McGrath Collection, is situated on a rocky headland in one of South Africa’s most spectacular beach towns. Tucked neatly into the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay boasts a year-round temperate climate, pristine beaches and dense green forests, as well as a burgeoning wine route, making it the ultimate South African seaside escape.
The 5-star Small Luxury Hotels of the World property has direct beach access and showcase some of the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, with views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand. The hotel features 37 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including 12 Suites and two spectacular Villas.
Guests are invited to indulge in world-class cuisine in the restaurant, Amelia’s at The Plettenberg, where deliciously fresh dishes are served in a vibrant and mesmerizing seaside setting. Relax in the Summer Lounge or on the Terrace with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee, or head to the Sandbar for a glass of wine, or meticulously crafted signature cocktails, or pre- or post-dinner drinks. Enjoy a workout in the gym, laze around one of the two swimming pools with their stunning sea views, or get pampered at the Fresh Wellness Spa. Whether you are looking for a romantic seaside escape or an action-packed family holiday, The Plettenberg is the ideal place to relax, unwind and recharge.
THE PLETTENBERG
Tel: +27 44 533 2030
Email: reservations@collectionmcgrath.com
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About The Liz McGrath Collection
The Liz McGrath Collection comprises The Cellars-Hohenort, The Marine, and The Plettenberg – three iconic hotels that are proud members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Each of the three 5-star hotels boasts a unique location, mesmerising history, splendid design, and amenities and services that are second to none. The Collection features individually designed, sophisticated interiors, the most luxurious accommodations, award-winning gardens and world-class cuisine to exemplify South African hospitality.