Working with interior designer, Lisa Bond of Porcupine Interior Architecture, the brief was to keep the original warmth and character of a family run country hotel. The dining area was looking tired and thus needed some fresh inspiration that was in keeping with the heritage of the hotel.
Existing beautiful old timber screen doors were moved forward to break the space and transformed the feeling of the dining area. New lighting illuminates the family portraits and historical paintings making them more alive and interesting.
Comments Lisa Bond; “All existing furniture had to be re-upholstered and in some cases re-furbished. The transformation of some of the old couches and chairs was quite astounding - one must never disregard old things - but rather uncover their beauty”.
The actual type of fabrics and prints were specially chosen to reflect the rambling country garden feeling with an added bit of shimmer in the velvets and violets to add a sense of grandeur to the dinner experience. Further says Lisa; “When working with a Heritage building, one has to choose colour, texture and fabrics to enhance the existing structure that remains unchanged but can be transformed such as the wonderful character of the restaurant's timber floors and window frames, the ancient glass panes and the beautiful timber beams”.
A new look calls for a new chef. The appointment of Simon Kemp is a natural progression of the hotel's brand extension and vision. Says General Manager, Brian Bowes; “Simon's experience in the art of fine dining made him the obvious choice for our intimate and internationally renowned restaurant. Our cuisine dates back to our historical roots and we aim to continue to provide guests with wholesome and flavoursome food that has a modern twist”.
With extensive culinary experience and a portfolio that includes working at prestigious establishments such as Simola Hotel, Golf, Country Club & Spa; Cape Town International Convention Centre; Hotel Le Vendome; Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and others, Simon has set himself the task of re-launching Cloete's onto the local and international culinary scene. Simon's responsibilities require him to oversee all food production, preside over all activities in the restaurant and manage the brigade in the bustling kitchen.
A seasoned traveller, Simon's culinary skills are influenced from his travels around Europe, drawing on a wealth of classic European cuisine mixed with a spicy dose of Eastern aromas, colours and textures. His food concentrates on simple flavours, light but refined sauces, fresh and exotic ingredients combining classic cuisine with contemporary trends and a splash of Asian and African flavours.
Fine dining has long been a tradition at Cloete's and the restaurant is renowned for its exceptional cuisine and menu that features contemporary South African food with a tantalising cosmopolitan influence. An extensive wine list is available with an exclusive selection dedicated to the Constantia Valley.
“Going back to the basics” is how Simon best describes his methodology. Meals are prepared from scratch, whilst herbs and vegetables are freshly sourced from the grounds of The Alphen. The task of carefully sourcing his own produce as well as growing the essentials, allows Simon to cater for long-term guests of The Alphen Country Hotel who are able to order their special meal preferences.
Dining at Cloete's incorporates a historical ambience that is colourfully blended with a modern twist. Simon's passion, flair and skill culminate in meals with robust flavours, interesting ingredients and generous portions. His daily menus incorporate the Cape's best local and seasonal produce in a relaxed, stylish and tranquil setting.
For further information contact the Alphen Country House Hotel on 021 794 5011 or visit www.alphenhotel.co.za. The Alphen Country House Hotel is part of the Queensgate Hotel & Leisure Group who are managing the hotel to restore it to its former glory.
