Luring Luxury Brands

The growing number of high-net-worth individuals in Africa offers a compelling opportunity for proprietors of luxurious brands seeking new markets.

The spate of oil and gas discoveries on the continent is fuelling economic growth and spawning a set of super-wealthy individuals with expensive taste in countries such as Nigeria, Angola, Ghana and Mozambique. According to Capgemini’s World Wealth Report 2012, the total investable wealth of high-net-worth individuals in Africa totalled $1.1-trillion by 2011.

Michael Lieblich, a contributing analyst at Euromonitor International, said with growth slowing in India and China, it was essential that other markets were explored. "As with any industry, being the first to offer a brand offers the opportunity to gain the much-coveted first-mover advantage," he said.

The rise of luxury travel on and to the African continent, and how safari tourism has moved upmarket. Read more...

With 60%, or about 71,000, of Africa’s millionaires in South Africa, the country has the continent’s most developed luxury retail sector. Late last year, global consultancy Bain said South Africa’s luxury goods market was expected to grow between 20% and 30% over the next five years.

Apart from South Africa’s affluent, rising fortunes in other African countries have also contributed to the sales uptick of luxury goods and services, as big spenders flock to boutiques in Johannesburg and Cape Town because their home markets are still comparatively small.

Claudia D’Arpizio, a Bain partner in Milan, said South Africa would continue to attract international brands, and the potential for luxury players elsewhere on the continent was "big". Despite the complexities of doing business, logistical risks and the lack of suitable real estate, opportunities in Africa are still proving tempting for yield-hungry investors.

Bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and luxury, high-end African brands are out to make a global impression. Read more...

 

Ermenegildo Zegna, which the makes made-to-measure suits worn by Hollywood stars Tom Cruise and Robert De Niro, will open a store in Nigeria this year. German fashion house Hugo Boss already has a presence in several countries including Nigeria, Mozambique, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa. Other luxury players such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Fendi, Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo have stores in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

However, the upmarket trappings favoured by African consumers are not limited to clothing, handbags and "bling" — spending lavishly on alcohol and fast cars is also on the rise.

In 2011, Nigerians drank 752,879 bottles of bubbly, more than were consumed in Russia or Mexico, according to Euromonitor International. That made Nigeria, where most people live on less than $2 a day, the 17th-biggest market for champagne in the world. Porsche opened its first Nigerian dealership in Lagos this month. It also plans to open in the capital, Abuja.

Read more at Business Day

Cape Town's Iconic Gold Restaurant

The new venue is spread out over a number of floors; from the ground floor Ashanti Room, ascending into the Timbuktu and Kenyan rooms, and up to the Gallery, (featuring a collection of authentic African pieces) and the Kente room, so called thanks to its extensive use of the traditional cloth. The secluded rooftop garden has an evocative Moroccan theme.

The multiple award-winning, African–inspired GOLD Restaurant, has moved from its previous Strand Street premises to Greenpoint’s Bennet Street Venue. Previously home to Trinity nightclub, this new venue is a multi- functional space, close to The Foundry, and the Victoria Junction Hotel.

The moody, softly lit rooms juxtapose raw building elements such as exposed brick and timber beams with slick contemporary finishes and subtle architectural details, resulting in a dramatic backdrop for the ‘new’ GOLD Restaurant.

Says co-owner Jan van Huyssteen, “Our lease at our old premises was coming to an end and the venue had felt limiting for a while now, so when this opportunity come up we grabbed the chance to reinvent ourselves.” The result is a sexier, moodier GOLD Restaurant that is as impressive to whimsical locals as it is to travelers looking for a trusted authentic African experience in the middle of Cape Town.

GOLD is one of the few Cape Town restaurants that can accommodate small, intimate functions in its various dining areas, but can also accommodate 250 seated. With the use of the adjoining Bennett Street space, this number can be increased to 550 (seated), and 1000 cocktail style. As such, GOLD is a favourite with FI.T.’s (foreign independent travelers), hotel concierges, guest houses, event organizers, incentive houses, tour operators and corporate clients.

Despite no longer sharing premises with the Gold of Africa Museum, the GOLD Restaurant has a treasure trove of collectables that forms part of the décor experience. Unusual items include a multi-coloured beaded tunic from Chad, Fulani earrings from Mali, original Kenyan beaded collars and Nigerian bronze and cuffs, an Ashanti stool, gold-leafed Fulani calabash lights and Dogon doors.

From the commencement of the evening with interactive Djembe drumming, to the ritual hand-washing and a multi-course gourmet feast, guests journey through a menu of African sounds, sights and flavours. Cuisine ranges from Cape Malay to North African with many influences in between. The evening also features authentic live entertainment in the form of dancing Malian puppets, singers, dancers and musicians that perform in each dining area. A final performance by the entertainers and staff lets one feel the African heartbeat.

GOLD employs upward of 55 staff, and is proudly affirmative. Says co-owner Cindy Muller; “We involve everyone in the business decisions so all our staff feel accountable for doing their bit. Our management approach is inclusive and non-discriminatory but we demand the best of the best and focus on exacting attention to detail.”

It’s a philosophy that has made GOLD a thriving host over the years, entertaining celebrities, politicians, dignitaries and countless international visitors. But it’s also an absorbing experience for locals, especially as the food is Halaal. The new venue further extends the opportunity to utilize the experience for company gatherings, celebrations and corporate launches but is also at ease for a memorable dinner for two.

GOLD RESTAURANT HIGHLIGHTS

• Four times American Express Fine Dining Award winners (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013)
• Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award 2012
• On the Top 10 recommended restaurants list at most leading hotels in Cape Town.
• Chosen venue to launch the Timbuktu Manuscripts
• Host of the World Design Capital selection committee gala dinner in 2011
• Powered by an all-woman kitchen
• Subject of a Cooked in Africa episode with Justin Bonello on BBC Lifestyle - 2011 

 

GOLD Restaurant

15 Bennett Street, Greenpoint, Cape Town

021 421 4653 

www.GOLDrestaurant.co.za

The African Passion - A Gospel Opera

The world premiere of an exciting brand-new, original gospel opera

The African Passion

Baxter Main Theatre, Cape Town

Thursday 28 March at 8pm

This world premiere brings the Passion of Christ to life in a musical featuring original, innovative gospel-inspired songs. The story is based on the Gospel according to St John and will be a choral masterwork featuring close to a hundred voices on stage in every city. The tour begins in Durban and then moves respectively to Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, Soweto, Johannesburg, Mafeking and then back to Durban.

Featuring

Bonginkhosi ‘Faca’ Kulu as Jesus

Natalia da Rocha as his mother Mary

Sharon Dee as Mary Magdalene

Grant Jacobs as Simon Peter

Dewaldt Von Solms as Pontius Pilate

Caitlin Kilburn as Pilate’s wife

Blessing Xaba as Caiaphas

Aubrey Lodewyk as Annas

And a host of other superb singers featuring the isicathamiya group Young Mbazo. And a 60-strong local choir, the Shekinah Full Gospel Church Choir.

The libretto is written by Themi Venturas and the music is composed by Phelelani Mnomiya (celebrated and award-winning gospel choral composer) Anthony Govender (of Destiny Music) and the Young Mbazo (grandchildren of world-renown accapella group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo) and is the perfect way to celebrate Easter this year.

Under the direction of Themi Venturas the show features Bonginkhosi ‘Faca’ Kulu (The Lion King in New York) as Jesus, Natalia da Rocha (original Natasha in Jimbo) as his mother Mary, Sharon Dee as Mary Magdalene, Grant Jacobs (Durban actor now based in Cape Town) as Simon Peter, Dewaldt Von Solms (of the popular singing duo Von West) as Pontius Pilate, Caitlin Kilburn (remembered for her stellar performance as Aldonza in Man of La Mancha) as Pilate’s wife, Blessing Xaba (seen as Fatty in the movie of John van de Ruit’s Spud) as Caiaphas, Aubrey Lodewyk (last seen in Handel’s Messiah and the Mandela Trilogy) as Annas and a host of other superb singers featuring the isicathamiya group Young Mbazo.


The cast of 21 are supplemented in each centre throughout SA by a 60-strong local choir: the Umlazi Oasis Church Choir and the Clermont Choir in Durban; the Transnet Port Terminals and Bella Voce Choirs in PE; the Shekinah Full Gospel Church Choir in Cape Town; the University of Johannesburg Choir in Soweto and Jo’burg and the Moses Reid Memorial Choir in Mafeking.

The African Passion plays out against a spectacular audio-visual background using the latest in modern AV technology in costumes designed by Nompumelelo Mkhize. Choreography is by Daisy Spencer and vocal direction by Desireé Govender. Bookings are at Computicket throughout SA except for at the Jo’burg theatre – booking is through http://www.joburgtheatre.com/ Jo’burg Theatre ticketing call centre - 0861 670 670

The African Passion is produced by Catalina UnLtd in Durban has been funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund.

Charities, churches and fundraisers are encouraged to use the show to raise funds for their organisations. Those interested should contact the national sales manager of The African Passion, Ailsa Windsor on 083 250 2690 or editor.goingplacessa@gmail.com.

The tour takes place as follows:

28 – 31 March Baxter Main Theatre, Cape Town (5 Perfs)

Thurs @ 20h00, Sat @ 14h00 & 20h00, Sun @ 14h00 & 18h30

Tickets R125 @ Computicket

5 – 7 April Soweto Theatre, Johannesburg (5 Perfs)

Fri @ 19h00, Sat @ 14h00 & 19h00, Sun @ 14h00 & 18h00

Tickets R130 @ Computicket

11 – 14 April Jo’burg Theatre, Johannesburg (5 Perfs)

Thurs & Fri @ 19h00, Sat @ 14h00 & 19h00, Sun @ 14h00

Tickets from R100. Ticketing call centre - 0861 670 670

18 – 21 April Mmabatho Civic Centre, Mafikeng (4 Perfs)

Thurs & Fri @ 19h00, Sat @19h00, Sun @ 14h00

Tickets R130 @ Computicket

26 – 28 April City Hall, Durban (4 Perfs) To Be Confirmed

Fri @ 19h00, Sat @ 19h00, Sun @ 14h00& 18h00

Tickets R130 @ Computicket To Be Confirmed

Gucci Women’s Autumn/Winter Collection

The Gucci woman seduces with a dangerous femininity.  Juxtaposing a demure silhouette inspired by couture, with a subversive undertone. Elegant shapes, outlined in strong, signature Gucci materials, are contrasted with accessories inspired by the fetish aesthetics of Allen Jones. A noir atmosphere saturated by colour, envisioned on exclusive textiles and details.

“She is steely yet sexy – defining her discipline with femme fatale vices.” explains Creative Director Frida Giannini. “She wears sculpted dresses with pure graphics, all the while alluding to devious touches.” The models and makeup are reminiscent of Luc Besson's The Fifth Element complementing Gucci's extraordinary accessories in an out of this world collection.

The silhouette is constructed, while the perfection of couture lines is applied to ready-to-wear. Powerful and body conscious, the new tailleur with skirt was introduced. Jackets are caban style or small, either with softly egg-shaped shoulders or definition. The pencil skirt is meticulously below the knee but reveals an unexpected slit. Worn high for a new, delicate take on the waistline.

The little black dress inspires new interpretations, up to the neck or open to show the collar bone. Either embracing the body and employing strategic leather inserts or cut on the bias for languid lines in shiny satin. The coat takes on the form-fitting shapes of a bustier, recalling a robe-manteau.

The oversized overcoat is the only nod to the male wardrobe in a self-indulgingly ladylike collection. Even pants are feminine with tapering and short lengths. Sexy, irreverent touches finish each look: from t-shirts in leather and python to gloves and the collection’s leitmotif, fishnet tights with a back seam on every look.

The colour palette is purple wine, rust, moss green and cerulean blue tainting black. A wise and novel use of materials and treatments makes each piece precious; leather, both smooth and cracklé, patent, python, pony skin, Astrakhan, silk, bouclé, lace and wool, reworkings of pied de poule and Prince of Wales with shading and even lurex threading.

Evoking chinoiserie, tapestry effects with three-dimensional fern leaves see woven metallics interrupting the black dresses, tailleur and outerwear. A cape in goat hair with shading from black to green embellishes an Astrakhan skirt suit.

Every facet of evening, from the t-shirt and skirt to the pairing of pants and tops, through to cocktail dresses and evening gowns are cinematic. A black-out of lace followed by an outburst of color. Ethereal looks with netting and satin, embroidered with feathers, studding, and sequins – intersecting punk with couture.

The accessories are femme fatale. Shiny calfskin and exotic skins. Python and crocodile. Black or monochromatic. Structured bags with archival luggage locks for a retro hint. The iconic Bamboo handle characterizes a new style in two proportions. Booties, boots and sandals, all with sharp high heels, for a touch of fetish. By day, necklaces recalling willow leaves, along with leather lock cuffs. For evening, cuffs adorned with colorful stones evoking the nuances of the embroideries.

Gucci is available exclusively at GUCCI Boutiques in Cape Town and Johannesburg in Southern Africa. For further information please contact their stores on 021-421 8800 (V&A Waterfront, Cape Town) or 011-784 2597 (Nelson Mandela Square, Johannesburg) or visit www.gucci.com

Emirates - Hello Tomorrow

One of the fastest growing airlines in the world, now has even more affordable economy fares from South Africa creating the perfect excuse for that well deserved holiday to that dream destination. The fares will apply from all Emirates gateways in the country i.e. Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.

The attractive fares see return economy class tickets to Mumbai starting from R5720, to Amsterdam from R6,857, from R6,971 to London and Paris from R7,226. The fares apply to all 132 destinations across the Emirates network, making your dream destination a lot more affordable with value for money fares all year round.

Enjoy Premium Travel with Emirates Boeing 777-300ER 
 

Emirates’ new global brand platform called “Hello Tomorrow” offers a new brand promise – connecting people and cultures to create meaningful experiences. Emirates’ extensive network offers travellers connectivity to some of the world’s best cities through the main travel hub of Dubai. “Hello” is a universal greeting and Emirates is extending an invitation to all travellers, business or leisure, to a new place where Tomorrow holds the promise of a new experience, memories and destination.

Through making travel more affordable with these value for money fares, Emirates hopes to quench the South African thirst for travel, taking South Africans to exciting destinations in Europe, the Far East, Americas and Australia, that will create new conversations and memories.

Explore more with Emirates Holidays - A World of Choice

Airline travel lost much of its allure in recent years as recessionary pressures dictated the direction airlines took in terms of in-flight services, fares and the overall experience. Fouad Caunhye, Emirates' Regional Manager, Southern Africa says, “Our year-round low fares are about freedom, about giving our customers an opportunity to choose their holiday destinations at a time convenient to them.”
Mr Caunhye adds, “Travellers on Emirates are already used to our award-winning service and passenger comforts, offering up to 1,400 channels of movies, television programmes, music and games, the ability to send and receive emails and text messages, meals prepared by gourmet chefs and superior service from the airline’s international cabin crew recruited from over 130 countries.” Emirates also takes the worry out of doing a little shopping by offering Economy Class passengers a generous luggage allowance of 30kg.

“The value of flying Emirates is obvious; with our affordable fares we are bringing back the excitement of holidays and air travel.” The airline currently has a fleet of 198 aircraft, including the world’s largest Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 fleet, and flies to 132 destinations.

Please visit www.emirates.com/za for details.

About Emirates

Emirates is one of the world’s fastest growing airlines. With a fleet of nearly 200 fuel efficient aircraft, the multi-award winning carrier flies to 132 destinations. In 2012, Emirates launched a host of exciting new destinations; Dublin, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Dallas Fort Worth, Seattle, Lusaka, Harare, Ho Chi Minh City, Barcelona, Lisbon, Erbil, Washington DC, Adelaide, Lyon and Phuket. Warsaw and Algiers also recently joined the Emirates’ network. In February this year, Emirates’ ambitious expansion plans are being supported by the opening of the world’s first purpose-built A380 concourse at Dubai International Airport.

The First Ever International Luxury Travel Market Africa

The launch of the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Africa, Cape Town, the first event of its kind on the African continent kicks off with the ILTM Africa Opening Forum – a live debate led by some of Africa’s leading industry figures who will discuss the rise of luxury travel, the issues that this has brought to the continent, and how safari tourism has moved upmarket.

With overwhelming support from luxury travel experiences across the African continent and fully booked with 70 participants, all of whom represent the most authentic and diverse range of elite travel products and services. Many of these participants will be exhibiting at a trade show for the first time and will join Hosted Buyers who also have not attended an event of this kind in Africa before – 37% of these will attend an ILTM event for the first time.

Visit Africa Travel Week in 2014

The Forum, facilitated by international African Travel Writer, Graham Boynton will take place before the show opens on Monday 8th April at the Mount Nelson Hotel, the venue for the ILTM Africa showcase. The first day of ILTM Africa 2013 culminates in a Gala Dinner hosted by the Cellars Hohenort.

The forum will be in two parts and starts with Minister Alan Winde, Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism for the Western Cape Government, who will give an insight into the infrastructure and tourism assets of his region and beyond. Followed by South African author Clem Sunter, focusing on Africa’s economic and political health.

Boynton will then facilitate a lively debate on “The Issues Facing The Luxury Travel Market” looking at perception vs reality – how the outside world sees Africa - and the impact of recent changes that have taken place in the market, plus how the luxury African product has evolved and the key issue of intra-country air connections. Taking part will be Tony Romer Lee – CEO, The Collection by Liz McGrath; Adrian Gardiner – Founder & CEO, Mantis Group and Beks Ndlovu – CEO, African Bush Camps.

ILTM’s Exhibition Director, Alison Gilmore commented: “The point of the ILTM forum concept is to kick off an event with some content and debate that gives all our participants – exhibitors and hosted buyers – real insights into trends, issues and successes of the host country as well as some thought provoking take-aways to begin their two days of business.

We are delighted to welcome Minister Alan Winde and of course such an influential line up of speakers for what is bound to be a lively and enlightening debate that will also give the audience the opportunity to ask their own questions from those that are directly involved in the industry luxury tourism”.

The inaugural ILTM Africa 2013 the first invitation only event in Africa to showcase 70 exclusively African travel experiences who will meet with 70 international Hosted Buyers, dedicated to creating and planning luxury travel inbound to Africa.

Business appointments are pre-scheduled, matching mutual requests from buyers and exhibitors alike to meet on a strict one-to-one ratio. Following the traditional ILTM format, both buyers and exhibitors must follow a strict accreditation process in order to participate.

For further information, please visit www.iltm.net/africa

 

ILTM Africa will host international VIP buyers from major markets including the USA, Europe and Brazil, each with a specialism in Africa, personally invited and verified to ensure their luxury travel credentials are of the highest standard. The event matches mutual requests from both buyers and exhibitors to meet on a one-to-one basis to build business opportunities and communities.

Muriel Minnell Falck, CEO & Executive Director of Argentina’s Sundance Tours, a specialist in Africa’s exotic destinations commented: “There are Africa luxury specialists all over the world who have long needed a dedicated forum at which to meet solely high end African product, from the established to the smaller, lesser-known brands. ILTM Africa is extremely promising and we are very much looking forward to being part of its launch in April and meet with exhibitors who would mutually benefit from forging new relationships.”

Like all other ILTM events, ILTM Africa will feature a detailed programme of social networking opportunities. In addition, the ILTM Africa Opening Forum will reflect both regional and global key luxury travel trends and issues, in a series of live interviews and debates.

Alison Gilmore, ILTM Exhibition Director said: “Our pre-event research was clearly extremely accurate - the overwhelming interest in ILTM Africa since we launched such a short time ago, shows just how much demand there is for an event that focuses exclusively on the high-end market.The global portfolio of ILTM events are about addressing the needs of both the buyers and suppliers and the response we have received will help ILTM Africa to grow in 2014.”

About ILTM

International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) and ILTM Asia are the leading annual business to business events for the global luxury travel community, bringing together the world’s most sought after destinations, ultra-luxurious accommodation, elite transportation and unique travel experiences showcased for the most discerning luxury travel buyer via an unrivalled pre-scheduled appointment system and effective networking and information opportunities.

ILTM – which invites only the most discerning buyers from across the world – takes place in Cannes, 2 - 5 December 2013; ILTM Asia – which selects buyers from across the Asia Pacific – takes place in Shanghai, 3 - 6 June 2013 and ILTM Americas – a one-to-one summit for travel agents from North, Central and South America – takes place at Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico, 30 September - 3 October 2013. A similar niche event ILTM Japan – inviting both Japanese and international buyers - launched 11 – 13 March 2013 in Kyoto; ILTM Africa will launch 8-9 April 2013 in Cape Town, South Africa profiling African product and inviting international buyers and ILTM Spa will take place in London from 30th September – 2nd October 2013.

Hennessy VSOP Kyrios

MEET A LEGEND

This year, Hennessy Cognac is proud to announce the launch of the new collector edition bottle, Kyrios, the key to unlock the codes of the legendary world of Hennessy V.SO.P. As a tribute to the brands history and origin in 1817, the V.S.O.P bottle is presented with a stylish new matte carbon covering and unique codes which tell its rich story.

Every aspect of this exceptional collector’s bottle has a significant connotation – starting with the 3D label, adorned with 1817, giving the impression that the date is inside the bottle, an integral component of its beginning. A beginning which dates back centuries when a request was made by the future king of England, George IV for ‘Very Superior Old Pale Cognac’.

The codes extend to the grapes, a symbol of the vineyards and grandeur of the House of Hennessy – clearly illustrating the ancestral savoir-faire, elaborate craftsmanship and the extreme care which is taken in the creation of this high-quality product.

Along with the new silhouette, launched last year by esteemed automobile designer, Chris Bangle, the appearance of this limited edition bottle takes on two dimensions with its startling carbon-grey colour. First of which is the technical dimension, currently used in the automobile industry for fast concept cars and secondly an artistic dimension.

The copper appearance used in the label design is a reminder of the pot stills, a deep tint which evokes centuries of distillation, adding more elegance and style to the carafe. Lastly, the emblematic ‘bras armé’ reflects the long history of Hennessy, an essential part of the seal for more than two centuries. Now engraved in the glass, it highlights the constant search of quality.

Within the sophisticated Kyrios bottle, the Hennessy V.S.O.P Cognac has remained unchanged. Recognised for its harmonious and well-structured blend, it is characterised by its gradual blend of about 60 eaux-de-vie taken from the four best growing areas in the Cognac region, slowly matured in old barrels from which most of the tannin has been extracted.

With well-loved aromas, balance and long lasting finish, Hennessy V.S.O.P easily matches every tasting occasion, either enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in a refined cocktail. 

http://www.facebook.com/Hennessy

http://www.hennessy.com/hennessy-vsop

Jenni Button Couture Summer 2013 Collection

Adding Glamour to the 2013 events season. The Jenni Button woman is sensual, strong and independent and celebrates all that is glamorous.

Focusing on sensual modern cuts and shapes to suit the strong independent woman, the Jenni woman’s insatiable love of glamour, opulence and pleasure find its ultimate expression in the Jenni Button Coutureline.

Inspired by the golden sand dunes of Morocco, white Bedouin tents, glass mosaics and soft silk curtains blowing in the breeze of a Marrakesh Summer, Jenni Button’s Summer 2013 Collection is sizzling hot. Creative Director, Warrick Gautier, uses only the finest silks, embroidery, embellishment, and beading in the range’s Couture line. French metallic laces and long flowy dresses in silk chiffon and rich satins are seen throughout.

Jenni Button, synonymous with glamour, elegance and sophistication takes the Couture Collection to exciting new heights this season, whether one-off pieces for formal evening wear occasions, beaded cocktail dresses for glamorous parties or even wedding dresses. Always reinventing, Jenni Button has become the benchmark of luxury in South Africa and are regularly flaunted by a host of A-list celebrities. 

View Jenni Button Couture at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Masters 2013

Jenni Button Couture is available at their exclusive Couture stores located in Hyde Park, Sandton City, Cavendish Square and Gateway. Selected pieces are also available in their other 9 stores nationwide. Their Cape Town Studio also provides one-on-one appointments for bespoke services. For more info, call Jenni Button’s studio on 021 461 1207.

Visit their Facebook page on https://www.facebook.com/JenniButtonSA

Stellar Cuisine at Shimmy Beach Club

STELLAR SHIMMY CUISINE

From the kitchen of Chef Seelan Sundoo

On the edge of the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town, from the kitchen of celebrated culinary master, Seelan Sundoo, Shimmy Beach Club’s menu presents a stellar array of gastronomic offerings set to delight the most discerning of pallets.

With a fun dining approach to food and a wide selection of fresh seafood, tender steaks and high quality meat options, as well as mouthwatering sushi and gourmet, wood-fired pizzas, Shimmy not only caters for groups of friends with eclectic tastes but is also the perfect venue for an intimate lunch or sumptuous dinner for two. 

Over the years, Seelan Sundoo’s name has become synonymous with quality dining in Cape Town, having learnt how to cook in his mother’s kitchen and then perfecting his craft in some of the city’s most renowned restaurants.

Using fresh, locally produced and organic ingredients, the dishes on Shimmy Beach Club’s menu are comfortable yet sophisticated and create the perfect balance between simple & and elaborate with Seelan’s signature dose of Italian, French and Asian influences expertly combined with the flavours of the Cape.

“We decided to offer a large menu with a lot of different choices to accommodate all tastes, making Shimmy Beach Club a venue where you can try something new each time and enjoy long lunches as well as lavish dinners with friends,” says chef Seelan Sundoo.

In turn, Shimmy offers the freshest and most decadent seafood including extraordinary platters, oysters, langoustines, giant tiger prawns, a variety of line-fish and Seelan’s storied prawn curry. Fresh combinations of ginger, chilli, lemon, coconut cream and garlic flawlessly compliment the flavours of the seafood.

Selecting only the highest grade cuts of dry-aged beef, a refrigeration process which leaves the meat incredibly tender and concentrates the flavour of the beef, Shimmy’s steaks are grilled to perfection and served with a choice of thoughtfully combined herbs, truffle mayo, chimichurri, tagliata or a delectable smokey black pepper sauce.

For patrons looking for something out of the ordinary, Shimmy offers a variety of exotic dishes including duck ravioli with a delicately-balanced orange and ginger sauce, a perlemoen starter, delicious salads and top cuts of veal or springbok, flawlessly complimented by sides of sweet potato chips or fresh organic vegetables.

A highlight at Shimmy is the phenomenal sushi from the hands of master sushi chef, Yasuhiro Yoshimura who has spearheaded sushi at some of South Africa’s top sushi restaurants. A personal friend of Nobu Matsuhisa and consultant to Sol Kerzner’s restaurants, Yoshimura ensures that each order of sushi is expertly prepared using top quality ingredients.

Meanwhile, the wood-fired pizza oven cooks thin crusted gourmet pizzas to perfection and the small plate menu offers a collection of hamburgers and light meals.

For the calorie-conscious, Shimmy Beach Club has put together their “Skinny Liscious” menu which is available between 17h00 and 19h30 daily. The menu combines elements of the existing menu but allows patrons to stay within their calorie “budget” by stating how many calories are contained in each meal. Along with the sushi and pizza menu, the dishes on the “Skinny Liscious” menu can be ordered from the luxury of one of the Shimmy Beach Loungers.

Shimmy also caters for the younger generation with a set “Kids” menu and dedicated children’s play area complete with child minders, ensuring that everyone is catered for. In addition, Shimmy Beach Club also offers decadent desserts with hints of luxuriant chocolate, fresh cream, fruit and hints of spice as the ideal conclusion to any meal.

The panache does not however end on the plate, as located in the working harbour of the V&A Waterfront, on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Shimmy Beach Club offers a fusion of fun, elegant dining and beach chic.

“We have created Shimmy as a venue with an emphasis on fun dining – combining playful elements with the more traditional and elegant,” says chef Seelan Sundoo. “All in all, we cater for everyone and encourage people to come to Shimmy to enjoy themselves, relax and eat delicious, well constructed food.”

Influenced by some of the world’s most glamorous and fabulous entertainment venues, along with a spectacular location, private beach and expansive outside deck, Shimmy Beach Club is Cape Town’s newest, premier dining and lifestyle destination.

Shimmy Beach Club is located in South Arm Road, V&A Harbour Waterfront, Cape Town

www.facebook.com/ShimmyBeachClub

The White Club presents - A Wine Lovers Dream

The White Club and Parmigiani return to South Africa to host “A Wine Lovers Dream”: An exquisite evening of excellence with Domain de la Romanée-Conti

The White Club, an international wine and champagne private members club are hosting an exquisite journey of oenological excellence in Johannesburg and Cape Town this March.
 
Their presenting partner Parmigiani, the most luxurious watch brand in the world, is preparing to treat an exclusive group of 16 guests to a “once in a lifetime” experience with Domain de la Romanée-Conti, the most expensive wine in the world. Lalique, the worlds most beautifully designed crystal, glass and art, will also be co-hosting these magnificent Events.

Guests who attend the extravagant and extraordinary evenings will experience an unparalleled journey of the rarest and most legendary wines in the world. The events are to be held at “secret locations” to provide additional excitement and mystery for those privileged enough to attend, who will be collected by private car and driven to the location.

The Johannesburg event will be held on Thursday 21 March and the Cape Town event on Saturday 23 March. Principle wines that will be served at these events include Pétrus 1947, Château Cheval Blanc 1947, Château Latour 1958, Château Lafite Rothschild 1959 and Domain de la Romanée-Conti 1989, Le Montrachet 2007 and La Tâche 1962 amongst a total of 20 wines served.

The events will also include a “Culinary Chef's Challenge” that will create a competitive edge to the evening. Celebrated chefs will team up against each other, assisted by revered Sommeliers from the Country, to create their own seven-course gastronomical feast that will be paired with the illustrious wine list.

The Teams include Chef PJ Vadas from “Camphors”, the newly opened restaurant at Vergelegen Estate, assisted by Sommelier Luvo Ntezo from The One & Only Hotel and Christiaan Campbell from Delaire Graff assisted by Sommelier Manuel Cabello from Ellerman House. The Johannesburg teams will consist of Coco Reinharz from Sel et Poivre and Leanne Roberts and Charl Whitlock from De Waterkloof.

Malene Meisner, CEO, The White Club

Malene Meisner, CEO of The White Club, comments, “We wanted to create additional excitement and theatre around the events in South Africa this year. The secret locations and the culinary chefs challenge will create these added elements of enjoyment for our guests.”

Parmigiani, the most luxurious watch brand in the world, originating from Switzerland, partners The White Club events and links in well with the lavish lifestyle that this group has to offer. Guillaume Marx of Parmigiani speaks of their partnership: “Precision work is what lies between us as watch and wine lovers. It is what defines us. These similarities combined with a passion for the lavish and exclusive things in life are what make this partnership flourish.”

The White Club, which began “The World of First Growths” project in South Africa last year, will also be presenting semi-blind flights of Pinot Noirs including Hamilton Russell, Bouchard Finlayson and Creation wines against Domain de la Romanée-Conti. Glenelly Estate wines will also be included alongside Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande.

The chosen charity this year for The White Club and World of First Growth Events is the “Make a Difference” (M.A.D) charity pioneered by Francois Pienaar. A silent auction will be held on both evenings and all proceeds will be donated. This charity, created in 2003 aims to make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged academically talented young South Africans by creating exceptional educational opportunities.

For the chance to purchase one of these golden tickets the price tag is R25,000 (JHB) and R20,000 (CT). For ticket enquiries please contact Shelley Webb on +27 (072) 386 6527 / shelley@whiteroomsa.com

 

Veuve Clicquot Masters Polo 2013

THE THIRD ANNUAL VEUVE CLICQUOT MASTERS 2013 SETS THE BENCHMARK FOR GLAMOUR AND SOPHISTICATION.

The Masters polo tournament took place last Saturday, 23 February 2013  at the Val de Vie Polo Estate and proved, once again, to be one of the most sophisticated events on the South African social calendar.

The prestigious Champagne House sponsors some of the world’s leading polo events such as the Manhattan Classic, the LA Polo Classic and the UK’s Gold Cup as well as the Veuve Clicquot Masters Cape Town, their first and only on the African continent. 

Jenny Button Couture Collection

Enjoying near perfect weather on the day, crowds were entertained by musical act Magic Carpet Ride, a striking fashion show by Jenni Button Couture - Summer 2013 and Hilton Weiner and impromptu games of table tennis and pétanque on the grass.

Ritza Janse Van Rensburg

Jen Su and guest

Best Dressed Couple

Best Dressed competition judges Warrick Gautier, Creative Director for Jenni Button, celebrity reporter Jen Su, and representatives from Grazia magazine and BlackBerry awarded the best dressed prizes to Greta Scholtz (Best Dressed Female, dressed by Gavin Rajah) Matt Gerstner (Best Dressed Male) and Elrico Bellingan and Ritza van Rensburg (dressed by Ricci Janse van Rensburg),who won Best Dressed Couple on the day.

Tanya Van Graan and Kasper Kristoffersen

Andrew and Natalie Becker

Liezel van der Westhuizen

Some of the celebrity guests in the Veuve Clicquot VIP Lounge this year included Jeannie D, Jen Su, Bjorn Steinbach, Natalie Becker, Liezel van der Westhuizen, Tanya van Graan, Lee-Ann Williams, Mathew and Sonia Booth, Gerry Rantseli-Elsdon, and MC for the day, Top Billing presenter, Simba Mhere. 

Creative Director for Jenni Button and Hilton Weiner and MC Simba Mhere

Gretha Scholtz (Winner of Best Dressed Female) wearing Gavin Rajah

Matthew and Sonia Booth

Grant Paul Roy and Kelly Roy

The 2013 Veuve Clicquot Masters also attracted sponsorships by some of the world’s top brands, such as Bentley Motors, who was the official automobile partner for the event, BlackBerry, the official technology partner and Elizabeth Arden, the official beauty partner, who created a Pamper Lounge for all female guests to enjoy.

Media partners include a broadcast partnership with SABC 3 and Grazia as the magazine partner. Other significant brand partners on the day included Jenni Button and Hilton Weiner, who put on a showstopper of a fashion show, HaagenDasz, The Taj Hotel, Avantgarde, and Mango Airlines as the official airline partner for this year’s event.

Kerry Elsdon and Gerry Rantseli-Elsdon

With international commentator, Jamie Hayward, providing up to the minute play, the nail biting game will certainly become the stuff of local legend with Team Val de Vie beating out the crowd favourites Team Veuve Clicquot by 5 goals to 4 in the end.

The Veuve Clicquot Masters was a day not to be missed, and the 2014 event has already been diarized for Saturday the 1st of March 2014. For more information, visit the Veuve Clicquot Masters Facebook page.

Jeannie D

All images courtesy of Vivid Luxury