The Palace of the Lost City, long revered for its grandeur and mythical charm, has taken its dining offering to unprecedented heights through an extraordinary partnership with Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. This marks a new era for its iconic Crystal Court, blending royal opulence with cutting-edge culinary innovation.
Internationally celebrated for his flair in curating immersive, hyper-personalised experiences, Chef Jan—South Africa’s first chef to receive a Michelin star—now brings his world-class vision to one of Africa’s most legendary hotels.
From Lost Ingredients to Legendary Flavours
At the heart of this partnership lies a reverence for South Africa’s rich food heritage. The rejuvenated Crystal Court reintroduces guests to a forgotten pantry of indigenous ingredients through the theme: ‘The lost ingredients at the Lost City.’
Expect unexpected flavours from:
- Amaranth, a powerhouse ancient grain
- Jew’s Mallow, Cleome, and Blackjack, traditional leafy greens with exceptional nutritional value
- Bambara Groundnut and Cowpea, resilient legumes with deep African roots
These ingredients are reinterpreted through JAN’s refined culinary lens, resulting in dishes that are deeply local, boldly inventive, and elegantly plated.
Spotlight on South Africa’s Golden Staple
The first chapter of this culinary revival begins with heirloom corn and maize, cornerstones of local cuisine. Introduced to the region in the 1600’s, maize has fed generations and defined cultures. At the Crystal Court, it now ascends to a gourmet pedestal.
Chef Jan showcases the versatility of this ingredient—from comforting pap to avant-garde compositions, celebrating its health benefits, historical significance, and cultural soul.
A Multi-Million Rand Transformation
More than just a menu change, this partnership is part of a R30-million revamp of the Crystal Court. Now seating 218 guests, the space marries architectural grandeur with contemporary grace, creating an atmosphere of timeless luxury.
It’s just the beginning. Over the next 18 months, JAN’s culinary vision will extend to the Tusk Bar, Pool Deck, and in-room dining, redefining every gastronomic touchpoint at The Palace.
A Vision of Seven-Star Dining
‘By consulting one of the country’s most creative and applauded chefs, we finally achieve the original vision of our founder, the late Sol Kerzner, to offer a seven-star dining experience,’ says Brett Hoppé, General Manager of Sun City.
The partnership launched with the reimagined Crystal Court breakfast experience in November 2024, just in time to welcome guests for the prestigious Nedbank Golf Challenge. Since then, rave reviews have echoed across the luxury travel and gastronomy landscape.
Where Storytelling, Cuisine, and Royal Comfort Meet
From guests arriving for world-class golf to couples on once-in-a-lifetime getaways, The Palace now offers not just opulence—but meaningful, memorable, Michelin-worthy meals.
‘Our focus is on authenticity, personalisation, and the beauty of detail,” says Chef Jan. “We want every moment to feel like pure delight.’
Whether you’re dreaming of a gourmet escape at The Palace or a fully hosted journey across Southern Africa, we’ll curate every detail to perfection, from seamless transfers to exquisite stays.
Email: info@thompsonsafrica.com
Tel: +27 31 275 3500
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