Spring 2016
Quills Restaurant
Intercontinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport
Johannesburg, South Africa
Although I was staying at the 5-star, award-winning Intercontinental hotel that evening, I wasn't expecting their hotel restaurant, Quills, to be my favourite place to dine in my short stay to Johannesburg and area.
- Continental breakfast buffet was large enough to encourage you to go up for seconds, but everything was displayed beautifully and in small portions.
- Service was quick, friendly and helpful. An empty coffee cup is replaced for a full one upon request instead of the table side "top-up".
- Lunch was well-seasoned, well-plated and generous portions.
- Wine selections were local and varied.
FAV item? Spring pea risotto with feta
Spring pea risotto with feta
The Butcher Shop and Grill
Shop 30 Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton
Johannesburg, South Africa
Black mushrooms au gratin
I noticed this restaurant mentioned in the hotel's in-room city guide as a must-visit restaurant in the area.
Located in the popular Nelson Mandela Square just outside the Sandton Gautrain station, it is a very large focal point at the Square's entrance.
It has a butcher onsite for take-home, a deli and a dining area able to seat 600 guests.
Beef dinner with sides
- Our server was quiet and VERY attentive. Since we arrived without a reservation around 5:30pm, it was very quiet and he was quick to accommodate to our every need or request.
- For such a large restaurant with so many meat choices, the menu was surprisingly concise and easy to navigate. Meats are separated into their own categories, optional side dishes are separate, starters and drinks on their own.
- The wine list, as well, was large but not unrealistic. I had the pleasure of a guided tour with Isaac (He is SUCH a charmer!) through their stunning cellar and the collection they have curated are the best of South Africa and more.
- Portion sizes were reasonable, which was a pleasant surprise. Accompanying sides were served in separate dishes in the middle of the table for sharing and were just enough to get a good sample of each per guest...IF you are willing to share.
- Beef is their claim to fame, so the rib eye was a must-order for me. It was well-seasoned and flavourful.
FAV item? Rib eye...without a doubt.
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