Champions of outstanding savoir faire, Relais & Châteaux properties are renowned for their refined hospitality and inventive cuisine. This professional excellence is embodied in Peter Tempelhoff, a celebrated member of Relais & Châteaux’s World Culinary Council and a chef with over 20 years of experience in Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux restaurants across the culinary capitals of the world, including Eleven Madison Park in New York City (3*), Le Pré Catelan in Paris (3*) and Arzak in San Sebastián (3*). Tempelhoff has taken the decision to embark on the next stage of his Relais & Châteaux journey at Ellerman House, where he has been appointed as Culinary Director and mentor to Executive Chef Grant Daniels and his talented team.
Tempelhoff provides a constant source of inspiration to the kitchen and a wealth of expertise. As the owner of FYN, his hugely successful urban fine dining eatery, he has his finger firmly on the pulse of Cape Town’s dynamic local food scene. In addition, Tempelhoff brings global vision from the World Culinary Council, a collection of 19 gourmands selected from over 560 Relais & Châteaux properties across the globe who set benchmarks in the industry for others to follow.
Strong local emphasis is a hallmark of Relais & Châteaux properties, which seek to promote the diversity of the world’s cuisine and hospitality traditions as well as protect the planet’s unique ingredients. Ellerman House Owner, Paul Harris says, “Peter’s food philosophy treasures, preserves and continually revives South Africa’s rich food heritage with contemporary flair. We know his influence is going to enhance our guests’ culinary experience beyond measure and allow us to express the individuality of Ellerman House”.
A passion for all things local is a value deeply engrained in Ellerman House’s culture and Tempelhoff plans to tailor the menu accordingly, “Ellerman House showcases the very best of South Africa – unparalleled service standards, inspiring food philosophies and authentic South African experiences which are constantly evolving. It’s the perfect space to embark on a new Relais & Châteaux role”.
Ellerman House provides the perfect platform to explore the Cape’s unique surroundings. “South Africa’s food culture inspires me daily and guests can expect to be taken on a delicious journey through our country’s landscape,” he adds.
Tempelhoff has meticululously crafted a new menu at Ellerman House and is working on an exclusive dining experience, launching soon in the Wine Gallery. With new dishes such as ‘Karoo lamb with sweetbreads, Parmesan pap, spekboom and pickled honey, gremolata and jus gras’, guests at this luxury boutique hotel in Cape Town can expect a re-imagined culinary vision that continues to celebrate the very best of South Africa, while subtly infused with flavours from abroad.