Feature dine
creativity that has gathered Chef Jacques his loyal
following of design- and food-obsessed fans. His is not
a static style. Nor is it the result of the whims of a man
unable to make up his mind. His creative expression is a
fluid fluctuation of mood and time. At Hemelhuijs there is
an unspoken, constant invitation to return again and again,
and to be inspired anew with each visit.
The menu is sophisticated and authentic. While
beautifully presented on an array of handmade and
precious crockery, there is no pretention, only elegant
simplicity and a sincere regard and respect for food.
Chef Jacques’ Gold Collection Tableware is another
striking feature of the establishment. Based on the Bone
Collection (which was inspired by the matt tones of
slaked lime and bleached bone), the Gold Collection uses
a pure gold compound and undergoes five firings in a
kiln. It is the most opulent of all Chef Jacques’ tableware
collections. Inspired by his fascination with the mythical
stories of heroes, kings, fairytales, and the godly beliefs of
the Egyptians and ancient Sumerians, the vessels embody
a lively imagination.
The alchemy of Hemelhuijs takes place when a
childhood favourite of soft mieliepap is simply served
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with orange blossom honey and salted butter – in a gold
bowl. When the heat of the porridge melts the butter
and honey and the reflection of the bowl causes it to
look like tiny rivers of gold flowing around the porridge.
It has all the elements of magic you once believed in as
a child. This dish has become a talking point for all the
right reasons. Only a chef confident in his craft would
present an ingredient of such apparent ordinariness with
such simplicity. But Chef Jacques knows when to let
ingredients speak for themselves. For him cooking is not
about outsmarting his guests. It is about bringing them
joy. This is just one of many such examples of magic
created through culinary confidence, simplicity, and a
touch of creative genius.
The name Hemelhuijs has become synonymous with
indulgence. Every visit is a feast of some sort - whether
it be the discovery of new flavour combinations, the
visual delight of the surroundings, or simply the luxury of
drinking something warm from a beautifully handcrafted
cup. In a world that is far too rushed and far too drab, a
visit to Hemelhuijs will remind you that beauty and magic
are in fact all around us.
For more information visit www.hemelhuijs.co.za.