A Foodie Haven at The Four Seasons The Westcliff
We recently visited The Four Seasons The Westcliff for their Afternoon Tea at The View, extending the experience with dinner at Flames. We arrived just as the clock struck twelve and left way after the sun had set. It was a sunny afternoon and starry evening filled with culinary mastery and memorable moments, for sure.
A Royal Affair
The sun had reached its peak spot in the sky when we were led up the stairs to The Four Season’s The View restaurant. After being handed lemon-soaked towels to freshen up, we were treated to a welcome drink of homemade Iced Tea infused with mint leaves. Two-to-three-seater tables adorned the terrace overlooking the entirety of Joburg. Sandton’s skyscrapers were standing tall to the left whilst the Central Business District impressively danced in the midday light to our right. There we were, pondering how the City of Gold still had so many trees blooming with life.
Our host, Mbongeni Mahlangu was a delight, ensuring our experience was fit for royalty. Our champagne flutes were filled with Rosé Methode Cap Classique as we browsed the vast tea collection. We opted for The Four Seasons Speciality Blend and a Strawberry Rooibos creation. Then, glass teapots, heated from a tea light candle, were brought to the table. Soon enough we were brewing tea leaves. In the meantime, we indulged in mouthwatering, homemade scones with jam and Chantilly cream.
Thereafter, it was time for some savoury delights. The talented Chef Boity brought out her gourmet salmon arancini, egg and gherkin finger sandwiches and beetroot tartlets. Additionally, there were also phyllo pastry creations, bruschetta topped with cream cheese and sliced potato balls. We each had our own to try and whilst small in size, it was a filling course.
Finally, a variety of sweet treats came round. The cake stand was filled with berry and custard tarts, chocolate logs, pistachio mousse on biscuit bases, red velvet and strawberry cakes and generous slices of cinnamon milk tart.
As the afternoon wound down, we finished off our tea and bid the serene ambiance farewell.
Flamboyance at Flames
But, our day wasn’t over yet! Dinner under the stars awaited at Flames. It was a warm summer’s evening, so we opted for the outside seating area even though inside was just as vibrant. We had a view into the flame-inspired kitchen to our left and could hear the sound of cocktails being shaken to our right. Evidently, the culinary paradise had us anticipating an evening of delightful flavours.
With a glass of Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc each, we kicked off the second part of our Four Seasons experience. Paired with Crispy Patagonia Squid for starters, it instantly set the scene for a magical evening under the stars. Furthermore, the seafood starter was garnished with greens and bonito flakes, drizzled with charred lime dressing and miso mayonnaise.
Then, asking for a recommendation on the main course, we were steered towards the Flames Braai section on the menu. The Wagyu Beef is the flagship dish at Flames, sourced from the Silent Valley Farm in the Free State. With a rich umami flavour, it comes with the guarantee of perfect marbling, with a score of 8/9. Of course, we had to try the Beef Fillet and Ribeye Wagyu with hand cut fries, completed with a Mushroom Velouté on the side. It certainly did not disappoint!
With no room for dessert, we opted for Americanos instead, secretly eying the Lemon and Lime Cheesecake or the Almond Panna Cotta for next time.
Looking out over the city of Johannesburg, these two dining destinations afforded us a moment in time to truly appreciate the little things in life. Good company, delicious cuisine and spectacular scenery. We most certainly left with full stomachs and bursting hearts.
Images: Supplied/Victoria Hill
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