The World’s 50 Best Restaurants Accolade for Hartford House

“South Africa is known for its unlimited natural beauty, alluring landscapes and striking city architecture. Idyllic green interiors, a wild coastline and impressive mountain ranges steal a visitor’s attention. From a dining perspective, many restaurants offer both fine plates and the sensory delight of being surrounded by nature, the fizz of big city life or the quaint pleasure of remote living. ”

Hartford House

Hlatikulu Road, Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Situated on the Summerhill Stud farm in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Hartford House is one of the country’s top fine dining restaurants. Benefiting from an extensive list of small local suppliers for dairy, beef, herbs and vegetables, chef Constantijn Hahndiek has created a five-course dinner menu that is an ode to the region. Think Indezi cheese, local trout, butter-soft beef and rich crispy duck. Hahndiek and the front of house manager are actively involved in explaining the details of the menu, which adds a special touch.

An hour and 45 minutes from Durban, Hartford House, a colonial-style property, is set against verdant greenery, with fine horses roaming the fields and a tranquil lake near the exquisitely appointed cottages (which is where you want to stay if you’re an overnight guest).

Tips: From Wednesday to Sunday, the Tijnhuis hosts a market of delicious local produce that you won’t want to miss. Breakfasts here are legendary.