Crystal Court

Step into a reimagined Crystal Court at The Palace of the Lost City - where heritage, flavour, and fine dining converge in breathtaking style. In 2024, Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen curated the new Crystal Court breakfast buffet, introducing a refined breakfast experience inspired by South Africa's rich culinary heritage.

The refreshed space blends timeless grandeur with modern elegance, featuring updated interiors, enhanced landscaping, and décor inspired by iconic local ingredients. Guests can enjoy a vibrant buffet at the new circular station or a curated tray menu from the à la carte selection - each dish telling a story of home, heritage, and hearty flavour.

You can look forward to warm hospitality, a beautifully designed space beneath the iconic crystal chandelier, and an immersive culinary journey that honours South Africa’s roots. Expect bold, nostalgic flavours reimagined with elegance, personalised breakfast options, and a setting where every detail - from décor to dish - tells a story worth savouring.

This is more than a meal - it’s a sensory celebration of South African culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.

A Refined Celebration of South African Flavour

At the core of this extraordinary collaboration lies a soulful, meticulously curated menu - one that reimagines South African cuisine through the globally renowned lens of Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. With his signature blend of elegance, innovation, and deep-rooted nostalgia, Jan Hendrik pays homage to the country’s diverse culinary heritage - rich in history, humble ingredients, and bold, unforgettable flavours.

Guests can choose between two elevated breakfast experiences:

The Circular Buffet Station

A striking centrepiece beneath the Palace’s iconic crystal chandelier, this newly introduced buffet wraps around sculptural African elephants - inviting guests to explore a curated selection of seasonal produce, heritage-inspired dishes, and international favourites. Each item is elevated with Jan Hendrik’s hallmark refinement, transforming a traditional buffet into a culinary showcase.

The Curated Tray Menu

For a more personalised experience, guests may opt for a beautifully plated tray menu featuring a selection of à la carte dishes, available at an additional cost. Each plate is a masterclass in presentation, flavour, and storytelling - drawing inspiration from childhood memories, local landscapes, and cherished South African traditions, reimagined for the modern palate.

This is more than a meal - it is an immersive cultural journey. Every bite speaks of place and provenance, of passion and precision, offering international guests a rare opportunity to discover the heart of South Africa through the artistry of its first Michelin-starred chef.