JAN X CRYSTAL COURT

A Culinary Collaboration Rooted in Heritage

The Palace of the Lost City proudly partners with Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen to introduce an exclusive new culinary experience at The Crystal Court - one that puts South Africa’s rich food heritage at the forefront. This collaboration brings to life a menu inspired by traditional ingredients and time-honoured cooking techniques, resulting in a vibrant tribute to the country’s diverse and deeply rooted culinary culture.

About JAN

From the rolling farmlands of South Africa to the glamorous culinary scene of Europe, Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen has captivated the world with his elegant, evocative take on South African cuisine.

As the visionary behind JAN, the acclaimed restaurant in Nice, France, Jan Hendrik became the first South African chef to earn a Michelin star - an achievement that positioned him as a global ambassador for the flavours and traditions of his homeland. His distinctive approach blends innovation with nostalgia, reimagining local ingredients through refined technique and world-class artistry.

Born and raised on a farm in Mpumalanga, his food philosophy is rooted in heritage, storytelling, and a deep reverence for the land. Today, he brings that philosophy home in an extraordinary collaboration with The Palace of the Lost City.

At The Crystal Court restaurant, Jan Hendrik invites guests on a personal journey - from humble beginnings to international acclaim - through a culinary experience that honours South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry and delivers it with signature finesse.

The Lost Ingredient: Spekboom

Spekboom, also known as Elephant Bush, is an indigenous South African succulent that thrives in arid, sun-hardened landscapes. Renowned for its exceptional carbon-absorbing ability, it plays a vital role in environmental restoration by storing carbon within its small, rounded leaves. Perfectly adapted to extreme conditions, spekboom retains water in its thick, fleshy leaves and minimises evaporation through a protective waxy surface.

Its resilience allows it to survive drought, heat, and poor soil while creating microhabitats that support surrounding biodiversity. It also shares a unique relationship with elephants, who rely on its nutrient-rich leaves for nourishment and hydration. In return, grazing stimulates new growth, keeping the landscape healthy and balanced.

At Crystal Court restaurant, this natural partnership is celebrated as a symbol of South Africa’s ecological richness and enduring resilience.

From Bush to Plate:
A Philosophy of Place

With bright notes of lime, green apple, and sorrel, spekboom brings a refreshing acidity that lifts both savoury and sweet creations. Once valued as veldkos by indigenous communities, this remarkable ingredient has been reimagined by contemporary chefs to balance richness, enhance texture, and elevate flavour.

At Crystal Court restaurant, spekboom features across a curated selection of signature dishes - from slow-cooked meats and smoked fish to fresh salads, delicate desserts, and handcrafted beverages. Each plate is thoughtfully composed to showcase the ingredient’s natural character while delivering a refined, memorable dining experience.

This seasonal menu reflects Crystal Court’s restaurant commitment to cuisine shaped by place, sustainability, and storytelling. Every creation celebrates South Africa’s resilience, creativity, and natural abundance - inviting guests to experience dining where heritage and innovation meet.

JOIN US AT CRYSTAL COURT RESTAURANT

Come for the luxury, stay for the story
and savour the flavours of The Palace of the Lost City.

OUR CONTACT

014 557 4313 / 4307
lerato.molefe@suninternational.com