Menu

A Culinary Journey in
the Heart of the Bush

Award-winning cuisine · Fresh local ingredients · Under the African stars

At Jamala Madikwe, dining is a celebration of Africa’s finest ingredients, expertly prepared to delight the senses. Whether you are dining under the stars, in the intimate surroundings of your villa, or on our outdoor terrace, every meal is a memorable experience.

Bowl of soup garnished with edible flowers, with a small jug on the side

Refined Dining
Experiences

Where the Bush Meets the Table

Our culinary team, led by Head Chef Jacques Sansom, creates menus inspired by the bold flavours of Southern Africa. We focus on fresh, local produce to craft exceptional meals that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage.

Sticky glazed chicken with spring onion and sesame on a wooden tray
Smiling chef in an apron beside the dining tables
Chef placing microgreens on a plated starter
Salad of beetroot, radish, microgreens and almonds on a dark plate

Tailored to You

Every meal is an occasion. We’ll work with you to ensure your dining experience is just as you imagined, whether it’s an intimate dinner for two on your private deck, a candlelit dinner beneath the stars, or an extensive high tea with panoramic views.

Award-Winning Cuisine

Jamala Madikwe has won numerous awards for its outstanding cuisine. Look out for two Jamala Madikwe cookbooks: Savannah to Sea as well as Safaris and Spices, by award-winning executive chef and general manager Nico Verster.

The Outdoor Boma
Set beneath Africa’s ink-rich skies, the boma is an ancient African tradition reimagined at Jamala Madikwe. Gather around a fire as the stars emerge overhead - a profoundly African evening, unhurried, communal, and unlike any restaurant on earth.
Romantic Watchtower Dinner
An intimate table for two, elevated above the bush with views that stretch to the horizon. Candlelit, private, and designed entirely around the two of you. The quintessential Jamala Madikwe occasion for celebrations and anniversaries.
Star-Lit Pool Deck
Dinner on the pool deck, overlooking the Jamala Madikwe waterhole. Wildlife arrives at the waterhole as the evening begins - you dine with them, separated only by the sound of the African night. One of the most unique dining settings in Southern Africa.
The Jamala Dining Room
The main dining room offers a warm and elegant indoor setting at the heart of the lodge. Used as one of Jamala Madikwe’s dinner venues, it brings the evening indoors while keeping the same sense of occasion, comfort and connection.

Fine Wines &
Cocktails

Complete your meal with expertly paired wines or refreshing cocktails. Our wine list features the best of South Africa’s vineyards, while our staff are ready to serve up drinks that capture the spirit of the bush.

Dry martini with an olive on the bar