Emoyeni ups its offering with Michel Morand

View from Emoyeni terrace at night.

One of South Africa's top restaurateurs Michel Morand, formerly of Auberge Michel, and his award-winning team, including executive chef Yohann Saumande, have joined forces with Nonhlanhla Mavie, who is in charge of operations at Emoyeni.

The house, designed by architects Leck and Emley (who designed the Rand Club, the Stock Exchange and Corner House), was built in 1905 for the Honourable Henry Hull, who was to become minister of finance in the first Union government.

It has offered exclusive conference and event facilities but now adds the restaurant serving lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday. The small, but well thought out, menu changes often and there is a regular degustation menu which includes a glass of wine especially paired to each of the four courses.

Morand is clearly thriving on his latest challenge, "Those who have dined in my restaurants know that I always give it my all. Success in this industry only comes from passion. I am thrilled to be in this gorgeous setting and am determined to make my mark here. It is all about attention to detail. Diners will find favourite ingredients on the menu but in a different and unexpected incarnation every time they visit. My team and I are determined that Emoyeni once again becomes a jewel in the Johannesburg landscape and acknowledged for its fine food."

"I have always admired his unsurpassable record in culinary expertise," adds Mavie. "When he advised me that his restaurant was closing, because the premises had been sold, I invited him to team up with me. The opportunity came at the time when I was actively looking for a reputable restaurateur who would operate a restaurant offering superb dining as there was a growing demand for a top class la carte restaurant from our existing clients."

For more information, go to www.emoyeniestate.co.za.