The restaurant at Ellerman House is a proud part of Cape Town’s vibrant culinary landscape, offering guests a refined dining experience that still feels like home. Behind each mouthwatering dish is Head Chef, Kieran Whyte, who was hand-picked for the role by Culinary Director, Peter Tempelhoff.

Their professional partnership began as Kieran was completing his Grande Diploma at Silwood School of Cookery – South Africa's oldest and most acclaimed cookery school. What began as a stage at Peter’s World’s 50 Best-ranking restaurant, The Greenhouse, became seven years of sharing a kitchen, allowing Kieran to hone his skills in a five-star hospitality environment.

His experience at The Greenhouse was followed by a stint as a restaurateur before moving on to Delaire Graff; another exceptional example of South African luxury hospitality in the Cape Winelands. Kieran spent a year at beautiful Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek before being approached by Peter to join the team at Ellerman House, where his understanding of classic European techniques, an appreciation of global cuisine and a fierce commitment to sustainable practices could be taken to new heights.

Kieran is part of an exciting new generation of modern South African chefs, weaving inspiration from kitchens around the world with local ingredients, innovative techniques and imaginative flavour combinations. The use of fresh seasonal produce grown in and around the city – something Kieran sees as a given for any contemporary menu worth its salt – is complemented by indigenous ingredients, some of which are even foraged on-site in our garden.

Alongside his passion for good food is a deep appreciation for wine that echoes our own. Operations Manager and former Head Sommelier, Manuel Cabello, says “Kieran loves wine as much as he loves food – and there are not many [chefs] out there like that!” Pitch-perfect pairings are carefully selected for each dish he and his team create, and, with more than 10,000 bottles to choose from in the hotel’s private collection, they are spoiled for choice.

Each plate that comes across the pass reflects Kieran’s experience and enthusiasm, blending classic European techniques with the finest South African produce and adding a splash of his own unique creativity. The result is an inspired dining experience; elegant, restrained menus that draw on the rich heritage of the Cape and echo the luxurious comfort of our enchanting oceanfront escape.