Destination: South Africa

Weekend Wanderlust

Destination: South Africa

From the culture of Cape Town and sumptuous dinners in the Winelands to the majesty of the Cape of Good Hope and its epic wildlife sightings (lions and elephants on private game reserves, oh my, indeed!)—South Africa celebrates variety.

 

Chef: Reuben Riffel

@ chefreubenriffel

Chef Reuben Riffel is a celebrated South African chef known for his robust flavors and innovative cooking techniques that elevate traditional South African cuisine. At the heart of his culinary philosophy is the use of fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are both comforting and sophisticated. Riffel's approach often involves simple methods that highlight the natural flavors of the food, such as slow-cooking and roasting, which allow the ingredients to shine. He has gained recognition for his ability to blend spices and textures in ways that pay homage to South Africa's rich culinary heritage while adding a contemporary twist. Through his popular restaurants and television appearances, Chef Riffel continues to inspire food enthusiasts around the world with his passionate embrace of South African flavors.

 

Pineapple Pickle

1 pineapple
3 packets heirloom carrots (or baby carrots), scrubbed
6 radishes
4 baby cucumbers
1 cup rice wine vinegar
1 t caster sugar
½ t ground cumin
1 cardamom pod, crushed
 
Peel, core and cube the pineapple. Thinly slice the carrots, radishes and cucumbers using a mandolin. Heat the rice vinegar and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the cumin and cardamom.

Pour the warm dressing over the vegetables and pineapple, toss and allow to stand for 10 minutes.

 

Culinary Pharmacy Product Highlight:

Grapefruit Glace
Morning Face & Body Balm

Skin Analysis for Chef: Crafted with ingredients like Marula Oil - known as the "Elixir of Youth"- native to Southern Africa, where it has been used as a natural remedy for centuries, this antioxidant-rich balm is a powerful moisturizer for dry, dull, aging skin!

Ingredients like mango butter contain natural sun protectants to help guard your skin barrier against the harmful effects of UV radiation!

Vacation Outfit Inspo

ZIMMERMANN Lightburst belted crochet-trimmed floral-print cotton mini shirt dress

Why we love this: Zimmermann's 'Lightburst' dress dazzles with its vibrant patchwork of floral prints in assorted colors, capturing the essence of a lush, tropical paradise. Crafted from breezy cotton, this piece is beautifully accented with crochet trims and an optional belt, featuring a distinctive tropical logo patch that adds a touch of whimsy. It's the perfect blend of elegance and carefree style, ideal for any summer occasion.

Net A Porter
@netaporter

 

EUGENIA KIM
Courtney metallic straw fedora

Why we love this: Crafted from lightweight straw with an open weave design, this piece is subtly enhanced with flecks of metallic threads for a gentle shimmer. It features an internal grosgrain band, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. This hat is a stylish choice for sunny days, combining functionality with a hint of sparkle.

@Net A Porter

 

The Stay: Delaire Graff Estate

Delaire Graff Estate
Unveiled in 2009 by diamond magnate Laurence Graff, Delaire is a gorgeous resort with world-class everything, from the prodigious wine cellar (ask for a tasting) and the spacious guest rooms with plunge pools to the serious art collection. Guest rooms are spread among ten cottages (called “lodges”), all of them spacious with chic, urban furniture in a cool gray palette. Private plunge pools and decks make the most of the sweeping views. One of the loveliest things to do is to stroll along the paved pathway that runs through the vineyard and admire row upon row of impeccably planted grapevines and a cavernous valley with breathtaking views over the countryside.