HomeJust LifeA festive feast to remember: Radisson OR Tambo unveils exquisite Christmas Menu...

A festive feast to remember: Radisson OR Tambo unveils exquisite Christmas Menu in style

The holiday season kicked off in grand style as Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo Airport hosted an exclusive Christmas Menu launch event. With a guest list brimming with media personalities and influential figures from the lifestyle and food industries, the evening was one to remember. The guest list included well-known names such as Master Chef’s South Africa’s Top 9 finalist, Luyanda Mafanya and author of Positively Me, Nozibele Qamngana. Guests arrived in style, courtesy of a thoughtful collaboration between the hotel and Motus Toyota Johannesburg City, who offered convenient transport from their residences, allowing attendees to focus on the festivities ahead.

Upon arrival, the scene was set for an enchanting evening. The venue was transformed into a golden glow, with Christmas-themed décor creating a cosy and festive atmosphere. Partners entered the hotel’s beautifully decorated dining area, greeted by twinkling lights, holiday music, and an inviting ambiance that immediately set the tone for the night.

Author of Positively Me, Nozibele Qamngana

 An evening of exquisite culinary experiences

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from the host, Setshego Ledwaba, Marketing & Communications Manager at the hotel, who introduced guests to the exciting plans for the evening and provided insight into the specially curated Christmas menu. The focus was on bringing together the finest seasonal ingredients, paired expertly with a selection of premium wines, provided by the event’s official wine partner Rainha Suave.

The cold buffet selection

Guests began their culinary journey led by Executive Sous Chef, Caiphus Makhubela with an impressive cold buffet selection, presented by Demi Chef, Lesedi Ngwenya – this first course was an ode to refined simplicity and flavour, featuring:

  • Smoked salmon & cream cheese tartlets, offering a perfect balance of richness and freshness.

  • Crispy panko prawns paired with a zesty line aioli, adding a delightful crunch to the experience.

  • A selection of assorted breads, rolls, and spreads to complement the starters.

Each dish in the cold buffet was paired with the elegant Rainha Suave Chardonnay 2022, which featured crisp acidity and subtle fruit notes, making it the perfect companion to the delicate seafood and creamy textures of the first course.

The hot buffet selection

As the night progressed, the hot buffet was unveiled by Junior Sous Chef, Khosi Ndlovu, accompanied by Executive Sous Chef Caiphus Makhubela showcasing a sumptuous array of hearty, festive dishes designed to bring warmth and comfort. Highlights of the hot buffet included:

  • Butter chicken curry, served with soft rotis and a range of flavorful sambals, offering a taste of aromatic spices.

  • Red wine-braised oxtail, a rich and tender dish, slow-cooked to perfection for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

  • Crispy rosemary and garlic roasted potatoes, alongside fragrant basmati rice, completed the savory portion of the meal.

The hot dishes were paired with a choice of two wines: the bold and earthy, Tinta Barroca  2022 or the unique and smooth Coffee Pinotage 2022, both selections adding depth and character to the heartier flavours of the meal.

Rainha Suave

Sweet endings

No festive meal is complete without dessert, and the Christmas menu did not disappoint. The decadent dessert spread, presented by Commis Chef, Sihle Mnisi, featured a delightful assortment of treats, including:

  • Caramel & peppermint tartlets, combining the sweetness of caramel with the refreshing hint of mint.

  • Carrot cake with cream cheese icing, a holiday classic, moist and perfectly spiced.

  • Red velvet brownies, a rich, indulgent dessert that melted in the mouth with every bite.

Guests enjoyed their dessert with a choice of the semi-sweet Shiraz 2022, which offered a balance of sweetness and structure, or another glass of the Coffee Pinotage 2022, bringing a unique flavour profile that paired beautifully with the sugary delights.

A night to remember

The Christmas Menu launch was not just a culinary showcase, but also an opportunity for great conversations and holiday cheer. From table discussions among influencers and media personalities to the expert wine and food pairings that enhanced every bite, the event highlighted the hotel’s commitment to offering an exceptional holiday dining experience.

As the night drew to a close, guests left with full hearts and stomachs, thoroughly impressed by the festive feast, take-home gift from Rainha Suave and the hotel’s attention to detail. With this luxurious Christmas menu launch, the hotel has undoubtedly set the stage for a season of memorable holiday dining, promising an exceptional culinary experience for guests who will be visiting throughout the festive season.

This event stands as a testament to the hotel’s dedication to creating premium experiences, seamlessly blending gourmet food, fine wines, and festive spirit. Whether you’re staying in the airport district for business or leisure, this hotel is now the go-to destination for an unforgettable holiday feast.

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