Set in various locations within the 5-star Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, are Chefs and their teams preparing gourmet meals to our guests’ delight, weaving unique cooking styles and cuisine influences into an array of delectable dishes. Incomparable luxury and true South African hospitality go hand in hand with an outstanding dining offering, and at Sabi Sabi we take pride in an indulgent cultural experience to immerse yourself in.

Bush Lodge, steeped in tradition with a reputation of a “luxury home in the bush”, is an eclectic mix between conventional inspiration and art deco influences from all corners of the African continent. This unique mix is reflected in the culinary offering of unusual pairing of ingredients and innovative presentations that result in unforgettable dishes, carefully created under the watchful eye of Chef Wilfred Mtshali – Executive Head Chef at Sabi Sabi. 

The warm African hospitality that is the heartbeat of Bush Lodge, is imitated in the flickering flames of the new Outdoor Kitchen, consisting of 3 separate grill areas, where guests enjoy dinners under a star-studded African sky. Chef Wilfred, a member of the Sabi Sabi family for the past 7 years, has shown incredible dedication and consistency during his time in the Bush Lodge kitchen, and describes his food as ‘Contemporary African,’ blending international trends with traditional South Africa fare. Wilfred’s trademark is cooking as much as possible over a grill, excellently combining and capturing the freshness and flavour of the fusion of ingredients.

Chef Wilfred is also an incredible teacher, willing to pass on his decades of experience to his staff and presenting opportunities for them to improve their cooking skills and equip them with confidence.  The new Outdoor Kitchens are manned every evening by different Chefs from the team at Bush Lodge - Chefs Sipho, Dick, Pinkie, Patricia, Gift or Pretty stand ready to present their signature dishes to our guests.

The dinner ritual at Bush Lodge commences with the choice of plated starters – think seared venison sushi or duck and crocodile spring roll – trust us, you’ll ask for a second helping. Soup of the day, prepared from the freshest, organic ingredients is served next, followed by a selection of salads made up of interesting and healthy combinations.

For main course, choose between the various grill kitchens or all three, where each Chef presents between two and three menu items. Dishes are prepared in accordance with seasonal ingredients and include varieties such as gemsbok loin, slow smoked beef brisket, chicken tandoori, braised oxtail and Scottish salmon, paired with wide choice of side dishes to complement your meal.

Gourmet desserts include fresh fruit, whipped snow-white cream, traditional South African sweet delights or a selection of fine cheese complete an evening meal to remember.

Meals are harmoniously balanced with a pairing from a carefully selected and award-winning wine list that is globally recognised for its excellence. 

Dining alfresco in the middle of the bush is an unparalleled experience, tuned to the background ‘music’ of croaking frogs, chirpy crickets and churring nightjars, while the moon slowly glides across the black sky. We invite you to an incomparable dinner at a place that feels like home.