Eat Out critic Gywnne Conlyn gives us a taste of Flames at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff in Johannesburg.

An outside view of the Flames Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

The refurbishment of this Grande Dame of Jozi has seen that iconic pink colour of the exterior disappear. Nevertheless, the revitalisation works, and the hotel’s dining areas have been designed to showcase the celebrated tree-filled views over the city.

Food

Flames is certainly worth a visit, and the menus throughout the day are well thought-out. Mornings offer a continental breakfast, or you can opt for their well-prepared eggs Benedict or Florentine. On the lunch menu, the café de Paris fillet steak is a very good choice; you should also investigate the daily specials listed on the blackboard, which the waiter will explain.

#Chewsday treated to an amazing #dinner with an extremely #special #someone. #Porkbelly ne ma #chips lol

A photo posted by MunyaChanetsa (@munyachanetsa) on Dec 21, 2015 at 10:15pm PST

It’s a treat to watch your order being prepared at the open braai area, whether it’s ostrich sosatie skewers, delicious garlic- and thyme-marinated Karoo lamb chops, pizzas, burgers and more. On Sundays, the lunch buffet is enormously popular.

Drinks

The extensive wine list will have even the most informed diner smiling. There’s also an excellent selection of craft beers from small, local breweries. Request tap water (absolutely fine in Johannesburg) if you’d prefer not to have the pricy 750 ml flask of bottled water arrive.

Inside of the Flames Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

Service

This is blue-chip service: well trained and professional.

Ambience

Flames offers a five-star view of one of the biggest man-made forests in the world. An infinity pool adds glamour. Despite the fact that the dining areas are mostly open-plan, the tables feel cosy and private.

The terrace at the Flames Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

And…

Children, as well as special dietary requirements, are catered for.

Have you had a fancy braai at Flames in Johannesburg? Let us know what you thought in a review and we will pledge a meal to a hungry child through Stop Hunger Now SA.

Eat Out critics dine anonymously and pay for their meals in full. Read about how it all works here.

The interior at the Flames Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.