Reflecting on a whirlwind year filled with standout highs and inevitable lows, we gathered a group of our long-standing clients for a three-course lunch, generously hosted by Bardot Restaurant & Bar. Nestled at the base of The Pearls, this coastal gem knows precisely how to welcome its guests. Bardot treated us from the moment we arrived, with a curated selection of chilled and sparkling wines, fresh juices, and non-alcoholic options awaiting us at the entrance to set the tone and keep conversations flowing.
Our party of 14 enjoyed the St Tropez set menu: a tempting spread of starters, mains, and decadent desserts. With thoughtful options for various dietary needs, the toughest task was simply choosing from their delicacies. Every dish – perfectly cooked, beautifully presented, and portioned just right – exceeded our expectations. Empty plates and satisfied smiles told the story of a kitchen working at the top of its game.
Their French-inspired menu delivers refined, easy-going dining – fresh, seasonal ingredients artfully made into dishes that feel both elevated and approachable. Paired with a well-considered cocktail and wine list that highlights South African favourites, every element enhances the experience without overshadowing it.
We were hosted in the Opera Glass House, a bright, glass-framed space surrounded on three sides by sweeping views. Accommodating up to 80 guests indoors and 50 guests on the balcony, it’s the ideal setting for events that want Umhlanga itself to be part of the experience. With panoramic scenes of the deep blue ocean, the Whalebone Pier, and the vibrant promenade, the space needs little else in the way of décor. Stacking glass panels offer flexibility for any weather, and by night, the glow of city lights transforms the venue into something even more magical.
For smaller gatherings, Bardot offers The Library – a private dining room suited for up to 20 guests or reconfigured into an intimate lounge for 12. Those needing a more formal setup can opt for the Black Room, a versatile 60-seater dining or conference space complete with its own patio and private restroom facilities.
Whether it’s a corporate lunch, an intimate celebration, or a milestone event, Bardot’s selection of private spaces and attentive service ensures each gathering feels personal and memorable.
Our client lunch blended refined flavours, effortless hospitality, and Umhlanga’s sweeping ocean views into an afternoon that reminded us why shared meals matter.
Bardot, a shimmering jewel on KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline, gracefully incorporates elegance, warmth, and French Riviera charm. Inside, the space feels chic yet relaxed, with sunlit interiors and ocean views that invite long conversations and lingering lunches.
Our thanks and appreciation were sweetened by the wonderful service from the team at Bardot Restaurant & Bar. The day was a testament to the power of good food, good company, and beautiful surroundings.
Special Thanks:
A heartfelt thank you to the team at Bardot Restaurant & Bar for hosting us and to Tazz from Coastal Media for capturing the experience with stunning images.
Instagram: bardot.sa
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Words: Jacqueline Herbst