Cool Spaces: The Red Room at Mount Nelson

WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS Supplied


A new Pan-Asian restaurant called The Red Room headed by Liam Tomlin of Chef’s Warehouse has opened its doors at the iconic The Mount Nelson Hotel – known fondly by locals as The Pink Lady.

Operated by Liam in connection with talented South African chef David Schneider (currently head chef at Chefs Warehouse at Maison in Franschhoek), the new space will be run by the dynamic chef duo, Geoffrey Abrahams and Teenola Govender taking lead in the kitchen.

The restaurant highlights Liam’s strong passion for all things Asian, from the culture to the flavour profiles of their dishes. “The menu will take guests on a curated journey through the East. Honouring these cuisines with a unique dining experience in an iconic setting,” he says.

The Red Room at Mount Nelson – close up of some of the dishes on offer

The restaurant will offer both an á la carte menu that features small plates such as grilled scallops with Tom Yum foam and Kombu butter or Korean BBQ pork steamed bun, along with a four-course set menu to share. A notable dish off the menu is the Peking Duck, paired with duck consommé, dumplings, and marinated tofu, it is a memorable dish that aims to deliver on experience and flavour. Expect tea-infused cocktail menus, sake and creative libations from the mixologist.

READ MORE: Chef Liam Tomlin’s Higgovale Home

The restaurant interior has been crafted to create a feeling of ‘old-world dining’ with sophisticated, bold colours and richly textured materials that have been chosen as the backdrop, giving the space a moody atmosphere which is amplified by an “underground den”. The deep red tones of velvet curtains at the entrance and the red booth seating, paired with the low-lit glimmering bar area create an opulent dining experience. The restaurant still houses the original features of the hotel’s previous iconic 70s grill room.

“Our hope is that by bringing Chefs Warehouse to the Mount Nelson, we will aid in expanding the food and beverage offering for the already-legendary hotel, giving guests little reason to leave the property in search of world-class dining,” adds Liam.


The Red Room is open from Monday to Saturday, from 6pm to 9.15pm.

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