Southern Sun prides itself on partnering with innovative hospitality-driven projects, when those projects also bring a strong element of empowerment, that resonates with the values that Southern Africa’s leading hospitality group hangs their proverbial toque on.
One such partnership is DinnerTimeStories. This unique, internationally acclaimed, gastronomic experience enjoyed a triumphant run at The Beverly Hills Hotel in uMhlanga from February 2020 to May 2021, and has continued to captivate audiences with its innovative approach to dining, now enjoying another successful run at 54 on Bath in Rosebank since late October 2023.
At the Meetings Africa 2024 conference held at Sandton Convention Centre, DinnerTimeStories was honoured with an Innovation Award, recognising its outstanding contributions to the MICE/hospitality industry. This accolade underscores Southern Sun’s choice to partner with DinnerTimeStories which successfully continues to push boundaries and deliver unparalleled experiences to patrons.
The concept, created by two Belgian artists Filip Sterckx & Antoon Verbeeck, is produced by Paul Rouessart in South Africa to offer a unique new dining experience to the South African market. Madeleine Roux, General Manager at 54 on Bath commented: “The technology behind the show is remarkable and can be seen as an opportunity to upskill South Africans who may not have worked with this type of technology before.”
Running DinnerTimeStories resembles conducting a symphony, where local talent harmonises to orchestrate its operations seamlessly. Paul reflects on this journey, noting, “Launching DinnerTimeStoriesSA, I underestimated the sheer scope of personnel needed. It truly takes a village, and then some. With each new venture, our team expands creating much-needed job opportunities in the hospitality sector and others. Our team encompasses roles in administration, marketing, engineering, design, tech, and an array of other unsung heroes. As our enterprise flourishes, so does our need for dedicated hands. It’s a formidable task, but witnessing our patrons’ delight in our creations, the result of countless hours from our devoted team and suppliers, makes it all worthwhile.”
DinnerTimeStories shows are a two-and-a-half-hour immersive multisensory experience that showcases the world’s smallest chef. The show’s six course menu takes guest along a culinary journey which revolves around the 3D show and is complimented by a unique gastronomic experience full of fun and surprises. Diners engage in a five-senses spectacle as they savour the tastes of the projections along its sights, sounds and aromas. The 3D mapping concept uses animated optical illusion techniques which project a little chef cooking on your plate and table top. The mood, music, table patterns, all change with the menu served promising to immerse you in the most eye-catching meal you will ever experience.
“This animated 3D performance is a global phenomenon that brings the very best of cuisine and entertainment to your table, therefore, during the planning stages I knew that I needed a hospitality partner which could offer not only beautiful venues in the right locations, but also the culinary expertise and facilities essential to executing this unique gastronomic experience successfully. Southern Sun was the obvious choice.” says Rouessart.
This unforgettable dining experience is available for you to enjoy at 54 on Bath for a limited time.
