Culinary A-team collaborate at Time Square | The Planner

Executive Chef, Ronald Ramsamy

Sun International has assembled its culinary A-team and an eclectic ensemble of South African and international personalities to create a new hub for gastronomical exploration in Pretoria – Time Square. In a meeting of culinary minds, the team is creating a vibrant food and beverage landscape where a diversity of cuisines and experiences can be explored.

Executive Chef, Chester Graham

Sun International’s esteemed group Executive Chef, Ronald Ramsamy will steer Time Square’s culinary team, with Executive Chef, Chester Graham; group Executive Pastry Chef, Sean Mann; Executive Sous Chef, Adrian Vaughn; Executive Sous Chef, Justin Jonah; Chef de Cuisine, Ramon Gouws and Chef de Cuisine Napo Ranko.

“Time Square is a destination for gastronomical adventure; where innovative concepts combine – some which are a first for South Africa. The food journey at each distinguishing restaurant is cleverly defined to the finest detail to create a truly authentic experience, from the way in which guests are welcomed to the way that the bill is presented at the end of the meal. We have been working with some of the most exciting culinary heads to bring our vision to fruition and it is almost time to reveal it,” says Brett Hoppé, General Manager: Time Square.

When Time Square opens its doors to the public in April 2017, there will be 18 restaurants and up-market bars to explore. Each is individual in concept and character to deliver a distinctive experience.

Group Executive Pastry Chef, Sean Mann

There will be three unique establishments on the upper level: Forti Grill by Fortunato Mazzone (the charismatic South African chef, radio personality and owner of the multiple award-winning Ristorante Ritrovo in Pretoria); Something’s Cooking by J’Something by Joao da Fonseca (the lead singer of South African house band Mi Casa and well known culinary artiste – aka J’Something), Guy Fieri’s Kitchen and Bar by Guy Fieri (American celebrity chef, restaurateur and TV host of Guy’s Big Bite and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives).

Guy Fieri’s Kitchen and Bar offers a first-for-South Africa experience with off-the-hook, scratch-made food, signature craft beers and rocking tunes. The venue will also feature regular live entertainment.

Food and entertainment combine at Something’s Cooking by J’Something. This trendy eatery offers a fresh twist on Mediterranean and African cuisine. Signature dishes created by J’Something and prepared alongside his beloved mom are served in an effervescent friendly setting.

Executive Sous Chef, Adrian Vaughn

Forti Grill and Bar, is the first restaurant to carry Fortunato Mazzone’s name, offers a truly international standard, fine dining experience with several unique features including reflective pools, olive trees and an A-team of exceptional chefs and sommeliers. Forti Grill and Bar will serve elegant of “Michelin star standard” but without pomposity. The restaurant will feature an a la carte as well as tasting menus.

Eatas, on the first floor, is an authentic tapas restaurant that emphasises a social and sharing food experience, serving perfectly curated dishes paired with exquisite wines. Various cooking techniques will be used in a dynamic and multi-dimensional approach to Spanish, Greek, Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean tapas dishes.

The all-glass sphere of the upmarket Globe Bar is visible from the outside of the Time Square complex. There, discerning guests can savour premium spirits in a sophisticated setting, with panoramic views of the Menlyn bustle by day and the lights by night.

Executive Sous Chef, Justin Jonah

The Brew Monkey – Resembling a rustic microbrewery, The Brew Monkey is a gastro pub where craft beers and artisanal food can be explored. The menu includes light meals, burgers and snack baskets. Bar Time, at the heart of Time Square, is the place to go for signature cocktails, beers and refreshments, with an emphasis is on quality and promptness of service.

Megusto Coffee is a trendy coffee shop serving speciality coffees. A place to meet, connect and relax. Kungfu Cowboy; East meets West at this fun filled eatery where gourmet burgers, sushi and Asian-inspired fare can be enjoyed in a casual and friendly setting.

Other restaurants and bars include an authentic Chinese restaurant, Ashoka and an Indian restaurant, Shun De. The casino itself boasts several well-positioned walk-up bars serving a selection of drinks and cocktails, while the Sun Lounge and Prive provide a more exclusive food and beverage service.

Chef de Cuisine, Ramon Gouws

Time Square, situated in Menlyn, Pretoria, will be Sun International’s flagship property when it opens in April 2017. The complex will comprise a state of the art casino; luxury hotel; conference facilities; restaurants and up-market bars. Boasting an expansive 8 500-seat Arena, to open later in the year, Time Square hails the start of a new era in entertainment. The only venue of its kind in Pretoria, the arena will play host to international and local concerts, exhibitions and lifestyle events.

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