Celebrate the festive season at Insights at Sanctuary Mandela, where history, heritage, and exceptional cuisine come together in Nelson Mandela’s former residence. This boutique hotel and its renowned restaurant offer an extraordinary setting for celebrating with loved ones, savouring some of Mandela’s beloved dishes, and hosting corporate events.

At Insights, guests can embark on a culinary journey inspired by Madiba’s beloved dishes. The menu, meticulously crafted by Head Chef Mordecai Brauns in consultation with Chef Xoliswa Ndoyiya, pays homage to the late Madiba’s culinary preferences. Mam’Xoli, as she is affectionately known, served the president for over two decades and was instrumental in establishing Insights’ kitchen.

Recently, Dineplan announced Insight as one of their users’ top 25 South African restaurants and the highest-rated establishment in Gauteng.

“It’s an honour to be recognised as one of South Africa’s favourite restaurants and the top dining spot in Johannesburg, especially since these awards are based on genuine guest reviews,” says Vincent Monyake, General Manager of Sanctuary Mandela.

The restaurant booking platform announced its 2024 results on Wednesday, October 16. Insight made a significant leap from the top 100 in 2023 to 23rd place in the top 50, boasting an impressive 4.8 rating on the platform.

Festive Dining and Events

For businesses seeking a distinguished venue steeped in heritage to close out the year, Insights offers bespoke menus curated by Brauns. The new summer menu features treats like the Beetroot Symphony, a medley of beets with goat cheese, toasted walnuts, spicy beetroot gel, and a ponzu dressing, alongside the Biltong-Crusted Ribeye, a 300g cut of beef served with pap fondant, grilled aubergine, citrus carrot purée, and chilli. Set menus are also available for special events.

Celebrate the season with a Christmas meal or New Year’s celebration that pays homage to Nelson Mandela’s love for food. Whether you’re hosting an end-of-year function, an intimate family gathering, or a big celebration with friends, enjoy a culinary journey that connects you to South Africa’s rich heritage.

Combine your Christmas or New Year’s celebration with a stay at Sanctuary Mandela, where history and hospitality meet. The boutique hotel offers nine meticulously curated rooms, each reflecting different aspects of Nelson Mandela’s life. Stay in the same home that once hosted global icons like Michelle Obama and Bill Clinton, and immerse yourself in a truly enriching experience.

Insights continue its popular Jazz Sundays every weekend for lazy summer afternoons, celebrating music, food, and community. Relax and enjoy live performances by local jazz musicians in a welcoming atmosphere.

Corporate Retreats and Conferences

Kickstart 2025 at Sanctuary Mandela, the ideal venue for your C-suite leadership and strategy retreat. With exceptional conference facilities, world-class hospitality, and versatile meeting rooms, Sanctuary Mandela provides the perfect setting for executive teams to step away from the office and focus on strategic planning, goal setting, and team building in a historically significant environment.

The venue offers two flexible meeting venues, ideal for conferences, strategy sessions, and board meetings. These spaces, once used by Nelson Mandela for pivotal discussions, provide an inspiring atmosphere that promotes collaboration and leadership.

In addition to the historic ambience, the hotel boasts modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, secure parking, and personalised catering services. For larger events, the entire property—including nine curated bedrooms, a stylish bar, and the renowned Insights restaurant—can be booked exclusively, offering executives complete privacy and personalised service to cater to their every need.

Make this holiday season unforgettable at Sanctuary Mandela. Limited spots are available for December celebrations and January corporate retreats—book now to secure your place at one of Johannesburg’s most prestigious venues.

Learn more about our year-end events here.