The Flagship bouillabaisse. Photo courtesy of the establishment.

Chef Bruce Robertson, possibly most renowned for his time at helms of The Cape Grace, The Showroom (an Eat Out Top 10 restaurant in 2006 and 2007) and most recently The Boathouse, is opening his home to travellers and guests. The Flagship, a four-room luxury guesthouse situated in Simonstown, is not merely a BnB, nor is it a restaurant. “It’s a gourmet home, the first of its kind in South Africa,” explains Bruce. “I now literally live, eat, sleep [my work]. I have an oyster tank in my lounge!”

The Flagship is open every day for lunch, and dinner is served on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday for those checked in at the guesthouse. The menu celebrates both the setting, overlooking False Bay, and the sea. “We forage, pickle, cook and consume whatever eats, swims or walks in the ocean – plough snails, urchins, whelks, anything that’s different,” says Bruce. “We want to showcase South African seafood.” But there are limits: sustainability is key at The Flagship, so that means no prawns, scallops or kingklip.

The Flagship’s chef at work. Photo courtesy of the establishment.

The Flagship turns the midday meal into an occasion, with the five-course set menu and wine pairing costing R720 per person, with bubbly on arrival. “It’s very interactive – my kitchen is open-plan. Guests must arrive at 1 ‘o clock sharp as I give a talk on the menu.”

There are no walk-ins, and The Flagship is already full for the month of November, so guests best book in advance. The intimate setup comprises two large tables accommodating up to 12 people, so be prepared to be sociable. To book, email reservations@chefbrucerobertson.com or visit www.chefbrucerobertson.com for more information and to check availability.

The Flagship’s pool deck. Photo courtesy of the establishment.