We are delighted to welcome back Gerhardt Witbooi who has been a member of our dynamic team of chefs a number of times over the last 6 years.⁠
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Gerhardt went to school in Tulbagh, with both his parents latterly working at Steinthal, our local children’s home, before retiring to Clanwilliam.⁠
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Gerhardt studied at Ikusasa in Riebeek West, completing his diploma in 2015.⁠
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During his studies, Gerhardt spent much time at the Tulbagh Hotel under the tutelage of Tara Essenhigh.⁠
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It was obvious that Gerhardt had a passion for his chosen profession and so we sponsored a trip to the U.K., arranging for him to spend time at the award-winning La Potiniere restaurant in Scotland (image two, pictured with owners Keith and Mary), and Siracusa restaurant in London.⁠
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It wasn’t all work and no play as Alasdair also took Gerhardt to an international rugby match at Murrayfield in Edinburgh, a cricket match at the Oval in London and even a Red Bull Air Race! (Image 3 is Gerhardt on a day out in Oxford, taking in the sights).⁠
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In 2019 Gerhardt was awarded a sponsorship to spend 18 months working in the USA, at Mission Point Resort in Michigan and Sun Valley ski resort in Idaho!⁠
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Returning home to South Africa in 2020, he took a position at the Manor restaurant, part of the Nederburg Wines estate.⁠
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Gerhardt has now returned to the Tulbagh hotel to head up our team of 11 chefs.⁠
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Having just launched our exciting new summer menu, with a strong focus on local seasonal produce, we cannot wait to welcome you into our restaurant to enjoy some of Gerhardt and his team’s talented and very experienced expertise!⁠