By Simoné Combrinck

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the unique and enchanting dining experience at Le Petit Chef, a creation of Dinnertime Stories, hosted at The Royal Elephant Hotel in Centurion, Pretoria. This innovative blend of storytelling and gourmet cuisine left a lasting impression on me, making it an evening to remember.

The Royal Elephant Hotel itself is a stunning venue, and it provides the perfect backdrop for the Le Petit Chef experience. The experience began in a beautifully decorated dining room with elegant, intimate settings that created a cozy and inviting ambiance. The attention to detail was evident in the charming table settings and the soothing background music, which set the mood for our time ahead.

The service was impeccable from the moment we arrived. The staff were friendly, hospitable, knowledgeable, and attentive, ensuring that our dining experience was seamless. Each course was presented with an intriguing narrative that brought the miniature chef character to life and added a delightful touch.

The highlight, of course, was the food. Le Petit Chef offers a unique eight-course tasting menu, each course accompanied by a fascinating story about the chef’s culinary journey. The portions were appropriately sized for a tasting menu, allowing us to savour the variety of flavors without feeling overwhelmed. The dishes were beautifully plated, and the attention to detail was impressive.

The flavours were diverse and well-balanced, with influences from various international cuisines. While the food was delicious overall, some dishes outshone others, which really boils down to personal preference, but not a single dish left any of us disappointed.

Le Petit Chef is truly innovative in its approach to dining. The use of 3D projection technology to tell a story on your plate is a novel concept that adds an extra layer of engagement to the culinary experience. It’s a perfect blend of technology and gastronomy, making the meal an unforgettable event that stimulates both your taste buds and your imagination.

While Le Petit Chef offers a memorable dining experience, it is undeniably on the higher end of the price spectrum. The cost is justified by the creativity, presentation, and the immersive experience, but it may not be an everyday dining option for most.
Le Petit Chef at The Royal Elephant Hotel by Dinnertime Stories is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines storytelling, technology, and culinary excellence to create a memorable evening of fine dining. The atmosphere, service, and innovation truly set it apart, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or for those seeking a unique and unforgettable culinary adventure. While it may be on the expensive side, the experience is worth it for those looking to elevate their dining experience to new heights.

It definitely gets a 5 star rating from me and I will be back for more. Look out for other amazing Dinnertime stories shows coming soon to Johannesburg as well. For more information on upcoming events, check out their website here or purchase tickets from the Computicket website – you won’t regret it.