Written by: Mapaseka Sekgala
The Grill Room at the Oyster Box in Umhlanga, Durban, is a living testament to the elegance and artistry of fine dining. Known for its meticulous attention to detail, this iconic restaurant has earned its reputation over nearly 70 years as one of the best in the region. From its exquisite cuisine to its impeccable service and atmospheric décor, The Grill Room is more than just a place to eat—it’s an experience that invites guests to indulge in a world of flavor, luxury, and unforgettable moments.
A Sense of Occasion
Upon entering the Grill Room, it’s immediately apparent that every element of the restaurant has been carefully crafted to create a sense of grandeur. From the tuxedo-clad waiters to the crisp white tablecloths, the ambiance is nothing short of sophisticated. The lighting is soft and warm, and the melodic background music sets the perfect tone for an evening of fine dining. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a lavish meal, the atmosphere makes you feel as though you’re part of something truly exceptional.
A Surprising Journey of Flavors
Our evening at The Grill Room began at 8:00 p.m. with no intention of staying too long—just a quick dinner before heading out. Little did we know, the experience would draw us in for the entire evening. Bryon, our attentive waiter, escorted us to our table and presented the menu. We began with the house’s still water—OB (Oyster Box)—and were quickly treated to an unexpected delight: a serving of cheese breadsticks with salted and biltong butter. The simple yet rich flavors of the breadsticks and butter set the tone for what would become a memorable meal.
A Creative Start
Before we even ordered our main courses, we were delighted with two complimentary dishes that showcased the chef’s commitment to creativity and flavor. The first was an amuse-bouche: a delicate combination of grilled halloumi cheese, crème cheese, and almond tuile. This small bite was bursting with complex flavors. The salty, mild halloumi paired beautifully with the creamy texture of the crème cheese, while the almond tuile added a light, crispy contrast.
Next came a refreshing palate cleanser: a pineapple and litchi sorbet. The sorbet tasted like a frozen version of fresh fruit—sharp, tangy, and just sweet enough to cleanse the palate before the main courses arrived.
The Main Event
For our mains, we ordered the Mainland’s beef fillet and roasted chicken from the carving trolley. Accompanied by a bottle of Tokara Zonder white wine, we settled in for what promised to be an extraordinary meal. When the beef fillet arrived, it was clear the kitchen had mastered the art of cooking meat to perfection. The fillet was tender, juicy on the inside, and crisp on the outside, with a rich béarnaise sauce and truffle shavings elevating its flavor. The accompanying steamed vegetables were fresh and cooked just right, offering a light contrast to the richness of the fillet. We also ordered a side of hand-cut fries, which were golden, crispy, and wonderfully satisfying, with the skin still on.
The roasted chicken from the carving trolley was another standout. Tender, juicy, and served with a creamy champagne butter sauce, this dish was a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The free-range chicken was roasted to perfection, and the rich, subtle flavors of the champagne butter sauce complemented the meat beautifully. Creamed spinach, rich and velvety, rounded out the plate, adding a luxurious touch to the dish.
Surprises and Treats
As if the meal wasn’t already indulgent enough, Bryon surprised us with another treat: a dark chocolate peppermint mousse. This light, airy dessert had a touch of bitterness from the dark chocolate and a cool, refreshing minty flavor that made it the perfect end to our meal.
What truly impressed us was the generosity of the carving trolley service. For just R195, we were served a full chicken with all the trimmings—a rare find in a fine dining establishment, and a testament to The Grill Room’s commitment to providing value as well as quality.
A Dining Experience to Remember
The Grill Room is the epitome of fine dining, offering not only world-class food but also an atmosphere that transports you to another world. The combination of attentive service, luxurious décor, and exceptional cuisine makes it the perfect destination for those seeking to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in a meal fit for royalty. Whether you’re a local or visiting Durban, dining at The Grill Room is an experience worth savouring.
