THE MAIN CONSERVATORY AT DE HOEK COUNTRY HOTEL

BEST FOR Luxurious country dining worth every litre of fuel. FOOD Chef Jacque's flavours are fresh and bold, elegant and subtle. Think watermelon and octopus carpaccio with pickled cucumber and cucumber foam, or cured duck with garden-pea mousse, shimeji mushrooms, walnut praline and coconut cream. Lamb cutlets are darkly scorched on the outside and delicately pink inside, while an ostrich medallion is served with gnocchi and blueberry jus. The cheese course with cashew parfait and grilled naartjie is equally delicious. Sunday lunches are of course a great family time, with tables set up in the garden and around the pool. De Hoek is part of the everpopular Magaliesburg meander, so on any given weekend there may be festivities and events. Bookings are essential. DRINKS Extensive wines and beverages are dispensed from a characterful bar. SERVICE Friendly and experienced. AMBIENCE Traditional, without feeling dated. Charming and so perfectly suited to the environment. (HF)