Meet your Head Chef, Mme Manthomeng Mahao! She has been with us for the past 15 years, and her brother is the chief of Malealea, so you had better enjoy her cooking or else…
Of course, there is no “or else.” Mme Manthomeng directs her kitchen with as deft and fair a hand as Chief Qaba guides his village, and you will enjoy her cooking because it is as sumptuous as it is diverse. Each evening’s menu offers a blend of authentic Basotho flavors and Western favorites with a twist.
Mme’s favorite dishes are Samp and Coca Cola Chicken. Samp is a traditional food made from creamed white maize, while Coca Cola Chicken is a recipe the Jones family picked up from some American friends when they were living in Mt. Merusi. About two decades later, it is still served to the delight of all of our guests each and every week.
Breakfast is served from 7:30 – 9:00 every morning and includes a variety of cereals, fruits, and breads, as well as fried eggs and bacon. Tea, coffee, and juice are also provided.
In summer, dinner is served at 7:00 PM, after the band and choir have finished their sunset performance, and includes a variety of meat and vegetable dishes, as well as a small cake with custard at the end. In winter, dinner is a cozy affair at 6:30 in the evening, with a roaring fire in the hearth and plenty of hot soup to complement the standard menu. We braai at least two times a week, and always make sure that our large groups get more than enough steak to refuel after their days of trekking.
We are proud to offer our small daytime menu for lunches. Try our delicious toasted sandwiches using traditional sephaphata (home made bread), Monster Burger and even a scrumptions T-Bone steak served with chips or salad. Click here to see our menu options.
Sustainably supporting Malealea’s economy infuses every decision that we make. We are proud to serve locally grown food whenever possible and we purchase and serve all of the vegetables that the local Teaching Farm produces.
Mme Manthomeng makes sure that the food is always delicious and the atmosphere delightful in her dining room, but if you are with us for an extended period of time and are looking for more budget alternatives, or simply crave a little variety, please check out our Coffee Shop or make use of our communal kitchens!