Beyond Green Leaves: The Flavourful World of Plant-Based Dining at Sashwa

For many, the thought of plant-based food conjures up ideas of green leaves and soggy tofu – bland, uninspired, and all about what’s missing. But at Sashwa, it’s anything but. Here, each plate is bursting with creativity and flavour whilst celebrating our connection to the earth. Those guests who haven’t yet experienced the flavourful world of plant-based dining sometimes arrive unsure of what to expect. But, by the time they leave, the food is often one of the highlights they talk about most.

“The vegan menu was outstanding, the meals were absolutely divine! Every dish was delicious and beautifully presented. Despite being full, I couldn’t resist indulging in all three courses at both breakfast and dinner as they were just too moreish!”

A Feast for All the Senses

From chickpea and cauliflower potjie, sweet potato flatbread, and creamy polenta with slow-roasted tomatoes to berry pavlova, marula malva pudding, hazelnut ice-cream, and pumpkin fritters with orange and thyme syrup – our menu is full of surprises. Comforting curries, crunchy salads, creamy spreads and indulgent crumbles are just a few favourites.

It’s decadent, deeply satisfying, and a sensory experience in its own right. Whether you’re a devoted vegan or a curious omnivore, there’s an unexpected joy to be found in every, guilt-free bite.

“The plant-based menu was a delicious experience, opening our tastebuds to a whole new world of complex flavours that were just so enjoyable.”

“The fine dining cuisine is out of this world”

A Philosophy You Can Taste

Though creating healthful, mouth-watering meals is our priority, our food is also part of a bigger story. One that honours the earth, uplifts communities, and brings people together around the table.

Like everything we do, our approach is rooted in sustainability. Our whole-foods, seasonal menu is inspired by local, low-impact ingredients sourced from nearby growers or harvested fresh from our Abundance Garden. Alongside the incredibly talented Chef Arabella of Eat to Thrive, our kitchen team regularly reimagines plant-based cooking through bold flavours, surprising combinations and thoughtful preparation. Each new dish is a delicate balance of nourishment, creativity and zero-waste principles.

Did you know that South Africa throws away around 10 million tonnes of food each year? This, while an estimated 20 million people live in food poverty, going to bed hungry every night. By finding innovative ways to turn discarded onion skins, blemished apples and leftover mash into stocks, teas and soups, we aim to minimise our waste and lead the way in conscious cooking.

“The food—easily some of the best I’ve ever had.”

More Than Delicious

At Sashwa, we invite you to savour what’s fresh and real. To rethink what nourishment – and plant-based food – can look like. And, last but not least, to travel in a way that leaves a positive impact on the places you visit. Why not give it a try? You might find yourself pleasantly surprised and inspired – and, hopefully, just a little bit full.

“There are so many lodges to choose from within Southern Africa, but none quite like Sashwa. It’s uniqueness is vast, from the incredible river views to the attention to detail around sustainability. The delicious plant-based meals are made with love, with ingredients often sourced straight from the garden. They are Vegan Hospitality Certified & we are proud to support them & their unique concept.”    – Vegan Hospitality