The hotel industry is perhaps one of the toughest environments in which to work, with high levels of customer service required as a key fundamental to overall success. No more is this true, than in the South African context, as hotels vie for business in an ever- tightening economy, faced with constantly changing competition and increasing pressure to push for business.

It is for this very reason that one hotel, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, has embarked on a life-coaching programme. Implemented in 2014, and open to all members of staff, on a voluntary basis, the key to the programme lies in exploring the challenges of the work-life balance.

Staff are afforded the opportunity, once a month, to partake in individual sessions, paid for by Granny Mouse, to discuss various elements of their work and home life, which includes discussing any problematic areas in the hope of finding a working solution. These confidential sessions assist in guiding staff in the right directions and offering sound advice to real world problems.

According to General Manager, Sean Granger, “having a happy staff compliment is imperative to our operations, as good customer service relies on fulfilled staff, and that is one of the primary reasons that we are committed to this process. When one of our team isn’t coping well, then it affects the entire team dynamic. We are thrilled that the staff have embraced the programme so well.”

With programmes such as this running with such success at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, it is little wonder why the hotel has been so immensely successful over its 30-year operation.

Apple & Pecan Nut Parcel

Norwegian Salmon

Executive Chef Shaun Dampies believes that fine dining is an ever evolving work in progress and with this in mind, he has restructured The Eaves fine dining menu to embrace this.

Launching this month, the latest version of the Eaves menu showcases dishes that are made with richness and fair tasting portions and offers a better variety for avid diners.

Chef Dampies is passionate about many things, but especially his Degustation Menu consisting of delicately prepared dishes paired with complimenting wines. Seen displayed on the menu is Caprese Martini (slow roasted baby tomatoes, beetroot soaked bocconcini, sweet balsamic caviar, fresh basil, crispy noodle garnish, beetroot dust and melba toast) paired with Rjiks Touch of Oak Chenin Blanc 2011 as well as Ginger Chocolate Ganache (black cherries, short bread crumb, ginger ice cream, cherry gel) paired with Hartenberg Weisser Riesling 2010 amongst others to create a 5 course meal with wines included, at a cost of only R580 per person or R385 per person excluding the wines. This is a definite choice for passionate food lovers that appreciate the fine dining experience.

On the Ala Carte Menu, you will find the standard Soup of the day, Chinese inspired dishes such as Hoisin Duck Salad, Pork and Prawns, Norwegian Salmon, Lamb Roulade and an array of other options. Dishes are priced from R55 to R170.

For those that enjoy a sweet something to end off the evening, the dessert menu saves the best for last with Black & White, Love of Liquorish (liquorish pasta, sambuca gel, Italian rose kisses and meringue sponge), Apple & Pecan Nut Parcel (poached baby apples, lavender malt ice cream, candied pecan nuts with caramel sauce) as well as the traditional Granny Mouse classic – Sorbet & Ice Cream Trio and a South African Cheese Selection – all of which are sure to satisfy all palates.

“I enjoy seeing the delighted look on my guests’ faces when they receive one of the delicious dishes off our new Eaves Menu. It is for this reason that I keep reinventing the options. This allows Granny Mouse to remain fresh and exciting and a go to place for those that appreciate the effort in fine fining.”

To book your table, contact Granny Mouse on 033 234 4071 or visit www.grannymouse.co.za