Michelin Keys arrive in Africa: Cape Town’s hotels rank highly

The world’s most famous food guide has finally turned its gaze to Africa - and Cape Town’s hotels are front and centre. The Michelin Guide has just handed out its first-ever Michelin Keys across the continent, recognising excellence in hospitality from Morocco to Mauritius.

Launched globally in 2024, the Michelin Keys are the hotel world’s answer to the Michelin Stars - a new benchmark for stays that combine design, service, and soul.

South Africa unlocks Michelin recognition

South Africa earned 27 Michelin Keys, with 13 hotels in and around the Mother City - many already featured on Time Out’s Best Hotels in Cape Town list. 

Two properties, both in the Kruger National Park, received Three Keys: the highest distinction for “extraordinary stays".  The only other African country to surpass SA's hospitality recognition was Morocco with a total of 28 keys awarded - see the full list of 2025 Michelin Keys here.

In Cape Town, in particular, the results highlight the city’s rich blend of history, artistry and effortless chic - with a list of exceptional and special hotel stays that more than live up to the recognition.  

From the iconic Pink Lady the Nellie with its 125 years of hospitality heritage, to the delight and surprise of hotels like the One & Only that sits on the edge of the working harbour but is able to effortlessly create the impression of being ensconced inside an island resort.

These are Cape Town’s 2025 Michelin Key hotels:

Two Keys – Exceptional stays

• Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel

• Ellerman House

• Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel

• Delaire Graff Estate

One Key – Very special stays

• The Cellars-Hohenort
• One&Only Cape Town
• Steenberg Hotel & Spa
• The Silo
• The Last Word Franschhoek
• Le Quartier Français
• Leeu House
• Leeu Estates
• Akademie Street Boutique Hotel

'A moment of great pride' 

“We are deeply honoured to be recognised with Two Michelin Keys in the guide’s inaugural year in South Africa,” says the team at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel. “For over a century, The Nellie has been defined by both its setting and its spirit — its storied pink walls, lush gardens and the warm, heartfelt hospitality that greets every guest. This recognition affirms our dedication to creating truly unique experiences. To receive this distinction from Michelin, an authority synonymous with excellence, is a moment of great pride for all of us.” 

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The hotel is already preparing for its next chapter, unveiling Amura by Ángel León, the “Chef of the Sea” behind three Michelin-starred Aponiente, alongside the Thebe Magugu Suite and Magugu House Cape Town - collaborations the Mount Nelson states will "blend gastronomy, fashion and timeless hospitality." 

'Remarkable setting celebrated'

Cellars-Hohenort was recognised for its "refined service, distinctive character, and remarkable setting," according to Tanya Johnson, General Manager.

“We are honoured to receive this recognition from Michelin - a tribute to our passionate team whose warm, personalised service and dedication to timeless South African elegance continue to define The Cellars-Hohenort experience,” added Johnson.

A milestone moment for African hospitality

For decades, Africa’s dazzling culinary and cultural scene has been overlooked by the Michelin Guide. The absence of Michelin Stars across the continent has never reflected a lack of creativity or talent - just a slower pace of expansion and limited inspection networks.

That’s what makes the arrival of the Michelin Keys such a powerful milestone. They celebrate a broader vision of excellence, rooted in authenticity, warmth and sense of place. From Morocco’s historic riads to Kenya’s luxury safaris and Cape Town’s iconic retreats, Africa’s hospitality industry is getting the global recognition it deserves.

And if the Keys are anything to go by, could it be that soon the Stars will follow?  

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