I love being ahead of the crowd, and the fact that I was one of the first to dine at the not even opened yet Saint Restaurant in Sandton tickled me pink. What tickled me even more pink was the fact that this is the coolest spot to make a statement in Joburg for sure. Be prepared for Instagram floods of cool pictures, retro décor and the jolly cool ceiling that changes colours and moods more often than I change my nail colour – cool, cool, cool!

I was delighted to be hosted by the fabulous team at American Express Card Members, who hosted some VIP guests and allowed us to be the first to put South African legend David Higgs’s new venture to the test.

The evening was also hosted by Moet and Chandon, who brought in an epic little vending machine that I loved and want to install in my home, and not only did I get to enjoy an amazing Barrata starter and an exquisite Seabass main at Saint ‘Pazzo Italiano’, the latest venture from internationally-acclaimed chef David Higgs and entrepreneur Gary Kyriacou of Marble fame but also got to pretend that I was an Amex Card Member for the evening.

“Unlocking one in a lifetime experiences and giving our clients the opportunity to be part of the thrill of Joburg’s optimism and energy, and most importantly, being there first, is at the heart of what it means to be a valued customer of Amex,” says Chris Wood, Head of American Express South Africa. “We are constantly seeking ways to wow our customers. Having an Amex card in wallet is about so much more than making a purchase, it’s a lifestyle and the experiences we are crafting in South Africa hold true to the global tag line of “DON’T live life WITHOUT IT™” adds Chris.

“American Express has long been supportive of our vision to create exceptional dining experiences for our patrons, and Saint provides us with an opportunity to continue that longstanding relationship in an exciting new setting where we will be serving dishes for people on the move – quick to prepare, but tasting and good to look at,” said Kyriacou.

While Marble has gained kudos for celebrating quintessentially South African fair, Saint sees the powerhouse duo introduce the concept of “Pazzo Italiano”, meaning “Mad Italian” – an offering which encompasses pizza and pasta as well as a range of dishes cooked on woks and an open fire.”It’s not an Italian restaurant but there is a definite Italian feel,” says Chef David Higgs.

And for Amex, a once-off dining experience is not enough. In October Amex will be hosting the Amex Dining Awards. “The short-list of restaurants are a testimony to our gastronomic brilliance in this amazing country. Look out for the Amex winners. If it’s the best eating out experience you are looking for, then this list of restaurants is the one to guarantee this.” says a confident Chris.

Saint: Shop UR 18 I The MARC Building on Rivonia Road, Sandton – booking is essential on 010 594 5888
or email info@saint.restaurant

Amex: www.americanexpress.com

I will be interviewing David Higgs on SAfm #Backtrax on Friday night 17th August at 21h30n – you can join us via live stream right here…