O&L Leisure, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, proudly announces that its Ocean Cellar Oyster & Wine Bar, located at the iconic Strand Hotel Swakopmund, has been awarded the title of “Namibia’s Best Restaurant 2024” at the distinguished international World Culinary Awards that was staged at a glittering dinner reception at Summersalt Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This recognition aligns perfectly with O&L Leisure’s new brand positioning, “Namibia Through Our Eyes”. Ocean Cellar is an example of how we bring Namibia’s unique identity to life through authentic, world-class experiences. By showcasing the best of the country’s culinary heritage, this award highlights our commitment to offering guests a genuine taste of Namibia, elevated to the global standards.
Ocean Cellar embodies O&L Leisure’s core characteristics of authenticity, care and passion. Nestled along Namibia's stunning coastline, the restaurant takes pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft each dish; even serving fresh abalone sustainably sourced from O&L’s own abalone farm. With a menu that combines traditional Namibian flavours with innovative culinary techniques, Ocean Cellar stands as a testament to the country’s rich heritage, while delivering on its promise of exceptional hospitality.
Commenting on the award, Sven Thieme, Managing Director of O&L Leisure and Executive Chairman of the O&L Group, stated: “The Ocean Cellar Oyster & Wine Bar stands as a shining example of Namibian hospitality and we are incredibly proud and honoured for the recognition as Namibia’s Best Restaurant 2024 at the World Culinary Awards. This achievement reflects the dedication, care and passion that our team puts into every aspect of world-class experiences for both local and international visitors. A huge thank you to our awesome team and our loyal guests and customers!”
About O&L Leisure:
O&L Leisure is a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, dedicated to offering unique, world-class (hospitality) experiences in Namibia. With a portfolio that includes Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Midgard, Mokuti Etosha, and Chobe Water Villas, O&L Leisure is driven by its purpose of creating places where people can connect, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of ‘Namibia through our eyes’.
About the World Culinary Awards:
The World Culinary Awards recognise excellence in the global culinary industry. Celebrating outstanding achievements across a range of categories, from restaurants to chefs and food destinations, the awards are voted for by industry professionals and the public. Recognised as a mark of distinction, they represent the pinnacle of quality and service in fine dining and hospitality. The World Culinary Awards™ is the sister event of World Travel Awards™, itself inaugurated in 1994.
