Yaya, known as South Africa’s “Rusk Queen,” is a humble baker whose simple, homemade rusks warm hearts and bring people together. Starting as a nanny, she turned her love and care into a beloved tradition, baking rusks that taste like home and kindness. Her story spread quickly online, inspiring thousands with her generosity and connection to South African heritage. More than just snacks, Yaya’s rusks are symbols of community, love, and the power of sharing.
Chef Sanele Zikhali brings African heritage to life at Town Lodge Umhlanga through her creative and soulful cooking. Inspired by family memories and traditions, she transforms classic South African dishes like Shisa Nyama and slowroasted lamb shank into joyful meals that bring people together. Her kitchen is a place of warmth and storytelling, where old recipes are lovingly reimagined with fresh flavors. Through her food, Sanele celebrates culture, connection, and the rich spirit of Africa every day.
Tea pairing is the exciting new trend in South Africa that brings together different teas and foods to create delicious combinations. Just like wine, tea can enhance meals from breakfast to dessert, making every bite even more enjoyable. Brands like Tetley are making it easy for everyone to explore this tasty adventure by suggesting specific pairings, like bold black tea with chocolate cake or refreshing green tea with sushi. As more people embrace tea pairing, they’re discovering a whole new world of flavors that make dining experiences fun and vibrant.
South Africa is a treasure trove of unique and flavorful dishes that tell stories of its rich culture. Try “walkie talkies,” a crunchy dish made from fried chicken feet, or “smiley,” a tender sheep’s head that connects diners to rural traditions. The nutty mopane worms and hearty waterblommetjie bredie—lamb stew with water lilies—showcase the country’s creativity with ingredients. Lastly, skilpadjies, grilled minced liver wrapped in caul fat, highlight South Africa’s love for bold flavors and grilling. Each dish is a delicious journey into the heart of South African heritage, celebrating the spirit of community and sustainability.
South African cuisine is a colorful mix of flavors and stories, blending local traditions, colonial influences, and immigrant tastes. Dishes like biltong, bunny chow, and bobotie reveal the country’s rich history and the creativity of its people. Biltong, a dried meat snack, shows how early settlers adapted to new challenges, while bunny chow, filled with spicy curry in bread, highlights the influence of Indian workers. Meanwhile, bobotie combines Cape Malay and local ingredients, creating a dish that continues to bring people together. Overall, South African food is a delicious journey through culture and history, celebrating the unity and diversity of the nation.
Siba Mtongana is a shining star in African cuisine, known for her awardwinning restaurant, Siba, celebrated as Africa’s Best FineDining Hotel Restaurant in 2024. She mixes traditional South African flavors with global tastes, creating beautiful dishes like “Dombolo Dance,” which features delicious steamed buns. Siba’s culinary talent has earned her global fame through her show, “Siba’s Table,” and she inspires many with her story of hard work and passion. With each plate, she shares the rich traditions of Africa, proving that great food can connect people from all walks of life.
FYN restaurant in Cape Town is a toprated eatery that combines Japanese and South African culinary traditions to create a unique dining experience. Chef Peter Tempelhoff and his team have earned multiple awards and recognition, including a spot on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. FYN’s commitment to sustainability and collaboration with local providers and producers make it more than just a restaurant, but a testament to South Africa’s flourishing food culture.
Discover the vibrant heart of eKasi, South Africa’s townships, through its signature dishes: amagwinya, chicken feet, fried chips, and South African hot dogs. These streetside treats not only tantalize your taste buds with their distinct flavors but also offer a glimpse into the rich culture and invigorating spirit of South Africa. Each dish is celebrated for its simplicity, costeffectiveness, and practicality, making them the ideal bite to relish after an exhausting day. Embark on a gastronomic voyage and experience the unique culinary tapestry of eKasi.
La Colombe is a toprated restaurant in Cape Town, South Africa. Executive Chef James Gaag leads the restaurant with passion and commitment to quality, resulting in exceptional dishes that highlight the artistry of cooking. La Colombe’s recent recognition as Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant of the Year is just one example of the thriving culinary scene in South Africa, where restaurants like La Colombe stand as a beacon of excellence.
In preparation for Heritage Day, The Bistro at Brookdale Estate in Paarl has prepared a unique menu crafted by Chef Gary Coetzee. From September 19th to 24th, patrons can indulge in a selection of traditional South African dishes, accompanied by a complimentary glass of Brookdale’s Mason Road wine. This magnificent event takes place in the estate’s cellar, creating an exquisite contemporary Paarl Winelands dining experience.
Situated in the scenic Buitenverwachting Estate, a historical treasure founded in 1796, Beyond Restaurant presents a distinctive opportunity to embark on a gastronomic expedition this Heritage Day. Famed for its international culinary proficiency and cuttingedge gastronomic methods, Beyond is the rural counterpart to the city elegance of FYN. In a first for the restaurant, Beyond has assembled a delightful tasting menu devoted to the treasured South African custom of braai, providing a scrumptious experience to commemorate this yearly event.
Brookdale Estate, located in Paarl, is all set to celebrate Heritage Day with an array of iconic South African dishes. Chef Gary Coetzee has crafted a special menu that pays homage to the country’s culinary heritage while offering a contemporary twist to these traditional delights.
Nestled among the picturesque vineyards, canola fields, and wheat fields of Philadelphia lies a hidden treasure: DROOM @ Die Meul. This historic building was once a wagonmaking facility in the 1800s and a flour mill in 1924. Today, it has been exquisitely restored and transformed into a remarkable restaurant that seamlessly blends the past and present. The name “Die Meul” translates to “the mill” in Afrikaans, paying homage to Philadelphia’s rich heritage.
Tapi Tapi, a unique café and delicatessen, offers a culinary journey through Africa’s diverse and vibrant food culture. Founded in October 2020 by Zimbabwean molecular biologist Tapiwa Guzha, Tapi Tapi has become a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike, featuring on CNN Travel as one of the most talkedabout food venues in Cape Town.
As Mother’s Day draws near, we commemorate this day by embarking on a culinary excursion to South Africa. Here, we explore the stories and beloved recipes of three gifted chefs from Capsicum Culinary Studio, the country’s most prominent culinary school. These dishes, ranging from authentic Indian cuisine to a treasured dessert, evoke fond memories and epitomize the nurturing essence of motherhood.
Mama Africa is more than just another restaurant in Cape Town. It is a place that celebrates the rich cultures and cuisines of Africa. For more than 25 years, it has been a gathering place for people from all over the world who want to experience the vibrant flavors of Africa in the heart of Cape Town.
