If you missed it, catch up on our previous edition of #FreshlyPlated here.
The latest news
Freddie Dias appointed executive chef at Steyn Entertainment
In Johannesburg’s vibrant heart, Steyn Entertainment is spearheading a culinary revolution, with The Marabi Club at its epicentre – now boasting the innovative menu of newly appointed Executive Chef Freddie Dias. A seasoned chef with a background at Cape Town’s Pot Luck Club, Dias is infusing his expertise into The Marabi Club and Thorn restaurant, both housed in Hallmark House.
This transformation is part of a broader vision shared by Dias and his colleagues, Dale De Ruig and Sicelo Mayiyane, to blend gastronomy with jazz, creating an immersive sensory experience. Beyond culinary artistry, Dias is committed to mentoring emerging chefs and contributing to the evolution of South African cuisine. Watch this space.
New Tashas opens at LXX Sandhurst
LXX Sandhurst has transformed the former IBM campus into a luxury shopping and dining destination, home to a chic new Tashas. This popular restaurant is in good company among the likes of Dough & Co, Toast & Co, Cowfish, and Mosso at the centre, altogether offering a diverse range of experiences from lifestyle shopping to everyday conveniences. Read more about this luxury shopping complex, which opened in mid-2024, here.
Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa partners with Luke Dale Roberts
In the lush expanse of Limpopo’s Welgevonden Game Reserve, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa is redefining the safari dining experience by partnering with esteemed Chef Luke Dale Roberts. Known for his culinary prowess, Roberts is infusing the lodge’s offerings with an array of multi-course menus, expertly paired wines, and handcrafted cocktails, all served amidst the untamed beauty of the African bush. This partnership promises to enhance the already exceptional service at Mhondoro, with a focus on skills development for the in-house team, ensuring that each meal is not just a dish, but a journey through South Africa’s rich flavours and traditions. Read our review of Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa here.
Signature celebrates 15-year milestone
From the beginning, founder and CEO Desmond Mabuza knew he wanted to do something different with Signature – a restaurant tucked within Morningside Shopping Centre that defies the ordinary with its destination dining experience and stunning views. Celebrating its 15th anniversary with a new wine label, Signature’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its low staff turnover and the culture of connection it nurtures, solidifying its status as a bastion of fine dining. Read our interview with Mabuza here.
Brunch buzz in Joburg
A weekend ritual, Joburg’s brunch scene is unmatched, and there’s no finer way to welcome the weekend than with a leisurely brunch at a local café. Imagine sipping robust coffee and toasting with mimosas under the sunlit terrace. Birdhaven’s Arbour Café enchants a French-inspired courtyard and brunch favourites, while Breezeblock Café in Brixton offers a retro ambience with unique specialities. De Baba Eatery in Melville is a hip homestead of farm-style delights, and Father Coffee Kramerville, the 'Father Coffee HQ’, tempts with all-day brunch options. Meanwhile, Flames at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff presents a sumptuous Sunday brunch buffet against the backdrop of panoramic city vistas. Get your Joburg brunch on here.
Kota takes centre stage at Street Food Cafe
A taste of Maboneng’s Street Food Cafe is a vibrant testament to South Africa’s street food culture, where the kota – a quarter loaf filled with an eclectic mix – reigns supreme. Each kota, from the ‘Cyril Ramaphosa’ to the ‘DBN Gogo’, is a flavourful homage to the nation’s icons. Sharing a kota here doubles the enjoyment, echoing the local sentiment that good food is best enjoyed in good company. Read about this unique part of South African cuisine here.
Akido's authentic Japanese
Beneath The Leonardo in Sandton, Akido is a haven of authentic Japanese cuisine. With limited seating, it offers an intimate atmosphere where the art of sushi is revered. Head Chef Earl Akido’s dedication to authenticity is evident in every dish, making Akido a must-visit for sushi connoisseurs and novices alike. The experience is enhanced by thoughtful touches like warm towels and complimentary edamame. Read more about this memorable dining experience here.
Beijing Opera Pantry pops up at 44 Stanley
Beijing Opera’s semi-permanent pop-up at 44 Stanley celebrates pan-Asian cuisine, continuing the legacy of its Cape Town origins with communal dining and beloved dim sum. The expanded menu offers a fusion of flavours in a relaxed setting, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re savouring your meal in the serene courtyard or opting for the convenience of takeaway, everything about Beijing Opera is crafted to be as delightful and memorable as the dishes themselves. Read why we couldn't be more excited about this.
Obento Ramen Bar’s noodle nirvana
A cosy spot in Parkmore, Obento Ramen Bar is all about culinary passion, born from lockdown creativity. While others were mastering sourdough, co-founder Ling Chiu was perfecting ramen bowls and dim sum, sharing her creations on Instagram to such acclaim that it spurred the launch of a frozen meal service and a market stall. Fast forward to winter 2021, and the clamour for Chiu's flavours led to the opening of a brick-and-mortar eatery with Daniel Liu, complete with a simple yet sublime menu featuring six starters, three rice dishes, and five ramen varieties that shine –particularly the spicy Korean chicken and cha siu bao. Read more about this compact noodle bar that packs a punch here.
Basalt’s farm-to-table feast
Farm-to-table Chef James Diack’s restaurant, Basalt at The Peech Boutique Hotel offers a ‘refined dining’ experience with a tasting menu sourced from his organic farm. Since February 2023, this collaboration has been delighting diners with a relaxed yet sophisticated tasting menu that feels like a warm embrace. The Peech, known for its exceptional hospitality, mirrors the comforting allure of Diack’s dishes. With 80% of Basalt’s ingredients coming straight from his family farm, diners can taste the commitment to quality and sustainability in every bite.
Eat Chinatown on Bolton Road
Discover the flavours of the East at Eat Chinatown, the latest eatery on Bolton Road, where the essence of Chinese cuisine is served without breaking the bank. From the crunch of prawn crackers at R30 to the tangy delight of sweet and sour prawn curry at R95, the menu is a parade of affordable indulgences. Savour the goodness of free-range beef and treat the little ones to a feast of cheesy noodles and free-range chicken nuggets for just R60. It’s a culinary journey that promises satisfaction for every palate, big or small.
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