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Now that’s shisa nyama!

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The first seven finalists in the inaugural Shisa Nyama Awards have been chosen

Shisa nyama has become synonymous with authentic food, friends, family and good times. And, of course, loads and loads of flame-grilled meat. The Shisa Nyama Awards were created in recognition of the value of this South African cultural phenomenon.

The judging process kicked off on 1 July in Durban, when an epic epicurean team of six judges comprising editors, food critics and renowned restauranteurs visited 25 of the city’s hottest venues.

A culinary award with a difference and the only body of their kind in South Africa, the Shisa Nyama Awards recognise and reward excellence in food, service, venue and ambience. The Awards also aims to drive business to the outlets and to stimulate township tourism in a real, more engaging way.

It’s about celebrating and growing small businesses – the more establishments like these thrive, the greater the impact on their communities and the economy.

Says founder Michelle Lewis, “I wanted to tell the world about the true entrepreneurs in our society – like these shisa nyama owners – many of whom started out from humble beginnings and now command the attention of our country’s largest brands. I also crucially wanted to highlight the chefs behind the scenes who create delicious food for millions of South Africans each day but who are largely unknown.”

Durban’s top seven venues were selected through the gruelling judging process (which, let’s face it, involved eating loads of flame-grilled meat) and ranked according to a 50-point scoring system. These are:

  • Cafe Skyzer, Mayville
  • Eyadine Lounge, Umlazi
  • Max’s Lifestyle, Umlazi
  • One and Only, KwaMashu
  • Sbu’s Lounge, Inanda
  • Tate’s Kasi Grill, Clermont
  • Under The Moon, Inanda

The judges also selected a list of venues that didn’t quite make the top seven but still come highly recommended:

  • Artizen Lounge, KwaMashu
  • Comfort Zone, Clermont
  • Magic Gents, Umlazi
  • Meat Junction, Point Area
  • Emseni, Clermont
  • Kwa Thusi, New Germany

The good news for the public is that all of these establishments guarantee a full belly, great vibes and maximum customer satisfaction. The great news for the public is that the winner among these will be announced at a Shisa Nyama Festival on Heritage Day, Sunday 25September, at People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium, in Durban. Because if there’s one thing South Africans love to do more than eat loads of flame-grilled meat, it’s to party.

The Head of Durban Tourism Mr Phillip Sithole, confidently stated that the city is proud to support new and innovative initiatives that proudly recognise the value and growth of Township Tourism and its unique product offerings. The shisa nyama restaurants are one of our key tourism products that we have been actively promoting for years and has fast become a must visit experience for all our domestic and international visitors. We are proud that today, we have a selection of these well managed, world class township restaurants that are rapidly growing in all spheres of the city.  The unique culinary experience portrays the lifestyle and culture of our locals and the added exposure of the Shisa Nyama Awards will help towards the empowerment and expansion of these entertainment and lifestyle hubs, that play a vital role in boosting tourism.

For more information, check out shisanyamaawards.co.za, facebook.com/shisanyamaawards, twitter.com/ShisaNyamaAward | instagram.com/shisanyamaawards.

About the Shisa Nyama Awards

The Shisa Nyama AwardsTM were founded in 2016 by marketing and public relations professional Michelle Lewis, also founder and owner of Durban-based public-relations agency Have Your Say. The competition curator is Ingrid Shevlin, renowned journalist of more than 30 years’ experience and organiser of the 17-year-standing Café Society Awards. The judging line-up consists of well-known restauranteurs, South African editors, and food critics: Andrew Draper; Buhle Mbonambi; Dennis Ngxongo; Lungi Nhlanhla; Meleney Cunniff and Sdu Gerasch.

The Shisa Nyama AwardsTM started in Durban on July 2016. On September 25 the winner of the first round will be announced at a giant Shisa Nyama FestivalTM  hosted at People’s Park in Durban and proudly sponsored by Durban Tourism. Other festival sponsors include East Coast Radio, Bluff Meat Supply, Supa Mama. In 2017 the Shisa Nyama AwardsTM move on to Johannesburg and Cape Town to crown the best in each city, following which a national final round of judging will commence, with the winner of SA’s best city shisa nyama announced at the second Shisa Nyama FestivalTM on September 24, 2017.

More info: shisanyamaawards.co.za, facebook.com/shisanyamaawards, twitter.com/ShisaNyamaAward,  instagram.com/shisanyamaawards.

For all press queries, contact Michelle Lewis, 072 566 2551, michelle@corner57.com.

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Entertainment

Jeremy Loops to perform at Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert at the Durban Botanic Gardens on Saturday 19 October.

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Durban, September 11th, 2024 – Get ready for an epic Spring celebration as South Africa’s beloved singer-songwriter, Jeremy Loops, returns to Durban for the Old Mutual Music at the Lake concert series. On Saturday, 19 October, the iconic Durban Botanic Gardens will be transformed into a vibrant festival of live music and fun for the whole family.

Gates open at 2 PM, with the concert wrapping up by 7 PM, making it a perfect afternoon of music in one of Durban’s most stunning outdoor venues. Tickets are limited and available on Webtickets – grab yours before they’re gone!

“Old Mutual’s sponsorship of the Music at the Lake series showcases our deep-rooted commitment to nurturing community spirit and celebrating both local and international talent. We believe in the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. Our support for this series is our way of supporting the arts and the communities we serve. We are proud to create platforms where talent, family and joy can flourish in the heart of Durban’s historic Botanic Gardens,” said Thobile Tshabalala, Head of Brand at Old Mutual.

Jeremy Loops brings more than just his live performance magic—he’s back with brand-new music!
His latest single, “Go Again,” gives fans a fresh anthem to vibe to before the show. Featuring his signature blend of soulful lyrics and upbeat melodies, “Go Again” is an empowering track about facing life’s challenges head-on.

In Jeremy’s words, “Go Again is my declaration to lean into positivity, to find strength in the storm, and to bring the sunshine, even when it’s raining.” The song, co-written and produced with Edd Holloway (known for his work with Dean Lewis and Lewis Capaldi), marks Jeremy’s second release this year following “Dust Over Dunes” (August 2nd) and gives fans a taste of what to expect from his forthcoming album.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience Jeremy Loops live at the Durban Botanic Gardens. Enjoy the perfect family outing, surrounded by nature and incredible music. Book your tickets now!

Event Details:

Old Mutual Music at the Lake with Jeremy Loops

Date: Saturday, 19 October
Location: Durban Botanic Gardens
Tickets: Available now via Webtickets
Capacity: Limited to 2500 attendees
Times: Gates open 14h00 – Show ends 19h00.

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Events

REVIEW: Sunsets & Mermaids, Umhlanga

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Unwind with Great Food and Vibes at Sunsets and Mermaids

Sunsets and Mermaids Restaurant and Bar in Umhlanga, Durban, is an experience you won’t want to miss. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm smiles and a complimentary serving of olives stuffed with feta, a delightful mini starter that set the tone for what was to come.

We began with their unique sushi, featuring a delectable combination of prawn and salmon, paired with chicken dumplings that came with a choice of sauces. The hot sauce packed a punch, while the mild sauce offered a gentle, flavorful alternative—both enhanced the dishes perfectly. We paired our meal with expertly crafted cocktails: an Old Fashioned and a Margarita, each complementing the flavors of our food beautifully.

For lunch, we opted for their chicken and beef burgers, each topped with a homemade sauce that added a unique twist. The crispy onion rings and Lay-like chips were a perfect accompaniment, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.

What really stood out was the impeccable service. Not only were the staff attentive and friendly, but the chef personally came to our table to check if the food was to our liking and even offered some great recommendations. The atmosphere was electric, with the upbeat Durban music vibes adding to the overall experience.

Sunset and Mermaids is more than just a bar; it’s a culinary destination with a diverse menu that spans sushi, burgers, and even pizzas. Their Tuesday quiz nights and Wednesday Ladies Night add an extra layer of fun to the week. The place is such a vibe that even the Irish Rugby team made an appearance after their game against the Springboks!

We’re already planning our next visit and highly recommend that you give it a try too.
Sunsets and Mermaids is a must-visit spot in Umhlanga!

To book:
www.sunsetsandmermaids.co.za
(031) 943 3044
Info@sunmer.co.za


Ratings:

Service – 10/10
Location: 9/10
Ambiance – 9/10
Food – 10/10
Overall – 9/10

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Events

The Sunday Tribune Great Outdoors Expo

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The 2024 Sunday Tribune Great Outdoors Expo is coming up and it is KZN’s BIGGEST Adventure show!

The show is takes place at the Durban Exhibition Centre on the 31st of August and the 1st of September and is KZN’s premier outdoor and 4×4 Exhibition. The 2-day show brings together outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and families seeking to reconnect with nature.

This annual event has grown in popularity, highlighting the latest in outdoor equipment, travel destinations, and recreational activities. Whether you are an avid camper, a hiking enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, the Expo offers something for everyone.
Visitors to the 2024 Sunday Tribune Great Outdoors Expo can expect a diverse array of exhibitors displaying the newest camping gear, Trailers, 4×4 accessories, hiking equipment, and adventure sports accessories. Major brands and local retailers will be on hand, offering exclusive deals and demonstrations of their latest products. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore innovative tents, durable backpacks, advanced GPS devices, and much more, all designed to enhance outdoor experiences.

One of the highlights of the Expo is the 4×4 track managed by on of SA’s most experiences 4×4 drivers, Travis Duggan. Here visitors can climb inside the latest 4×4’s on the market and test the course and their nerves. Vehicle dealers from around Durban will be displaying the latest and best new vehicles on the market, which you can experience, review, sit inside and dream of your next adventure.

There is an incredible kids play and activity area, which is free to enter, where kids will be supervised, while enjoying Jumping castles, giant slides, carnival games, crazy bikes, bungee trampolines, and lots more.

The highlight of the Expo will not only the incredible exhibitors and the heart pounding 4×4 track, but there will be two of SA’s top Freestyle Motorbike Stunt jumpers, which will be taking to the sky in an ariel display each day inside dedicated MX arena.

In addition to the equipment, activities and Motocross display the Expo features over 20 Food and beverage stands as well as an indoor and outdoor Bar and live music by Tyler De Dominico, Tatum Tides and Gavin Ferguson.

Book the date and get your tickets online to avoid any gate ques from Webtickets.

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