Food
Through the eyes of an African Chef
The evening was held is a very relaxed setting that welcomed us with an aroma of promise. We were eager to lay our eyes on the “African Chef”, Chef Nompululeo Mqwebu who was bound to deliver an array of delightful surprises!
Chef Nompululeo was introduced by Victor Dlamini and her achievements were brilliantly highlighted in an interactive and conversational manner. With grace and elegance, she has managed to connect us with our heritage and history and the familiar flavours that go along with that.
A course of canapés was served with elegant wines to match. The flavours reminded one of home and deep-set tradition with a spicy flair. Amongst these were the Inyama Yenyamazane served with chackalaka which turned out to be a firm favourite. A surprisingly light Amadumbe Gnocchi with Basil Pesto ended the course off in a subtle, yet delightfully tasteful manner. We couldn’t decide whether to have more of the Inyama Yenyamazane or the creamy Gnocchi. One of the guests, a Ballito local, describes the flavours as “very traditional with an unusual swoosh”. Entertainment for the evening consisted of a collection of Frank Sinatra songs, covered by Njabulo Nzuza, which gave the audience and guests a feeling of warm nostalgia, setting a light and relaxed tone for the rest of the evening.
Chef Nompululelo describes her journey to Ireland, where her passion for African cooking and taking it to new heights, really came to life. Her cookbook tells of the traditional food that she came to experience with her family and finding a new way of serving these cornerstones of South African society. A particular recipe that stands out, is that of the BunnyChow and she reminisces over the tale that her grandfather told her about how this particular dish came to be.
Phindi Gule, Kevin, Tony and Thami Nkadimeng
Her book has recently sold various copies at the Frankfurt Book Festival and has also been featured in the Great South African cookbook, but she refers to these amazing achievements very humbly as she is far more concerned with the integrity of the food that she serves and sharing this with the international market.
She goes on to share her view on sustainable living and empowering the farmer and cutting out the middleman in the process, she is passionate about reclaiming South African ingredients and celebrating our shared heritage, she encourages the youth to take our local favourites and finding new ways to fuse this with European cooking, keeping the world captivated by what South Africa has to offer.
If you are proud to be South African and looking for interesting and authentic ways to serve old favourites worthy of 5 stars – this book is just for you, because this book is a “cultural education, cultural barrier-breaker and bridge builder amongst people…. Because food is the doorway to cultural experienced” as described by the Food stylist and founder of Food Art.
The future is bright for the passionate Chef Nompululelo.
BOOK SALES
The book is available at all good book stores and online at http://throughtheeyesbook.com/#buy
Bianca Hauser and friend
Author: Durbanite
Step into the heart of the home and discover what’s hot in the kitchen! The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2025 is turning up the heat, with a spotlight on the latest and greatest in kitchen design, tech, and taste. Whether you’re a gourmet guru, a microwave maven, or a “dinner’s on Uber Eats” kind of cook, this year’s Show is where you’ll want to be.
“We’ve got our eye on kitchens this year” says Show Director Cairey Baxter-Bruce. “Kitchens are the new hangout zones. It’s not just about cooking anymore. It’s about creating a melting pot of style AND function. A space that can be both beautiful AND practical. It’s about effortlessly making the heart of your home something seriously cool.”
It’s all about fresh spaces. bright living, and there’s no space more vital, or more vibey, than the kitchen. Keep your eye on the Show floor for the hottest new trends. Think bold colours, open shelving, statement taps, and multifunctional islands. We’re dishing up this year’s hottest styles, like retro curves and throwbacks, the rise of the “office kitchen”. You’ll leave with more than just kitchen envy. You’ll have the tips, tricks and contacts to make your dream kitchen a reality.
In the mood for a makeover? Whether you’re going big on a full-scale reno, making a few sleek updates, or just need the perfect finishing touches, this is where inspiration meets expertise. Chat to the pros of cabinetry and solid wood advice from the team at Mistrys. Explore sleek, customised storage solutions with Cupboard Value, check out the latest finishes and surfaces at Veneer-It, and Visit The Michael House Kitchens for tailored craftsmanship and personal service.
Also on our radar… don’t miss one of the most exciting features on the Show floor: The Kitchen Studio. As South Africa’s largest and most respected customised kitchen and cabinetry manufacturers, The Kitchen Studio is showing up in a big way, with not one, but three exhibition stands showcasing over 30 years of design mastery. From sleek, contemporary kitchen concepts to a swoon-worthy bedroom installation, their exhibits are packed with inspiration. Expect premium finishes like imported stone, natural veneers, and solid timber details you can literally run your hands over. Many of their materials are responsibly sourced, biodegradable, or natural, proving that sustainable design can still bring that serious WOW factor.
They’re not just about good looks either. The Kitchen Studio blends form with function through cutting-edge kitchen tech. Remote-controlled extractors, concealed appliances, and sleek innovations can make everyday living smarter and more seamless. Some of these future-forward features will be demonstrated live at the Show, giving you a sneak peek at the next evolution in kitchen convenience.
Oh! And just wait until you see what they’ve done with the Hirsch’s Demo Kitchen. It’s smart. It’s sleek. It’s fully loaded. And the best part… it’s up for grabs. One lucky Show visitor will walk away with their forever-kitchen! That’s how we roll at the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show!
And don’t forget – it’s the school holidays!
Drop the kids at the epic new Kids Zone while you explore the Show in peace. With daily demos, delicious experiences, and expo-only deals, this is your one-stop destination for fresh ideas and future-forward living. Kitchen goals? Sorted. Inspiration for days? Absolutely. The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show runs from 28 June to 6 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre, and is stirring up styles, so come hungry for inspiration and ready to shop.
Author: Shelley
Experience the charm and thrill of live entertainment at The Barn.
Expect an exciting lineup filled with incredible music, unforgettable moments and the perfect setting for a great time out.
Friday, 30 May
🎸 17:00 to 20:00 – Stewy
Saturday, 31 May
🏉 18:30 – Sharks vs Munster
Sunday, 1 June
🎶 11:00 to 14:00 – Trevor Donjeany
🎙️ 15:00 to 18:00 – The Kickstands
Author: Shelley
A Taste of Home, Served with Heart!
If there’s one meal that stirs memories and brings people together, it’s the beloved Sunday roast. And at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, nestled inside the Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga, this timeless tradition is being reimagined — with soul, style, and a sprinkle of culinary genius.
Every last Sunday of the month, FireLake becomes the epicentre of comfort food and fine dining as Executive Chef Sihle Skwambane presents a gourmet version of the classic roast — a celebration close to his heart and rooted in his lifelong passion for food.
“I believe in taking traditional dishes that are hearty and full of flavour and serving them in ways that surprise and delight,” says Chef Sihle. “The Sunday Roast at FireLake is a reflection of my journey — where the love for homestyle cooking meets contemporary creativity.”
Expect perfectly roasted meats, golden crispy potatoes, seasonal vegetables, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and a rich, slow-simmered gravy — each element carefully crafted and plated with the precision of a chef who’s honed his skills across presidential inaugurations, A-list concerts and global culinary showcases.
Born in Boksburg and raised on warm, home-cooked meals, Chef Sihle’s career began at the age of nine when he started baking. Today, with more than three decades of experience and a résumé that includes collaborations with Chef Andrew Atkinson and appearances at international events, Chef Sihle brings global flair to local favourites.
“Food is about memory, connection, and emotion,” he says. “I want our guests to sit down, take a bite, and be instantly transported — whether to their grandmother’s kitchen or a five-star experience they’ll never forget.”
Set against panoramic ocean views and paired with live entertainment, FireLake’s Sunday Roast between 12h30 and 15h30 is more than just a meal — it’s an experience, an escape, and an expression of Radisson Blu’s warm hospitality.
For more information or to make a reservation, contact +27 31 575 8500 or email info.durban.umhlanga@radissonblu.com
Author: Shelley
-
Community4 weeks agoOld Mutual Music at the Lake celebrates Father’s Day with Just Jinjer and Watershed live on Sunday 15 June
-
Entertainment3 weeks agoThe Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival returns to Durban this June
-
Community2 weeks agoIt’s Show Time! The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show
-
Attractions6 days agoA Durbanite’s Guide: What to do with the kids these school holidays