This will seem like a strange way to start a post about food, but stick with me.
In 1992, Dr. Gary Chapman published his first book on Love Languages. While it's been updated and refined over the past 25 years, the main principle has remained the same, and that is that we all have five different ways that we express and experience love - through gifts, quality time, acts of service, words of affirmation, and physical touch.* The list is meant to be exhaustive, but, liking to believe that I am a bit of a non-sequitur, I often say that rather than any of those, "[Good] Food is my love language. "Whether I'm cooking for you or eating with you, food is one of the primary ways I demonstrate my love, and unarguably one of the best ways to fill me up - both heart and stomach!
Thinking about it, perhaps part of the reason I loved Cape Town so much is because the food was top notch!
This post is just the food highlights from my time in South Africa. Links and prices have been included where possible, because if it's on this list, you want it in your belly!
In 1992, Dr. Gary Chapman published his first book on Love Languages. While it's been updated and refined over the past 25 years, the main principle has remained the same, and that is that we all have five different ways that we express and experience love - through gifts, quality time, acts of service, words of affirmation, and physical touch.* The list is meant to be exhaustive, but, liking to believe that I am a bit of a non-sequitur, I often say that rather than any of those, "[Good] Food is my love language. "Whether I'm cooking for you or eating with you, food is one of the primary ways I demonstrate my love, and unarguably one of the best ways to fill me up - both heart and stomach!
Thinking about it, perhaps part of the reason I loved Cape Town so much is because the food was top notch!
This post is just the food highlights from my time in South Africa. Links and prices have been included where possible, because if it's on this list, you want it in your belly!
At the airport...
Chicken raisukaree - Wagamama
Location: Gatwick Airport
Price: £13.95
Cheeky pre-flight Wagas at Gatwick before the takeoff.
If you've ever been out to a meal with me you'll know there's often one of two things I do when trying to decide what to eat. I'll either narrow it down to two things and ask the server which they'd choose, or just ask them for their favourite item on the menu and have that. Usually works out quite well, and this time was no different!
This was a chicken raisukaree (a mild, coconut and citrus curry, with chicken, mangetout, peppers, red and spring onions. served with white rice, a sprinkle of mixed sesame seeds, red chillies, coriander and fresh lime) recommended by my server, and it set me up perfectly for my flight. #happybelly
Price: £13.95
Cheeky pre-flight Wagas at Gatwick before the takeoff.
If you've ever been out to a meal with me you'll know there's often one of two things I do when trying to decide what to eat. I'll either narrow it down to two things and ask the server which they'd choose, or just ask them for their favourite item on the menu and have that. Usually works out quite well, and this time was no different!
This was a chicken raisukaree (a mild, coconut and citrus curry, with chicken, mangetout, peppers, red and spring onions. served with white rice, a sprinkle of mixed sesame seeds, red chillies, coriander and fresh lime) recommended by my server, and it set me up perfectly for my flight. #happybelly
Some sort of "spicy" chicken burger - Shake Shack
Location: Dubai Airport
Price: 80 AED (approx. £17) -_-
Going to be honest here folks, not sure what this is. Tried having a look around Shake Shack's Instagram page, but all that served to do was make me hungry. I think this may be a "spicy" take on their regular chicken burger, but as I was about the third of the way through a 9-hour layover (after a 10-hour flight which landed in the middle of the night), and halfway through the journey home when this was ordered, who knows?!
One might ask why I paid so much for this food (beyond the usual "airports kinda have you trapped" thing), and there are a few reasons.
1. I was hungry,
and
2. The squashed chicken salad sandwich I saved from the flight suddenly seemed the tiniest bit less appetising.
3. The McDonald's was hiding. Found it not even 100m away from this Shake Shack while wandering around aimlessly after eating.
4. Dubai = ballin', even if it's accidental.
5. Crinkle-cut cheese fries though! YAAAAAASSSSSS! (:
Price: 80 AED (approx. £17) -_-
Going to be honest here folks, not sure what this is. Tried having a look around Shake Shack's Instagram page, but all that served to do was make me hungry. I think this may be a "spicy" take on their regular chicken burger, but as I was about the third of the way through a 9-hour layover (after a 10-hour flight which landed in the middle of the night), and halfway through the journey home when this was ordered, who knows?!
One might ask why I paid so much for this food (beyond the usual "airports kinda have you trapped" thing), and there are a few reasons.
1. I was hungry,
and
2. The squashed chicken salad sandwich I saved from the flight suddenly seemed the tiniest bit less appetising.
3. The McDonald's was hiding. Found it not even 100m away from this Shake Shack while wandering around aimlessly after eating.
4. Dubai = ballin', even if it's accidental.
5. Crinkle-cut cheese fries though! YAAAAAASSSSSS! (:
It's snacktime!
Sundried tomato and chicken langosLangos! There was one day the girls got their food from one place, but I went somewhere different (don't worry, that one made the list too), but then foolishly decided to try a sample from this place. That's how I knew I had to have one of these before leaving. An incredible snack from the Waterfront Food Market, this deep-fried flatbread had sundried tomato, chicken, and mozzarella and was topped with rocket. This last-minute pre-dinner snack at the end of a long day, but definitely a deliciously correct one! |  |
 | (Apricot) MebosFor the uninitiated, mebos are a preserve made from dried fruit (often apricot), pulped or flattened, slightly salted, and rolled in sugar. As someone who's not a massive fan of sweets (likely evidenced by the dearth of any sort of dessert in this post), mebos were surprisingly moreish! Sweet, with just a bit of tartness) possibly why I like them so much), and vaguely reminiscent of tamarind balls for my Caribbean folks, mebos are definitely perfect for when you need a little something sweet as an afternoon pick-me-up! |
Chilli BiltongEasily my favourite South African snack, having as much biltong as possible was one of my main aims for the trip. Almost didn't get a picture because I finish a packet about 0.003 seconds after it's been opened. We found this biltong place at the waterfront on my first full day in Cape Town, and we visited a few more times - and were offered samples every visit - before heading back. They don't know it, but they're my new best friends. |  |
  | Masala Steak Gatsby |
...and for your main?
Fun facts: South African currency, the rand, is also accepted as legal tender in Swaziland, Lesotho, and Namibia; its name comes from the word "Witwatersrand" meaning "white waters' ridge." The majority of South Africa's gold deposits are found in Johannesburg with sits on this ridge.
From here on out, prices will be in rand, with an approximate conversion to GBP.
From here on out, prices will be in rand, with an approximate conversion to GBP.
Chicken shawarma - Eastern Food Bazaar
Location: Long Market Street
Price: R50 (approx £3)
While most people would be spoilt for choice at the Eastern Food Bazaar, once I knew that shawarma was an option, there was no need for me to look at another menu! A favourite meal of mine wherever in the world I am, this massive chicken shawarma wrapped in a roti was easily enough for 2 M-Js ( and that's a LOT of food)! with some epic add-ins like hummus and salsa, and at the equivalent of less than £3.15, it was pretty much impossible to go wrong with this one! #happybelly
Price: R50 (approx £3)
While most people would be spoilt for choice at the Eastern Food Bazaar, once I knew that shawarma was an option, there was no need for me to look at another menu! A favourite meal of mine wherever in the world I am, this massive chicken shawarma wrapped in a roti was easily enough for 2 M-Js ( and that's a LOT of food)! with some epic add-ins like hummus and salsa, and at the equivalent of less than £3.15, it was pretty much impossible to go wrong with this one! #happybelly
Vegetarian foldover - Lamb Fold Over
Location: V & A Waterfront Food Market
Price: R70 (approx. £4.30)
As is very clear from the picture, I had a cheeky bite of this foldover before remembering to take a picture! A gal's got to eat right?!
Took a chance, went for the vegetarian and it was definitely the right choice! This wrap was stuffed full of delicious surprises that worked incredibly well together. These guys definitely know what they're doing! If lamb is your thing, any one of these wraps is a safe bet but you know it must be good if the veggie option was my pick!
Price: R70 (approx. £4.30)
As is very clear from the picture, I had a cheeky bite of this foldover before remembering to take a picture! A gal's got to eat right?!
Took a chance, went for the vegetarian and it was definitely the right choice! This wrap was stuffed full of delicious surprises that worked incredibly well together. These guys definitely know what they're doing! If lamb is your thing, any one of these wraps is a safe bet but you know it must be good if the veggie option was my pick!
Sloth Burger - Jerry's
Location: Sea Point
Price: R180 (approx. £11)
Don't worry folks, it's not actual sloth! ...though as you'll see shortly (or if you've ever seen how I eat my pancakes or porridge), I have no qualms about being adventurous with my food!
The cool thing about Jerry's, besides their super chill and welcoming staff, was the sheer amount of burgers they offer. Included in this cornucopia were a handful of burgers named after the Seven Deadly Sins. Among these was one that, as soon as my eyes fell on its description, I felt had been created especially for me.
This Sloth Burger was my very first meal in South Africa, was a strong start if I've ever tasted one, and certainly set the tone for the rest of the trip! Stuffed with cheddar and jalapeño, topped with bacon and avocado, and washed down with a shot of Jose Cuervo and a classic mojito, this was absolutely the perfect way to start my adventures in the ever-captivating Cape Town!
Price: R180 (approx. £11)
Don't worry folks, it's not actual sloth! ...though as you'll see shortly (or if you've ever seen how I eat my pancakes or porridge), I have no qualms about being adventurous with my food!
The cool thing about Jerry's, besides their super chill and welcoming staff, was the sheer amount of burgers they offer. Included in this cornucopia were a handful of burgers named after the Seven Deadly Sins. Among these was one that, as soon as my eyes fell on its description, I felt had been created especially for me.
This Sloth Burger was my very first meal in South Africa, was a strong start if I've ever tasted one, and certainly set the tone for the rest of the trip! Stuffed with cheddar and jalapeño, topped with bacon and avocado, and washed down with a shot of Jose Cuervo and a classic mojito, this was absolutely the perfect way to start my adventures in the ever-captivating Cape Town!
The Big Stuffed Popper Burger - Mug & Bean
Location: Cape Town International Airport
Price: R97 (approx. £6)
While technically airport food, we're going to sneak this one into the mains section. As someone who doesn't discriminate against food by time of day, finishing the trip the way I started meant that while the girls were ordering breakfast, I had a last, delectable, cream cheese and jalapeno stuffed burger, smothered in bbq (or is is braai :p) sauce and topped with cheddar and onion rings at the Mug & Bean in Cape Town International Airport. Good stuff.
Price: R97 (approx. £6)
While technically airport food, we're going to sneak this one into the mains section. As someone who doesn't discriminate against food by time of day, finishing the trip the way I started meant that while the girls were ordering breakfast, I had a last, delectable, cream cheese and jalapeno stuffed burger, smothered in bbq (or is is braai :p) sauce and topped with cheddar and onion rings at the Mug & Bean in Cape Town International Airport. Good stuff.
 |  |
Mama's Wild Game Mixed Grill & Mojo Jam Jar
Location: Long Street
Price: R320 (Grill) + R55 (Jam jar) (approx. £23.20)
Now while I had some spectacular food in Cape Town, I believe this was my crowning achievement meal-wise of the trip! A wild game mixed grill with six different meats, this item was my choice as soon as I found it on the menu. Like lobster, the cost of the grill was dependent on market price, but I asked our server the knowing I'd almost certainly pay whatever it took to get that sizzling cast iron platter in front of me.
One Mojo Jam Jar and a full stomach later, I was thrilled to be able to tick warthog, venison wors, kudu, ostrich, springbok, and crocodile off my "Meats to eat" list. 😎 Sadly, in my excitement to eat, I can only remember where the warthog, venison, and crocodile were. Will have to pay more attention next time! For those of you wondering, the crocodile tasted like fish, and third from the left - whatever it was - was unquestionably the best, and one of the nicest cuts of meat I've ever had.
As for the Mojo Jam Jar! It was a delightfully refreshing mix of Mojo Cranberry Spirit Cooler and lemonade! Definitely a good choice! I was well hydrated that night! :p
Price: R320 (Grill) + R55 (Jam jar) (approx. £23.20)
Now while I had some spectacular food in Cape Town, I believe this was my crowning achievement meal-wise of the trip! A wild game mixed grill with six different meats, this item was my choice as soon as I found it on the menu. Like lobster, the cost of the grill was dependent on market price, but I asked our server the knowing I'd almost certainly pay whatever it took to get that sizzling cast iron platter in front of me.
One Mojo Jam Jar and a full stomach later, I was thrilled to be able to tick warthog, venison wors, kudu, ostrich, springbok, and crocodile off my "Meats to eat" list. 😎 Sadly, in my excitement to eat, I can only remember where the warthog, venison, and crocodile were. Will have to pay more attention next time! For those of you wondering, the crocodile tasted like fish, and third from the left - whatever it was - was unquestionably the best, and one of the nicest cuts of meat I've ever had.
As for the Mojo Jam Jar! It was a delightfully refreshing mix of Mojo Cranberry Spirit Cooler and lemonade! Definitely a good choice! I was well hydrated that night! :p
Braaiday Friday!
There's no way one can talk about food in South Africa without talking about a braai. I'd almost go so far as to say you haven't done SA right if you didn't experience (and they are an experience) a braai while you were here. I managed two (and unsuccessfully pitched a third).
While in Cape Town I went to visit my South African famalam on what just so happened to be - as Uncle Clarence has poetically named it - Braaiday Friday. I promise you all it was nothing short of magnificent. By the time all the braaing was done, there was a small mountain of various types of perfectly seasoned and cooked meat, and a bowl of steaks especially for me. A Friyay if I've ever had one.
While in Cape Town I went to visit my South African famalam on what just so happened to be - as Uncle Clarence has poetically named it - Braaiday Friday. I promise you all it was nothing short of magnificent. By the time all the braaing was done, there was a small mountain of various types of perfectly seasoned and cooked meat, and a bowl of steaks especially for me. A Friyay if I've ever had one.
Plot twist!
Grand Constance 2014 (Dessert Wine)
Location: Groot Constantia Wine Estate
Price: R583 (approx £35)
Funny story about this here box of 2014 Grand Constance dessert wine that is currently sat inside its box, inside the cool, dark corner cupboard of my kitchen.
I don't like wine. I don't even really like alcohol, but definitely not wine. Up until sampling this wine in South Africa, I had tasted exactly 1.5 wines that I "liked" (assuming we're using a very loose interpretation of the word "liked." The first was a white wine tried so long ago that everything about it beside the fact that it was a white wine escapes me, and the .5 was a sticky Shiraz from Australia that was "bordering on palatable."
Then the 2014 Grand Constance happened. This wine is not even on the list for tasting, but if growing up in The Bahamas taught me nothing else, it taught me a) what a real beach should look like, and b) how to sweet talk my way into (or out of) something.
As I said, when it comes to wine, I'm not a fan. While Steph, Sarah, and Rach were doing their wine tasting, I just sat and chilled for a bit. They were having a great chat with Salinda, the lady pouring their wine, so I wandered over, and somewhere between a pinotage and a shiraz, I asked her what she would offer someone like me who didn't like wine. Suddenly, I find myself in the middle of a spontaneous, FREE, wine-tasting of some award-winning contenders. A few cheeky samples later, and I find myself walking out with box of the surprisingly tasty 2014 Grand Constance desert wine.
What's so special about this wine then? Well, the 2014 Grand Constance has a distinctive liquid amber colour. The wine is very aromatic upfront, showing floral and Turkish Delight flavours, but time in the glass reveals more complex characters like orange peel, dried peaches, honey, and caramel. The dried fruit and caramel follows on the palate, the rich sweetness beautifully balanced by the fresh acidity. ...is word-for-word what the description says. It also sounds like what I say when I'm making fun of people tasting wine.
Basically, if you have the chance to visit Groot Contanstia while you're in Cape Town, do. The staff (shoutout to Salinda and Taylor), wine, and view are all incredible - but be warned you may leave with a few less rand than you came with!
Price: R583 (approx £35)
Funny story about this here box of 2014 Grand Constance dessert wine that is currently sat inside its box, inside the cool, dark corner cupboard of my kitchen.
I don't like wine. I don't even really like alcohol, but definitely not wine. Up until sampling this wine in South Africa, I had tasted exactly 1.5 wines that I "liked" (assuming we're using a very loose interpretation of the word "liked." The first was a white wine tried so long ago that everything about it beside the fact that it was a white wine escapes me, and the .5 was a sticky Shiraz from Australia that was "bordering on palatable."
Then the 2014 Grand Constance happened. This wine is not even on the list for tasting, but if growing up in The Bahamas taught me nothing else, it taught me a) what a real beach should look like, and b) how to sweet talk my way into (or out of) something.
As I said, when it comes to wine, I'm not a fan. While Steph, Sarah, and Rach were doing their wine tasting, I just sat and chilled for a bit. They were having a great chat with Salinda, the lady pouring their wine, so I wandered over, and somewhere between a pinotage and a shiraz, I asked her what she would offer someone like me who didn't like wine. Suddenly, I find myself in the middle of a spontaneous, FREE, wine-tasting of some award-winning contenders. A few cheeky samples later, and I find myself walking out with box of the surprisingly tasty 2014 Grand Constance desert wine.
What's so special about this wine then? Well, the 2014 Grand Constance has a distinctive liquid amber colour. The wine is very aromatic upfront, showing floral and Turkish Delight flavours, but time in the glass reveals more complex characters like orange peel, dried peaches, honey, and caramel. The dried fruit and caramel follows on the palate, the rich sweetness beautifully balanced by the fresh acidity. ...is word-for-word what the description says. It also sounds like what I say when I'm making fun of people tasting wine.
Basically, if you have the chance to visit Groot Contanstia while you're in Cape Town, do. The staff (shoutout to Salinda and Taylor), wine, and view are all incredible - but be warned you may leave with a few less rand than you came with!
And that's a wrap (or perhaps another shawarma)!
So what do you think guys? Was that enough food, or do you have an epic place to recommend for the next trip to SA? Let me know!
Until next time...
So what do you think guys? Was that enough food, or do you have an epic place to recommend for the next trip to SA? Let me know!
Until next time...
Stay hungry folks!
M-J
M-J
*Intrigued by the concept of Love Languages? Take the quiz here to find out yours!
RSS Feed
