Emazulwini: Chef Mmabatho Molefe’s New-Look Zulu Fine-Dining Restaurant

Hello there! I’m excited to tell you all about Chef Mmabatho Molefe’s amazing new restaurant, Emazulwini. This is a place where you can experience the finest Zulu cuisine in a whole new way. So, let’s dive in and discover the magic of Emazulwini together!

Picture yourself walking into Emazulwini, a restaurant that combines the rich traditions of Zulu cuisine with a modern twist. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with beautiful African decor that instantly transports you to another world. The restaurant is elegantly designed, creating an atmosphere that is both comfortable and refined. You’ll feel like you’re dining in the heart of Zululand!

Now, let’s talk about the food. At Emazulwini, Chef Mmabatho Molefe has taken traditional Zulu dishes and given them a contemporary flair. Each dish is carefully crafted, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create flavors that will leave you wanting more. From the aromatic spices to the vibrant colors, every bite is a celebration of Zulu culture and creativity.

One of the highlights of Emazulwini is the tasting menu. This is an opportunity for you to experience a variety of Zulu flavors in one sitting. You’ll start with a selection of appetizers, each one bursting with unique tastes and textures. Then, you’ll move on to the main course, where you can choose from a range of exquisite dishes, such as tender lamb stewed in rich gravy or succulent grilled chicken marinated in aromatic herbs. And of course, no meal is complete without dessert! Emazulwini offers a delightful selection of sweet treats that will satisfy your cravings and leave you with a smile on your face.

But Emazulwini is more than just a place to eat. It’s a place to immerse yourself in Zulu culture. Chef Mmabatho Molefe has carefully curated an experience that includes live music and performances, showcasing the vibrant rhythms and dances of Zululand. You’ll be transported to a world of celebration and joy, surrounded by the rich traditions of the Zulu people.

So, whether you’re a fan of Zulu cuisine or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Emazulwini is the perfect place for you. From the inviting ambiance to the mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant has it all. Come and join us at Emazulwini and let Chef Mmabatho Molefe take you on a culinary journey like no other!

Imagine dining on traditional South African cuisine with a contemporary twist. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Emazulwini, chef Mmabatho Molefe’s fine-dining restaurant.

From its humble beginnings in a cozy 10-seater incubation space at Makers Landing in the V&A Waterfront, Emazulwini has now grown into a stunning 40-seater venue. With its beautiful view of the harbour and cruise ship docks, Emazulwini offers a unique dining experience that combines delightful flavors and a brand-new menu.

Chef Mmabatho Molefe has gained widespread acclaim and numerous prestigious awards, including a spot on The World’s 50 Next list. In just two years, she has managed to captivate the foodie world with her Zulu-inspired cuisine that embraces fine dining. Her secret? Local ingredients, a touch of love, and stunning presentation.

A Taste of South Africa

Mmabatho’s new 7-course tasting menu is a celebration of home. It takes me on a journey through my mother’s kitchen, reimagining the flavors with a touch of elegance.

The adventure begins with delectable snacks that make my taste buds dance. There’s a delicate chicken neck mousse tart, a festive chicken liver paté on a chocolate crumb, and a vetkoek adorned with a tiny piece of chicken polony. Next comes a beautifully presented corn custard with parsley sauce, followed by a hearty beef liver dish with mushrooms, beetroot, and braised onions. The crispy potato pie comes alive with a burst of coriander chutney. To finish, there’s the succulent braised short rib accompanied by caramelized cabbage, fragrant leeks, and a savory jus.

These dishes remind me of home and take me on a uniquely South African culinary adventure. The journey concludes with a delightful dessert that pays tribute to sorghum. It’s a symphony of flavors, with notes of orange, banana caramel, and amarula.

Let me tell you about the amazing experience I had at Emazulwini Restaurant. The menu offers a perfect selection of wine-pairings for each course. We started with Sophie chardonnay to accompany the delicious canapés. The liver dish was perfectly complemented by a lightly-chilled Copper Pot pinot noir. And for the main course, we enjoyed the Ataraxia Serenity red blend with the succulent short rib.

The Best Views in Town

Maker’s Landing has created a wonderful opportunity for up-and-coming culinary talents. The new space offers a six-month residency to budding chefs, which can be extended in six-month increments. This unique program allows them to grow and showcase their skills in a full-size restaurant space.

Emazulwini Restaurant has a beautifully designed interior, complete with an open kitchen and large glass doors that open onto a quayside terrace. During my visit, I had the pleasure of overlooking a docked cruise ship. As the evening progressed, the ship departed, revealing the mesmerizing twinkling lights of the harbor. It was a truly magical sight!

The restaurant has also introduced a new menu, expanded their kitchen, added more staff, and infused it all with fresh and exciting culinary ideas. These changes are sure to firmly establish Emazulwini on the South African dining map.

If you’re planning a visit, Emazulwini Restaurant opened its doors on 10 November 2022. You can enjoy their exquisite food from Thursday to Saturday, with the last seating at 8pm. On Sundays, they have a special lunch service from 12:30pm to 2pm. To make a reservation, you can contact them at 060 160 2347 or via email at emazulwinirestaurant@gmail.com.

Remember, you can find Emazulwini Restaurant at Maker’s Landing, The Cruise Terminal, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. So why wait? Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience!