Discover the Delightful Flavors of Traditional South African Cuisine

From mouthwatering curries to hearty stews with a Dutch twist, join me on a culinary adventure as we explore six eateries that serve authentic South African dishes.

Potjiekos. Photo by Kati Auld

1. Indulge in the Richness of Bobotie at Bo-Kaap Kombuis, Bo-Kaap

I’m excited to tell you about a delicious dish that holds a special place in South African cuisine. It’s called Bunny Chow, and it’s a unique combination of flavors that will surely satisfy your taste buds. Bunny Chow is a dish that originated in Durban and has become incredibly popular throughout the country.

The dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a savory curry. At Gounden’s Restaurant and Take-Away, they serve a mouthwatering version of Bunny Chow that is sure to leave you craving more. Their curry is made with tender beef mince, sultanas for a touch of sweetness, and topped with a rich and creamy egg custard. It’s a combination that may sound unusual, but trust me, it works!

When you order a Bunny Chow at Gounden’s, it comes with a side of savory rice, cooked veggies, and a dollop of chutney, all for the affordable price of R85. The restaurant itself has a welcoming atmosphere, with a balcony that offers stunning views of Table Mountain. Inside, you’ll find a charming mix of industrial design and warm hospitality, making it the perfect place to enjoy this unique South African dish.

And don’t forget to save room for dessert! After your meal, treat yourself to a Cape Malay koesister. This spicy doughnut is sprinkled with coconut and is a delightful way to end your dining experience at Gounden’s.

If you’re in Durban and looking for an authentic South African dish, Bunny Chow at Gounden’s Restaurant and Take-Away is a must-try. You won’t be disappointed!

Contact: Tel 021 422 5446, www.bokaapkombuis.co.za

When it comes to enjoying a delectable curry in Durban, Gounden’s is the place for you. Situated in an industrial area, this hidden gem may not boast fancy interiors or fine dining amenities, but it more than makes up for it with its incredible food. Drenched in a saucy curry, Gounden’s signature dish – the mutton bunny – is a must-try for any curry enthusiast. For just R42, you can indulge in the explosion of flavors that this dish offers. And the best part? You get to eat it with your hands, letting the succulent curry seep into the bread as you take each bite. This might not be the place for a fancy date night, but if you’re looking for an authentic and down-to-earth dining experience, Gounden’s is the place to be.

For a taste of authentic South African cuisine, head over to Wandie’s Place in Soweto. While the decor may be simple, the flavors are anything but. The highlight of the menu is the Chakalaka – a spicy vegetable relish that perfectly complements any dish. Made with a mix of onions, tomatoes, beans, and a variety of spices, this traditional South African dish is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, the Chakalaka at Wandie’s Place will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. So, why wait? Treat yourself to a truly unforgettable culinary experience at Wandie’s Place.

If you want to taste the best spicy vegetable relish, there’s no better place to go than its place of origin. At Wandie’s, they serve it with bread, pap, umngqusho, or stew. The bar area is the cosiest spot in the restaurant, with messages and business cards covering the walls, including ones from celebrities like Will Smith. While enjoying your buffet meal for R115, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the local artworks on the ceiling. You can get in touch with Wandie’s at Tel 011 982 2796 or visit their website at www.wandies.co.za.

4. Indulge in Potjiekos at Chief’s Boma, Indaba Hotel in Fourways

I love having a potjie at home with my family and friends. It’s such a simple and cozy way to prepare a delicious stew-like dish. All you need is a three-legged cast-iron pot, some hot coals, your choice of meat and veggies, and just two hours of your time. But if you’re in Jozi, you should definitely check out Chief’s Boma at the Indaba Hotel. They offer a buffet with various South African dishes, including potjie. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a traditional meal with a live marimba band and beautiful Zulu-patterned pillars setting the ambiance.

If you want to find out more or make a reservation, you can reach Chief’s Boma at Tel 011 840 6600 or visit their website at www.chiefsboma.co.za.

5. Karoo Lamb at Antie Evelyne se Eetplek, Pienaarsig

When you visit the Karoo plateau, you’ll find sheep grazing on the land and enjoying the unique flavor from the indigenous shrubs they eat. As someone who grew up in the Nieu-Bethesda township, Antie Evelyne Olifant knows a thing or two about lamb and welcoming guests with authentic meals. Don’t let the mismatched plates or old-fashioned decor fool you. Once you taste the juicy lamb chops and the homemade tomato smoor, you’ll want to come back for more. This place is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

Contact: Tel 083 873 5526, www.nieu-bethesda.com

6. Bokkoms at Blikkie Pizzeria, Paternoster

Have you ever heard of bokkoms? They’re these little fish called mullets that get salted and dried in the sun. I gotta warn you, though, they smell pretty strong and taste just as pungent. The folks around here seem to love ’em, but if you’re new to this West Coast specialty, you might want to start with small bites.

Now, let me tell you about this place called Blikkie Pizzeria. They make this delicious pizza called The Paternoster (it’s R87), and it’s got some unique ingredients. Smoked snoek, marinated bokkoms, Peppadews (which are these sweet peppers from Limpopo), and onions. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion!

When you step into Blikkie Pizzeria, you’re greeted with bright turquoise walls made of corrugated metal. It’s a quirky place with vintage ads and old-fashioned cupboards. The smell of garlic fills the air, and it’s got a real down-to-earth vibe. I recommend grabbing a table outside, so you can soak in the beautiful views of the town and the ocean.

If this sounds like your kind of thing, you can give them a call at Tel 022 752 2246, or check out their website at www.blikkie.co.za. And hey, this article I’m talking about first appeared in MzansiBride back in August 2014. So if you want to dig deeper, go check it out.