Salt Slab – Texas Charm in Midlands

Alright alright alright! As Matthew McConaughey would say! The Salt Slab is a GREEN LIGHT! All the way! Now having lived in Texas for almost two years on and off, and experienced some of the best authentic BBQ in Dallas and Austen, the Scott clan were super excited to experience Texas BBQ in the Midlands! We arrived on opening day and as expected at any good BBQ joint, stood in line and waited to get...

Exploring Inland – A Traveller’s Guide to uMnambithi(Ladysmith)

uMnambithi (Ladysmith) is just under a two-hour drive from Howick and offers a historical getaway. It was initially named the Republic of Klip River, then Windsor, then Ladysmith – named after Sir Harry Smith’s Spanish wife in 1850. Known for being instrumental during The South African War, uMnambithi is a go-to if you want to get a feel for our South African past. A perfect place for an overnight stay or a longer adventure, here...

The Art of Baking

Miche Bakehouse opened its doors here in the Midlands on 1 October 2021, by Dave and Lyndsay Goncalves. Its inception was during the lockdown period when they spent time baking sourdough bread in Lyndsay’s mom’s kitchen all the way in Johannesburg. Little did they know this would end up being something they loved, from the process to the taste, they delved into different recipes and techniques, and a new business was on the rise. They...

Discovering Fordoun – An Oasis of Tranquillity

Fordoun Hotel and Spa is a little (not so little) piece of heaven that is one of the most relaxing spots we’ve ever experienced! After being welcomed by the super efficient and friendly staff, we were quickly shown to room number three. What a view! The rooms are large and comfortable with a full bathroom en-suite, which is ideal for a person who loves to relax in a bath. The hotel comprises 22 luxurious, comfortable,...

Our Countryside Chefs

Discover the maestros behind the delicious dishes at a few of our local restaurants. We chat with these chefs about their career journeys, what inspires them, and their favourite meals to cook.   From cute coffee shops and quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, the Midlands is never short of scrumptious food. There is something for all tastes, but who are the culinary masters that curate our sumptuous plates? We celebrate three of our...

Unapologetically Afro Porto

It’s quite simple – if you have ever gone on holiday to the lovely country of Mozambique, then visiting the local Mozambik restaurants is a no-brainer to help quench the cravings, from the jugs of R&R and the atmosphere to the look and feel of the restaurant and, of course, the food! With its roots firmly set in passion and its flavours unapologetically Afro Porto, the Mozambik restaurant group is fast becoming one of South...

Easter Weekend Easy Bites

You have your Easter Sunday feast all planned, but what about the rest of the long weekend? Chef Ross Birkin from ANEW Hotel Hilton Pietermaritzburg shares some scrumptious dishes for you to try at home.   Roast Butternut, Toasted Pumpkin Seed & Danish Feta Salad Serves 1 INGREDIENTS 1 half butternut, cut into evenly sized squares 80g toasted pumpkin seeds 80g chickpeas, drained and ready 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 red pepper 100g baby spinach...

Beyond the Boundaries of Taste: Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine

The Midlands food scene would not be the same without the renowned Jackie Cameron. From putting Hartford House on the national culinary map to writing international award-winning cookbooks, she has many accolades under her belt that earn her the title of the best of the best. However, one of her most significant contributions to the local area is without a doubt her passion for sharing her talent and skill with aspiring chefs at the Jackie...

Date Night: In or Out

With Love Month on our doorstep, some of you may want to celebrate by dining out while others want a cosy night in – either way can be fun and delectably done with the help of these suggestions!   A Romantic Picnic at Home You don’t need to eat out to have a special date night. Why not indulge in a cosy indoor picnic instead? Set the mood and turn your living room into a...

Make Yourself at Home

The Olde Duck is a cosy restaurant run by Jeannine Bonsma, who started it 20 years ago, sold it, and then rebought it in 2014. She has partnered with her daughter, Bronwyn Penny, who bought into the business in 2020.   The restaurant is situated on a quaint working dairy farm, Marlin Farm, in Underberg. Whether you are just passing through for a snack or enjoying a delicious lunch with friends or family, this is...