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...

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...

Restaurant Review: Wimpy Howick

Every South African knows and loves their local Wimpy – it’s been a part of our culture since the franchise first opened in Durban in 1967. As we walked into Wimpy Howick, we were invited by a relaxing, friendly atmosphere. We had a cosy table by the window that gave us enough privacy to enjoy ourselves, and we could’ve sat there for hours chatting amidst the other patrons. It’s the perfect space to sit back...

Sun, Sand, & Cocktails

Escape to the pristine North Coast and the lovely town of Ballito for a coastal holiday with this guide created by the locals just for you! Have you ever wanted to escape? Not like a fugitive, but more to have an adventure or holiday. The Midlands is an easy escape for the concrete jungle residents or people who adore nature, but what about the locals who eat, sleep and breathe this area? Where is your...

Leaving a Legacy

  Sometimes being legendary happens, and other times we need to make it happen, which is a bit of both in Mongezi’s case. “Legacy” is a loaded word we often associate with leaving, as in “leaving a legacy”. It’s a big deal and a lot of responsibility. Have you ever thought about the legacy you would like to leave one day? You might need a moment to think about it.   While you think about...

Explore the Gems of Hilton

We visited a few spots worth mentioning in Hilton, from beauty to bread, hotels, and railway stops! A unique few gems guaranteed to fulfil your needs – whether you are hungry or need a haircut!   Welcome to Hilton, although it’s not a very big place, nestled between Pietermaritzburg and Howick, it still offers a large selection of things to do, see and eat! Follow us as we take you on a small tour, highlighting...

Café  Classic: The Classy, Local Coffee Shop

Café Classic opened in July 2014, and they are no ordinary service station café. You will notice something quite special about them from the moment you walk through the door!   Starting with the most important thing, their Café Classic Coffee is roasted as per strict instructions ensuring that they have the very best cappuccino in the area. All of their delicious cakes and teatime treats are made right here on-site in their kitchen. Try...

BOMA Food Bar at St Ives

Built on family foundations, BOMA Food Bar at St Ives is perfect for any sort of gatherings, such as birthdays (adults or kids), family reunions or just mates wanting to watch the rugga or get together and enjoy BOMA’s famous pizzas. Boasting a huge playground with a mini zipline and a trampoline, the kids can have fun and get rid of all their energy while the parents are free to chat, eat and drink in...