The official countdown to the holiday has begun. I’ve looked at my diary and clocked 5 weeks and 2 days until I can officially say I’m out for the year. This means Christmas and all that mayhem is looming. I’m planning on getting it all done in advance and I’m aiming for a stress-free season. I am also planning a few delicious festive recipes and round-ups, so stay tuned.
Let me dive right in.
Where I’ve been eating
The Melting Pot at Oak Valley in Grabouw / Elgin
I finally made it to the now-permanent home of chef John van Zyl and his partner Sage Fell. I have followed their food journey from a pop-up to their first venue on Wale Street and it’s every bit as delicious. Their menu includes globally inspired small plates as well as a few bistro classics such as steak and chips and chicken liver parfait. You could also nibble on a charcuterie platter while sipping wine under the oaks or next to the pool. They also sell picnic baskets which you could enjoy in the beautiful garden. Their chicken burger was probably the best I’ve ever eaten. Packed with flavour in a homemade brioche bun. I cannot wait to go back.
Karen Dudley X The Vista Lounge at the One & Only
Karen Dudley has teamed up with the One & Only resort Executive Chef, Jacques Swart to bring you a few of her delicious dishes on the new Vista Bar & Lounge menu. I went to taste them all and was blown away. I cannot stop thinking about them. This menu is plant-forward and packed with flavour and texture.
The Nines
This new trendy Roof-top terrace lounge and restaurant has just opened in Sea Point. The views from 3 sides are spectacular. I went to the opening party (spot me below in this pic taken by The Inside Guide), and went back for a light lunch on Saturday. The food was delicious and the menu was fairly big covering seafood, meat, pasta, risotto, vegetarian dishes, and desserts. This new Kove Collection property is set to become the newest hot spot on the Atlantic seaboard. There is ample (expensive) parking in the building and a lift takes you up to the ninth floor.
What I’ve been cooking
As usual, I've been cooking and baking up a storm and all these recipes are keepers.
Rose meringues with fresh cream and pistachios
These giant meringues or mini pavlovas are a show-stopping dessert you will want in your repertoire. This tried and thoroughly tested recipe will impress anyone that you serve it to.
Instant Pot cheesecake with miso salted caramel
I didn’t think it was possible that a cheesecake could be this creamy. I tested my best-ever cheesecake and modified the quantities to fit in an Instant Pot. I provide all the tips and tricks to make this.
Eggs in puttanesca sauce (semi-purgatory)
This Italian shakshuka has become a go-to in my house when I haven’t planned supper. It’s made from pantry staples and comes together in 20-odd minutes. So delicious!
Cacio e Pepe air fryer corn ribs
I slather air-fried corn ribs with butter made with Parm, Pecorino, and black pepper. It’s so delicious. Except for cutting the corn into ribs part (but it’s worth it). You can keep them whole if you prefer.
Giant grilled cheese with hot honey butter
Inspired by the Cheezas I ate at Jucy Lucy growing up, this fancy cheese on toast is the most delicious and decadent treat. The hot honey butter takes it to a whole new level. Just do it. PS you can get Aleppo-style pepper at the Oranjezicht Market.
Baked Camembert wrapped in prosciutto with caramelized apples
You can find this delicious recipe on my Instagram and follow me if you haven’t already.
What I’ve been drinking
Summer is nearly here and I’m going through a big rose-drinking phase. I find it such a versatile wine for a variety of foods.
Almenkerk Wine Estate Lace Rosé 2020 is my new favourite. I’m going to make a list of my top Rosés soon to share with you.
Mixed berry margarita with jalapeno
Where I’ve been staying
I snuck away for one glorious night at the luxurious Brookdale Manor House in Paarl. I loved everything about this amazing property and cannot wait for their restaurant to open early next year. You can read all about my stay here.
What I’m watching
When I’m not consuming all the food and food content, I like to unwind by watching good quality TV. These are my recent favourites:
The Offer, Shetland (S5 &6), Candy, The Playlist, Steinheist, Bad Sisters, Rose Island, and Jan’s latest series. Let me know in the comments below what you have been watching.
Find me on
Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok, Pinterest & Twitter
Thank you for being here and see you next time for the BIG Christmas food edition. Please like or reply to this newsletter to make sure it comes straight to your inbox.
Sam x