Lovely experience with a home cook! Annika was such a sweet and incredible host! I had the privilege of being the first guest that cooked with her and the experience was so memorable. I especially enjoyed her teaching style— no sitting around here, she put me straight to work (which I loved)! Annika would demonstrate a technique and then let me do it; the hands on approach made it all more immersive. I was very impressed and delighted that Annika and I prepared all the dishes I requested such as boboti, cape Malay chicken curry and even Malva pudding. I made roti from scratch for the first time, which I am definitely excited to bring into my daily life. Annika was encouraging throughout the process, always stopping to show me again as needed and never making me feel rushed. She also taught me a lot about Cape Town history and politics, showing me a side that I wouldn’t have known about otherwise. If I had another week in Cape Town, I would absolutely go back and learn more dishes from her. I highly recommend her and being around her amiable presence. Thank you, Annika!

Ruth and Colleen were were warm and welcoming from the minute we stepped into their home. We were greeted with two different kinds of traditional homemade doughnuts and fresh tea and coffee. Ruth and Colleen took their time to get to know us a little while we enjoyed the treat, before we headed into the kitchen for our cooking class. We loved making fresh samosas from scratch, mixing and forming our own meat (and no-meat!) balls, kneading the dough for our dessert, and learning all about our hosts’ families and traditions along the way! Ruth and Colleen were very considerate about my dietary restrictions, and created a vegan version of all their favorite dishes just for me while my boyfriend enjoyed the original version of everything. We had a wonderful time, and left with full bellies and a lot of knowledge on the history and food traditions of this wonderful local family and their community. The neighborhood is definitely a little drive away from central Cape Town and on the rougher side but we didn't feel unsafe. What was awesome was that there is great gated parking at the house making it easy to get in and out of.

From the moment we arrived, we felt like old friends rather than guests. Richard and Gillian were incredibly welcoming, and their attention to detail showed in the preparation and setting. They contacted us beforehand to confirm our dietary preferences and any allergies a thoughtful touch. The experience started with an introduction to one of South Africa’s culinary gems the art of braai (traditional barbecue). We learned how to prepare delicious dishes We enjoyed Malva pudding ❤️ The ingredients were fresh, the flavors were phenomenal, and the dishes perfectly showcased the diversity of South African cuisine Chef Richard’s expertise as a former restaurateur and wine enthusiast truly shone through. The wine pairings were excellent and complemented each dish beautifully. We dined in a cozy, beautifully set. The atmosphere was relaxed, intimate, and filled with laughter and great conversation. We even got to meet their adorable dog (which they can keep away if needed). We left feeling like we had discovered a special side of Cape Town one filled with heart, flavor, and unforgettable moments.

From the moment Lorette opened her door and gave us a big hug, it was as if we had come home. She is an amazing person and an amazing cook, showing us the ins and outs of preparing an incredible meal. Then we sat down and shared it with her and her husband. I can understand how people want to stay in touch with her after their visit. You truly will feel like you are now part of her extended family. Do yourself a favor and get to know people while visiting Africa. This is one of the best ways to do it, through cooking and sharing a meal with Lorette.

Jolandi is a warm and friendly full-time caterer who wants to help travelers experience authentic South African and Cape Malay cuisine. Her love of food and entertaining really shows through in the care with which she treats you. I have thought of malva pudding, a nostalgic dessert for South Africans, as a generally bland and unexciting event for me. However, Jolandi's fresh baked malva pudding with homemade custard and fresh fruit was to die for! I went back for seconds and then thirds. While I've had versions that were quite dry and bland, Jolandi's was moist and flavorful.

Fantastic evening with Rich and Gillian in their home (approximately a 25-minuted drive from the V&A Waterfront). They are both passionate about good food with the freshest ingredients. An excellent meal and conversation(s). The multi-course meal was paired with wine from their extensive cellar. They do contact guests in advance to see if there are any food issues/preferences/allergies.