For well-known South African food writers and restauranteurs, 2012 was a good year for food.
Reuben Riffel: Owner and chef at Reuben’s Restaurant, Bar and Deli and One&Only Restaurant
What is your favourite food trend?
Tapas — sharing at communal tables. People enjoy the ritual of eating more if they can taste different plates and share.
Who is your favourite emerging chef?
French chef Pascal Barbot, Korean-American chef David Chang and, locally, Luke Dale-Roberts of The Test Kitchen. These guys are experimenting with different concepts. I enjoy and learn a lot from people who take the road less travelled.
Which dish should never be done again?
Steak with chocolate sauce. A great French chef once said steak is great and chocolate is awesome, but if you mix the two you get something disgusting.
Where should everyone eat at least once?
The Test Kitchen in Cape Town and The Fat Duck in Berkshire, England. I enjoy the energy of these establishments and the chefs’ fun approach to dining.
Thuli Gogela: Blogger, Mzansi Style Cuisine
Who is your favourite emerging chef?
It has to be Luke Dale-Roberts from The Test Kitchen in Cape Town. I love how he plays around with flavours and textures. His food is amazing.
Where should everyone eat at least once?
Reubens in Franschhoek. The food is superb and they make excellent steak burgers for lunch. Also Pierneef à La Motte in Franschhoek. They have excellent food — South African dishes.
Read the full story: 2012: Foodies’ favourites | Arts and Culture | Food | Mail & Guardian.
