FOR A TIPPLE

by Renate Engelbrecht Images: Supplied

Foods you must try when exploring Durban

One thing you must know about Durbanites is that they have quite the varied appetite and often a very different palate to that of the rest of the land. For them, pineapples and masala go hand-inhand, and spicy prawns have never tasted as good as in Durbs.

While Durban’s cuisine includes some of South Africa’s fieriest curries, their Indian cuisine doesn’t consist of curries only. In fact, you’re bound to find a unique mix of South and North Indian dishes like breyanis and pilaus here, often blended with uniquely South African flavours.

Durban’s Indian cuisine originated with the South Indian indentured labourers’ arrival at the port of Natal. They were transported on 45-day steamship journeys between 1860 and 1911 and mainly came to work on the British-run sugar cane plantations, as well as in the railway, fishing and boating industries. Today, their cuisine, cooking techniques and unique foodie flavours have been widely adopted and incorporated into many South African dishes.

INDIAN CURRY

There’s a secret to cooking the perfect curry and in Durban you’ll find it. Apparently, the secret lies in the oil (good Durban curries will have a glossy oil slick at the top), fresh masala and how the onions and garlic are cooked.

Try Cane Cutters in Glenwood, where you can sample a variety of curries, snacks and breyanis. If you’re looking to have curry in an upper-class environment, The Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga also has some great curry options to try.

BUNNY CHOW

Bunny chow can be described as hollowedout quarters of white bread loaves, filled with curry. It’s typical Durban street food and you have not been to this coastal city if you have not had bunny chow.

Try Hollywood Bets in Springfield for some of the best bunny chow in town. Another local foodie favourite is The Oriental Restaurant at The Workshop.

FRESH SEAFOOD

Since Durban is based on the coast, it’s only

TIP: natural that it will have some of the best, freshest seafood to sample. Located on the Sardine Run route, this is also one of the best South African destinations to eat fresh Sardines between May and July. Find it at local fish markets or waterfront pubs and restaurants.

The historic Victoria Street Market is Durban’s oldest market and consists of a Meat and Fish Market where you’ll be able to find some of Durban’s freshest seafood and meat.

Daring Dishes For Adventurous Palates

Durban is at the heart of the Zulu culture and evidently a taste of cultural cuisine is also a must. Traditional Zulu dishes include mogudu (tripe), amadumbi (Zulu potatoes), walkie-talkies (boiled chicken feet) and pap (maize porridge). H

If you’re a fan of fresh seafood, Pangeli in Salt Rock is the place to be. Think poke bowls, sushi tacos, dumpling bao buns, noodle soup, summer rolls and sushi. Here, the sushi addiction is real and they wouldn’t have it any other way. It is home to pescatarians, vegans and vegetarians, offering wholesome, soul food to everyone looking for healthy seafood. Vietnamese, Japanese, Thai and Taiwanese flavours make up the bulk of the menu, offering a unique dining experience to all.

Q @pangelipoke

Having been officially opened in February 1973, this exclusive revolving restaurant – the only revolving restaurant in the southern hemisphere – is an institution in Durban and a must for anyone visiting this coastal city. The restaurant is currently owned by the Reelin Group and offers delicious Italian cuisine, great wines and spectacular 360° views across Durban and the surrounding areas. Roma Revolving Restaurant is based on the 32nd floor of the John Ross House and is managed by the Leopardi brothers.

Q @romarevolving

The Great Railroad Beer Brewing Company

It started out as a hobby, but today it’s a fully-fledged craft beer microbrewery located in Shaka’s Head just outside of Ballito. Apart from brewing, the Great Railroad Beer Brewing Company also offers tastings and tours to groups no smaller than four people, and bookings are essential. Try their Dingaans Premium Lager, Shakes Impi Lager, Bohemian Pilsner, German Weiss Beer, Ballito Belgian Ale and more. They recently also added a uniquely formulated gin and tonic to their portfolio. “Currently we blend a craft gin with our specially formulated tonic water which is available in a number of flavours,” says brewer and plant manager, Gary.

Q @greatrailroadbrewing

Inverroche Gin Academy

Located in the luxurious surrounds of The Capital Zimbali, The Inverroche Gin Academy is a unique experience for those looking to become gin connoisseurs. Sign up and explore a world of flavour with these gin-making experts, while also indulging in a G&T or two. Bookings are essential and can be made on 032 538 3000 or email zimbali@thecapital.co.za.

Q @zimbaliestate