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Celebrating Africa Day at Town Lodge Umhlanga

As Africa Day on Sunday, 25 May approaches, City Lodge Hotels is celebrating the incredible culinary talent in its kitchens. At its Town Lodge Umhlanga property, one name stands out: Chef Sanele Zikhali. Passionate, driven and creative, she’s the heart behind the hotel’s most-loved dishes, with her Shisa Nyama leading the flavour parade.

Sanele’s culinary journey took courage:

“My passion for cooking began with the joy of creating dishes and experimenting with flavours. I knew early on that I wanted to pursue a career as a professional chef, but the definitive decision was made at university. Although I was studying for a Bachelor of Education, I realised my true calling lay elsewhere. I craved creativity and artistic expression, so after a year, I left university to pursue my culinary aspirations. It was a bold move, but one that ultimately set me on the right path.”

Her training journey at college was all about learning culinary skills and building relationships, making new friends and embracing the enriching and exciting experience.

“My cooking at Town Lodge Umhlanga continues to evolve and is a testament to my dedication and love for the craft. Although the culinary profession can be physically demanding and challenging, it’s also incredibly fulfilling. Working with the team every day has taught me valuable lessons, and the appreciation from those who enjoy my food, has made it all worthwhile. The dish that guests love the most is the Shisa Nyama,” she says.

For Sanele, food is tied to deep emotion:

“My favourite home-cooked meal is a beef goulash and steamed bread. My mother used to cook it for us when my siblings and I were young, especially at winter time. Every time I cook it now, I’m reminded of my childhood and it also excites my mom.”

The Seven Colours Sunday tradition is especially close to her heart:

“It’s more than just a dish with colourful ingredients – it’s time for family to come together, like a joyful gathering after church, and creating lasting memories with the people you love.

Chef Sanele in brief:

· Favourite ingredient: Garlic

· Least favourite flavour: Sour

· Top kitchen tool: Her trusty knife

· Always in stock: Eggs and jam

· Favourite restaurant: Ocean Basket

· Dream foodie trip: Paris

· Chef she admires: Onezwa Mbola

· Comfort food: Pasta

· Food trends she’d end: Devilled Eggs and Chicken à la King

As City Lodge Hotels continues to honour heritage and homegrown talent, chefs like Sanele remind us that the best stories are told through food.