Cape Town began as a trading outpost to provision the ships of the Dutch East India Company which were sailing precious cargos of spices around the Cape of Good Hope to their customers in Europe. Cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, coriander, cloves, cumin, turmeric and pepper were common ingredients in dishes cooked by the slaves, who came from those same lands in South East Asia as the spices themselves.

The BoKaap (meaning Upper Cape), Cape Town’s oldest residential neighbourhood, is known for its colourful houses, steep cobbled streets and mosques. Descendants of the slaves still make up the majority of the population, and the Cape Malay cuisine is a part of their heritage which has become part of every Capetonian’s life.

Cape Malay dishes include a variety of curries, baked dishes, savoury snacks and desserts. The spices are mild, fragrant and aromatic, rather than being hot.

Spend a morning or afternoon in the home of a local BoKaap resident for whom cooking Cape Malay is part of everyday life. With their help, as part of a fun interactive experience, make a delicious meal: traditional curry, a roti, sambals, chilli bites, and learn the art of folding samoosas. Get to know your friendly host, enjoy their hospitality, and then sit down to enjoy your meal together at the table, with some cardamom tea or juice.

Vegetarians are catered for.

You don’t need a guide to accompany you, so you can take a taxi or Uber to the house.

The address details will be given upon booking and payment.

If it fits in with any other touring before or after, you can be dropped off and/or picked up accordingly.

Timing: The whole activity including eating lunch takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Price: R800 (South African Rand) per person

To inquire about or book this or any other tours, please click here.