Alix Cowie
Exploring regional African cuisine over fire with rooftop innercity views
Since his exciting pop-up at the Mount Nelson last year, chef Vusi Ndlovu has been looking out for a new summer residency for his culinary concept: an exploration of African food heritage in a creative and respectful spirit. Now he and partner Absie Pantswha are collaborating with rooftop hotspot Vue Shortmarket in the heart of Cape Town for a sizzling summer pop-up, and are looking forward to adding a new chapter of fascinating, storytelling flavour to the Edge narrative.
At the cutting edge
Vusi’s contemporary African cuisine has been making waves since winning the Africa and Middle East number one spot in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef competition, back in 2018. A strong foundation working with the likes of Peter Tempelhof, David Higgs, at In der Wulf in Belgium, and later with Luke Dale Roberts at a pop-up in Joburg’s Marabi Club gave him the confidence and creative passion to develop a style all his own. His Edge nomadic restaurant concept, forged together with general manager Absie Pantshwa, has been touring at home and abroad since 2021. Following his Mount Nelson pop-up he’s been busy in Cape Town, launching Mlilo at Time Out Market (plus a stint as consultant launching the fire-cooked menu at Boma on Bree).
Africa on a plate
The Edge X Vue collaboration promises nuanced live-fire cooking, bubbles and cocktails. Chef Vusi highlights the beauty and depth of Africa’s gastronomic heritage, culinary lore, and the abundance of the great African pantry through a menu curated specifically for this new venture.
As always, the focus is firmly on cooking the very best of Africa’s ingredients over fire and presenting them through a contemporary lens of both food and culture, using modern fine technique and his minimalist culinary style.
Choose between a five-course tasting menu and a selection of small plates for those looking for a shorter or more informal experience.
We can’t wait to see what’s on the menu when it launches in December.
Opens 5 December 2024 until end April 2025
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 1pm – 10pm
Contact 021 569 7090, info@vue-shortmarket.co.za, info@edgerestaurant.africa
Where to find it Vue Shortmarket, 108 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town CBD
Book through DinePlan
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