By Zoliswa Mdawini
The 1862 pop-up restaurant is back to add flavour to your taste buds. This eatery is one of Standard Bank’s initiatives, and it was named after the year this bank was founded. Nic from Nic’s Nest and Chef Vusi Ndlovu, the owner of the Edge restaurant, will be working together to curate the menu for this year. Standard Bank aims to combine culinary and art experiences through this temporary but yearly restaurant. “I’m hoping this is a long-term commitment for future Festivals,” said Nic.
People can look forward to a variety of rustic and African cuisine at 1862, located at 65 African Street.
Nic has more than 25 years in the hospitality industry and hopes that this Festival is a success.
His co-worker, Vusi, brings a unique touch to the menu. His signature style utilises indigenous cooking methods to meet contemporary needs and deliver an exceptional dining experience. He comes from being an egg chef to becoming an internationally experienced chef. Absie, the managing director of Fresh Yumm Culinary Experiences, says that Vusi usually says that “he was taught by masters — people who came before him.”
With years of experience and travels, Vusi says, “Makhanda is the hardest town I’ve ever cooked in.” This is because Makhanda is a small town with limited resources and ingredients needed to prepare certain dishes. However, this does not stop the team from serving delicious meals for the best National Arts Festival experience.
With all their hard work and dedication, this team aims to provide the best dining experience for people who choose to eat with them. Diners will enjoy more than just food — they will be taken on a journey where flavour meets art.
“The restaurant will be open to the general public for the duration of the Festival, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, from 8 am to 9 pm,” said Nic.
