Lorette's passion for cooking began at the age of eight when she baked her very first batch of cupcakes. Inspired by her mother, who taught her treasured family recipes passed down through generations, Lorette developed a lifelong love of traditional South African cuisine. Today, she is a catering professional who enjoys sharing the rich flavors, stories, and traditions behind authentic South African food with travelers from around the world. Join Lorette in her Cape Town home for an authentic South African meal or cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare traditional local dishes using family recipes while gaining insight into South African culture and hospitality. Having people over to enjoy a home-cooked meal is something I love doing. I am excited to share South African food, culture, and hospitality with guests from around the world!
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
Cooking experience: (2-15 guests) Experience authentic South African hospitality in Cape Town as you join your host, Lorette, for a traditional South African braai (barbecue) experience at her home. A braai is much more than a barbecue—it's a beloved South African tradition that brings family and friends together around an open fire to cook, eat, and socialize. Your experience begins in Lorette's kitchen and outdoor braai area, where you'll learn about local ingredients, cooking techniques, and the cultural significance of the braai. This is a combination of an interactive cooking demonstration and hands-on cooking class. After approximately 1.5 hours of cooking, gather around the table to enjoy the delicious meal you've helped prepare. Your meal may include classic South African favorites such as braai meats, hearty bredie (stew), fragrant curries, seasonal salads, and traditional desserts like malva pudding or syrupy koeksisters. If you select the optional alcohol add-on, local South African wine is included with your meal. This private Cape Town culinary experience offers a wonderful opportunity to discover South African food culture, learn about the country's braai tradition, and share a relaxed meal and conversation with a welcoming local host.
Notes:
1. If you choose the transport option, Lorette can organize a private van or minibus to pick up and drop off your group from a Cape Town hotel. Transport price is based on a group of up to 8.
2. Lorette can offer vegetarian and halal meals on request.
Languages spoken: English
Lorette and her husband, Desmond, are born to entertain and make guests feel incredibly welcome. Sit down at Lorette's kitchen counter with a glass of wine, as if you are visiting a loved family member. She is dynamite in a small package and it's very inspiring watching her cook, as well as sharing all her hints and tips with you as you go along. She's also happy to share recipes should you want to take a little bit of Cape Town home with you. Marmalade the cat might pop in when he starts smelling her chicken curry, but he really doesn't bother anyone. The neighbourhood is quiet and gives you a chance to escape from reality for a bit. Lorette has a very interesting past, including having worked as a wedding caterer and has just registered her own company. Also, a keen baker, there is really not much you can tell this lady about food! An absolute feast for the heart and soul! Very tasty dishes, generous portions, prepared in a health-conscious way, very wholesome meals. Everything was really good! It was lovely sitting down with her and her husband for lunch, as it was an incredibly relaxing environment and they are very generous and hospitable without even trying!
Amilinda and Tim, Traveling Spoon Ambassador
We had a great night with Lorette, learning about her food & culture. The meal of butter chicken & roti was great as was the Malva pudding for dessert. All washed down with a nice sauvignon Blanc. It was great to be able to go to a local home and understand food & culture. I highly recommend this experience to anyone wanting to enjoy South African food & culture in local home.- gary April 14, 2026
Loretta was so friendly and a really great chef. Her recipes were easy to follow and super tasty. We had a wonderful time in her beautiful home. The highlight was making our own roti’s and of course eating the delicious food. Highly recommend this experience.- Maddy February 02, 2026
Fantastic morning in the kitchen learning how to cook butter chicken, roti and malva pudding. Authentic and friendly !- claire January 26, 2026
Fantastic morning in the kitchen learning how to cook butter chicken, roti and malva pudding. Authentic and friendly !- claire January 26, 2026
Fantastic morning in the kitchen learning how to cook butter chicken, roti and malva pudding. Authentic and friendly !- claire January 26, 2026
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