One thing I love about Capetonians is that they love a market, any excuse to get outdoors and celebrate some sort of food or event.
This particular event was the Cape Town Street Food Festival. It is a mouthful in more ways than one. This year it was held in Woodstock at the side street studios and it was the first year the event took place. With the sun shining it was a beautiful winters day and we could not have asked for better weather!
Street food and food trucks have become a global phenomenon and rightfully so. It’s quick, tasty and unique. It’s part of the fast food track and not as formal as sitting down to eat at a restaurant. The vendors use top quality produce and all of them have a unique twist to their food. You eat with your hands and share as you go. I must say I was very impressed with the turn out at the event and even more so, blown away by the quality of the food!
Having just been to New York I could see the international influence on the food such as the Hog House brewing company. Slow smoked brisket for 15 hours it made me think of the Mighty Quinns back stateside. The twist of serving it with their unique beer was ingenious and delicious.
Although there was a fair amount of international influence I can also say it had proudly South African roots with Bunny Chows and Braai Broodtjies showing off our national heritage. The Bunny Chows were packed with flavor, the curries were sensational and of course, love it or hate it, white bread is the perfect accompaniment with the curried mince. A flavour combo that will leave you wanting more.
There were chicken waffles and gin stands, home baked pastries and Argentinian meat, wood fired pizzas and brisket rolls… who would not be in heaven?
To top off the event they had seminars held by the likes of Abigail Donnely, the food Guru and editor for Woolworths Taste Magazine who shared her knowledge with eager listeners in the food arena.
The turn out was fantastic and to see people come together with the common love of food; tremendous.
THIS is what it is all about!
I can’t wait for next year!
In true Capetonian style, the turn out and the venue will be bigger and better
-Melissa