I have often spoken about how I rather like a buffet. This past weekend I was back at it again, this time feasting on an array of Indian delights. One of the Eat Out reviewers had recommended it, saying it was just up my street. It was, in fact, up many streets until – after an hour – a very kind Chubb security chap escorted myself and my colleague, Annette, to Jaipur Palace in Durban North. It was well worth it, though. (In terms of price, too!) The buffet is R120, which includes two coldrinks, and the offerings are quite something.

Brilliant prawn and crab curries; a lamb and trotter option; superb dried broad beans; and endless spicy and buttery chicken curries. Add piles of chapatis, rotis, naans and dosa to mop up the spicy gravies. And then, of course, all the sambals and authentic desserts, especially the coconut steamed pudding with a condensed milk vermicelli custard.

There are so many of these places that I need to show off to Bruce Palling, who will assist me in deciding which are this year’s Top 10 restaurants for the Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards.

I can't wait to welcome him to our incredible industry, and blow him away with all the special restaurants that he will visit whilst in South Africa. We are busy planning his itinerary as well as something additional to the awards that we are extremely excited about – all of which I will share with you very soon.

If you are visiting the Midlands and fancy a good old-fashioned pub lunch or dinner, then Rawdons is perfect. Try the rich oxtail and bean casserole with creamy mash, or a plate of meltingly tender lamb shanks, as I did. It was difficult to decide though, as the steak pie and ale (they brew their own) looked all puffed up and golden at the table next to us.

I do hope there will be a next time!
Abigail