Handmade and hand-fired ceramic tiles from Mervyn Gers
are the backdrop for Marble’s kitchen and Grillworks centerpiece. Photo supplied.

Seldom before has a South African restaurant prompted so much guessing and sleuthing, but now chef David Higgs is ready to throw open the doors of Marble, Johannesburg’s first live-fire restaurant, at Trumpet on Keyes Avenue in Rosebank. Bookings are open for Tuesday 16 August and beyond.

It’s been just over a year since entrepreneur Gary Kyriacou walked into Five Hundred at The Saxon with a proposal for David Higgs. The former Chef of the Year says, “Working at The Saxon was an incredible journey and a highlight of my time in Johannesburg, but I was longing for adventure!” He had even been looking at the Trumpet site before Gary approached him, so it all coincided like a good dream.

David and Gary on site in March. Photo supplied.

Anticipation since David announced that he was leaving Five Hundred has been high, and even though construction delays pushed the opening of Marble from May to August, the team has been overwhelmed by the support from everyone. “The finishing touches are happening and the fires being lit!” says David.

Guests can expect fire-inspired local cuisine, fantastic service and dressed-up nights out. “There’s a surprise at every turn,” David hints. “The out-of-the-fire concept will blow audiences away because it’s dinner theatre, really.” It won’t be only about red meat, however; all kinds of ingredients will cooked on the coals, from fish and poultry to vegetables and breads.

David’s earliest food inspirations come from the ritual of gathering with friends and family around the fire and enjoying simple, genuine food. He grew up in Namibia and especially remembers cooking fish on a beach fire. Marble is his chance to showcase his background and passion by raising the art of braai to new heights.