I am officially on leave for a month. Well nearly; as soon as I have finished this last newsletter for the year!

It has been a fun year of dazzling eating. Dishes have challenged my taste buds and spurred them on to do small somersaults.

Local chefs have produced astonishing dishes and the top restaurants in South Africa have shown tremendous talent, continuing to push the boundaries in terms of creativity, confidence and full-on flavour.

The team and I have also discovered some true gems; authentic eateries that deliver simple, good and honest food that's affordable and not fancy. These places might not call for too much lingering, but the food is begging to be eaten with relish.

We have a country blessed with so many fantastic eating destinations so let’s raise our glasses to all our culinary stars. Go back to your favourite places to be amazed; to eat, drink and be merry. This is where the magic happens.

Happy holidays and hope there are many happy meals and cooking.
Speak in the new year,

Abigail