The Midlands Kitchen branch in Nottingham Road KZN, is exactly what South Africa needs in terms of road-side dining. The SETUP: Almost like an indoor food market experience. Different food outlets (Durban Curry, Vegan, Mexican, Burgers, Coffee, Gelato and many more). You can either order direct from each outlet or make use of restaurant section, with a combined menu of each outlet and sharp service. The FOOD: If I had to use two words: fresh and variety. I had the vegan Wular Casserole (chickpea, coriander & lentil casserole with coconut milk & red pepper) - so so yum! And my partner had a Lamb Shwarma, he couldn't stop remarking how flavourful & fresh it was. The SERVICE: You can tell many of the staff are invested in what they are doing, you can almost smell the enthusiasm. What also stood out was the speed in which the meals arrived, so fast and yet so tasty, the artisan coffee too (appropriately named Exit 132) The FYIs: The hours are 06:00 - 16:00, it is located right off the N3 highway in Nottingham Road. Great outdoor area with antique wagon & some sort of steam engine; popular for families and travellers needing a break. There is also a completely separate Midands Kitchen shop at the service station for a stop-and-go experience. Just something extra - The CSI: The Midlands Kitchen employs local from the KwaZuluNatal Midlands area. From the beginning the owners decided their ingredients would be supplied by local farmers, even though it sometimes take 3 or 4 to meet demand which means more work. But the management team is as dedicated as the owners to uplifting the community and take the extra planning in their stride. www.themidlandskitchen.co.za