Mail & Guardian reporter
Food becomes theatre this month when Gauteng launches its annual Gourmet Festival in an attempt to steal some of the limelight from the Cape as the fine dining province of the country. Indeed, the festival aims to promote itself as a positive part of what its press release refers to as “a province with a heart so big and temperament so cosmopolitan you couldn’t find a more perfect setting to set your tastebuds free”.
That perfect setting is ostensibly the Sandton Convention Centre, where most of the action will happen during the last four days of the festival, from November 15 to 18. Topping the list at a specially constructed theatre of food are demonstrations by international celebrities such as TV chefs Alan Coxon and Patrick Williams, Genaro Contaldo, Jean-Claude Brugel and the sponsors claim The Naked Chef, Jamie Oliver, although seeing is believing.
There are cook-offs, a port and cigar bar, free tastings of foods from around the world, celebrity book signings, a cheese village, an olive grove lots of opportunity to gorge.
Some of the city’s best restaurants are offering excellent deals. For at least a week, you’ll be treated to a two-course luncheon plus a glass of good wine for R59. There will be celebrity chef dinners boasting unique menus, designed by internationally acclaimed chefs.
Log on to www.gourmetsa.com for more details. Tickets can be bought at Computicket or from participating restaurants.