Good Food

The Chefs’ Table

Umhlanga 

This polished dining room strikes the rare balance of elegance and ease. From the moment you step in, the vibe is sophisticated but unpretentious, sleek finishes meet warm lighting, and both food connoisseurs and casual diners feel at home. The menu showcases premium ingredients with contemporary techniques, while the bar adds polish with meticulously crafted cocktails and pre-dinner apéritifs. Beyond daily service, curated wine evenings and intimate date nights turn meals into moments. For private occasions, the exclusive dining room offers discreet business lunches or celebrations. It’s Umhlanga’s gem for exceptional cuisine without stiffness or excess.

Address: 25/28 First Floor, Protea Mall, 1 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga Rocks

Tel: 031 001 0200

Dough Girl
Hillcrest
Tucked in a quiet office park off Old Main Road, Dough Girl feels like Hillcrest’s hidden exhale. The vibe is warm, unpolished, and buzzing with creative energy. Think flour-dusted counters, the smell of real butter, and indie chatter over Blue Bird Coffee. It’s intimate but playful, with classics on the counter daily, midweek surprise treats and “go rogue” weekend drops that turn the bakery into a flavour lab. Courtney built it from her mum’s kitchen to a two-kitchen café, so the atmosphere feels personal, hands-on, and community-driven. Every visit has that “sweet escape” feeling, flaky croissants, rich brownies, and the kind of laid-back warmth that makes you stay for one more cookie.

Address: Suite 1C, Strangeways Office Park, corner Old Main Road and Warrior Road, Hillcrest
Tel: 068 784 0175

The Woodfire Table Bakery

The Midlands
This bakery brings the smell of woodfire and fresh dough right to the heart of the community. Offering a warm, unhurried, and proudly local atmosphere. With shelves lined with freshly baked breads, sweet treats, and buttery pastries made daily. Everything’s baked fresh on site, so you get that just-out-the-oven comfort whether you’re grabbing a loaf or lingering over a treat. It’s Howick’s cosy stop for real bread and community spirit.

Address: St John’s Lifestyle Centre, 1 Karkloof Road, Howick
Tel: 073 722 1459

Kung Thai
Ballito 
This award-winning Thai restaurant has rolled into Salt Rock with the energy of Bangkok’s street kitchens and coastal markets. The vibe is relaxed and flavour-driven, from casual sit-down meals to quick takeaways, and that unmistakable aroma of lemongrass, chilli, and coconut hits you at the door. Inspired by Thailand’s bustling streets, the menu is authentic and aromatic, built for sharing or solo cravings. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing your favourites to go, Kung Thai keeps it fresh and absolutely Thai-riffic. It’s Salt Rock’s go-to spot for a laid-back escape into bold Thai flavours without the flight.

Address: Shop 2B, New Salt Rock Centre, 1 New Salt Rock Drive, Ballito
Tel: 076 015 2244