In celebration of Heritage Month, Seven Colours Eatery, founded by Chef Nolukhanyo Dube-Cele, offers a soulful tribute to South Africa’s rich culinary heritage.
Situated in the vibrant V&A Waterfront, this restaurant is a warm embrace of the love and traditions passed down from Nolu’s mother and grandmothers, serving up authentic South African soul food that feels like home.
Chef Nolu’s passion for South Africa and its diverse heritage shines through in every detail of Seven Colours Eatery. The logo features her face, reflecting her identity and beliefs. In the face of the country’s challenges, Nolu remains dedicated to the idea of the rainbow nation, using food as a means to inspire unity and connection.
At the heart of the menu lies the concept of a “seven colours” meal which celebrates South Africa’s bold and diverse flavours. It symbolises the joyous gatherings of family, crafted from whatever ingredients were at hand. Seven Colours Eatery is a heartfelt celebration of South Africa, where each dish reflects Nolu’s upbringing as a Xhosa woman.
I was fortunate to experience the heartwarming hospitality of Seven Colours Eatery, being treated to a family-style dining experience that truly captured the essence of home.
As I savoured my meal, I was instantly transported to my childhood Sundays, where family gatherings filled our home with laughter and the aroma of home-cooked dishes. I thought back to making tea and coffee for my family at my grandmother’s home, eagerly anticipating the moment when we would finally sit around the table and dig into a hearty meal.
Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and shared, reminding me of the comfort and connection that comes with a lovingly prepared meal. From the first bite, it was clear that this was more than just food—it was a celebration of tradition, community, and togetherness. My favourite was the oxtail, with its rich, tender flavours that transported me back to cherished family meals, capturing the true essence of home.
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I was equally impressed by the warm hospitality. Upon arrival, we were offered drinks with the fan favourite among my colleagues was a gingerbeer-inspired brandy cocktail made with Braven Craft Brandy, a South African-owned brand crafted by a couple from Cape Town.
The restaurant also features locally produced Tolokazi beers, crafted by a brewer from the Eastern Cape. Named after a clan, these beers offer international guests a glimpse into the significance of clan names in South African culture. This thoughtful addition not only complements the meal but also celebrates the richness of local craftsmanship.
A selection of female-owned South African wines was also offered, further enhancing the sense of pride in supporting homegrown talent and businesses.
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If you’re looking for a restaurant that is not only authentically South African in the food it serves but also in every thoughtful detail of the experience, Seven Colours Eatery is the place to be. From the warm hospitality to the locally crafted drinks, every aspect of this restaurant is a heartfelt tribute to South Africa’s heritage.
Also see: Top 4 proudly South African desserts to try this heritage month
