Interview With a 5* Hotel Chef in Cape Town
This month Hospitality Jobs Africa interviews the executive head chef of the 5* Leading Hotel of the World, Cape Grace Hotel in Cape Town:
Malika - Head Chef Cape Grace Hotel
Hospitality Jobs Africa: How did you become a chef?
I was obsessed with food for as long as I can remember. My Granny was a great cook and so is my Mother, my earliest memories are of waiting for something to come out of the oven so that I could taste it.
I studied hospitality management, my first in service training placement was at the Cape Sun Intercontinental working in a high pressure kitchen, nothing beats that adrenaline rush. I knew that`s what I wanted and I`ve never looked back.
Hospitality Jobs Africa:How long have you been at Cape Grace, and where were you before that?
I`ve been at the Cape Grace for 16 months now and prior to that I spent a combined 5 years at GINJA and SHOGA Restaurants which are owned by Mike Bassett who`s been my mentor. I also spent 18 months in the UK to satisfy my curiosity for the culinary scene abroad and worked as a chef de partie in a few of Cape Town`s five star properties after I had finished my studies.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: What are the challenges you face in your job as a head chef of a large 5* hotel?
It`s a 24 hour operation, so it simply never stops. You`ve just got to be prepared for anything all the time.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: What inspires your menus and cooking style?
Using locally sourced produce and lots of flavour.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: How would you describe your food to someone who has never eaten it before?
It`s fresh, wholesome, and prepared with love.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: For young people thinking about having a career as a chef, want do you think they should know?
You need to be committed, body, mind and soul, it`s extremely hard work, but seeing a satisfied guest who`s been blown away by a dish you`ve prepared and appreciates the time and effort which has gone into it makes it totally worthwhile. This keeps you going and makes you want to create and achieve a whole lot more.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: What attributes do you require to be a top chef in the 21st century?
Lots of energy, patience, passion and an open mind.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: Who is your food hero?
Mike Bassett
Hospitality Jobs Africa: What are you favourite cook books?
The French Laundry, by Thomas Kellar, it simply oozes culinary passion, I also love Matt Moran`s books for the beautiful fresh simplicity.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: What is your favourite place to eat in South Africa?
The list is too long, it really depends on what I`m in the mood for.
Hospitality Jobs Africa: What do you eat at home?
If I`m not entertaining and cooking for friends (pretending it`s my personal perfect little restaurant) or eating at my mothers house, it`s cheese and toast.
