SAFoodStories

In this episode of SA Food Stories, Nicci Robertson sits down with Natasha Sideris, founder of the iconic Tashas restaurant group, for an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a hospitality empire. Natasha reflects on the early risks behind her first restaurant, from selling family property and borrowing money to working relentless 16-hour days to make the vision work. She shares the philosophy that still guides the brand today, treating every location as if it were a single restaurant and obsessing over the smallest details. The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, the discipline required to scale without losing standards, and why true success is measured not in valuations but in the people you empower along the way. Thank you to our episode sponsors FNB Business and Bidfood for bringing this episode to life. Don't forget to rate, comment and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Tashas · YouTube · FaceBook · Instagram · X · LinkedIn

In this episode of SA Food Stories, Nicci Robertson sits down with food creator Naqiyah Mayat to explore how food, culture, and storytelling intertwine to shape identity and purpose. What began around a family kitchen table grew into a creative journey rooted in heritage, authenticity, and everyday cooking. Naqiyah reflects on growing up between tradition and modern life, the influence of family recipes, and the pressure many women feel to represent culture through food. This thoughtful conversation goes beyond recipes to explore belonging, creativity, and why the most meaningful work often begins simply by feeding people and staying true to what feels real. YouTube · FaceBook · Instagram · X · LinkedIn

Welcome to the first episode of South African Food Stories. Today I sit down with two of the most exciting voices shaping South Africa’s food culture, J Something and Cordelia da Fonseca J Something is best known as front-man for Micasa, but behind the scenes he has built a powerful presence in the culinary world, blending Portuguese heritage, storytelling, and a deep love of food into everything he does. From restaurants to cookbooks to television, his journey shows how food can be both deeply personal and powerfully cultural. Cordelia brings her own perspective to the table, sharing her passion for food, creativity, and the stories that connect people through what we eat. Together, the conversation explores identity, heritage, creativity, and the role food plays in shaping who we are. We talk about where inspiration comes from, how food connects communities, and why the South African food story is one of the most exciting in the world right now. If you care about food, culture, creativity, and the people behind the plates, this episode is a fascinating look into the heart of South African cuisine. Subscribe to South African Food Stories for more conversations with the chefs, producers, farmers, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of food in South Africa. Website · YouTube · FaceBook · Instagram · X · LinkedIn

Proudly South African and deliciously personal. Join your host Nicci Robertson as she explores the rich cultural tapestry that is South African food culture. Listen in on conversations with industry leaders while they discuss passion, perseverance and the challenges of being an entrepreneur in the food and hospitality industry. Subscribe wherever you listen to or watch your favourite podcast - official launch is 8 March 2026. YouTube · FaceBook · Instagram · X · LinkedIn