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A taste of home, served with heart

A taste of home, served with heart

IOL News28-05-2025
Chef Sihle Skwambane believes in serving meals that create memories.
Image: Supplied
If there's one meal that stirs memories and brings people together, it's the beloved Sunday roast. And at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, nestled inside the Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga, this timeless tradition is being reimagined - with soul, style, and a sprinkle of culinary genius.
Every last Sunday of the month, FireLake becomes the centre of comfort food and fine dining as executive chef Sihle Skwambane presents a gourmet version of the classic roast - a celebration close to his heart and rooted in his lifelong passion for food.
'I believe in taking traditional dishes that are hearty and full of flavour and serving them in ways that surprise and delight,' says Chef Sihle. 'The Sunday Roast at FireLake is a reflection of my journey - where the love for homestyle cooking meets contemporary creativity.'
Expect perfectly roasted meats, golden crispy potatoes, seasonal vegetables, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and a rich, slow-simmered gravy - each element carefully crafted and plated with the precision of a chef who's honed his skills across presidential inaugurations, A-list concerts and global culinary showcases.
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For the perfect Sunday Roast, expect perfectly roasted meats, golden crispy potatoes, seasonal vegetables, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and a rich, slow-simmered gravy
Image: Supplied
Born in Boksburg and raised on warm, home-cooked meals, Chef Sihle's career began at the age of nine when he started baking. Today, with more than three decades of experience and a résumé that includes collaborations with Chef Andrew Atkinson and appearances at international events, Chef Sihle brings global flair to local favourites.
'Food is about memory, connection, and emotion,' he says. 'I want our guests to sit down, take a bite, and be instantly transported - whether to their grandmother's kitchen or a five-star experience they'll never forget.'
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