A Melt on the Tongue Experience from Makhanda
Monday, 21st June 2021
Like so many industries, hospitality has seen substantial shifts in business operations that has left many unoccupied beds in accommodation establishments to a decline in visitors for retailers. Businesses in Makhanda have therefore come together to host a travelling lunch from three venues with the message that even if the occupancy rates have gone down, their doors remain open to serve up memorable experiences in other creative ways.
Through Makana Tourism, accommodation establishments namely Butholam Homestay, A White House and businesses, Tumelo Trade Industries, Sip Solutions and Famous Sisa’s Coffee have come together and opened up their doors to host A Travelling Makhanda Meal – a unique take on exploring the different flavours of Makhanda.
Makhanda is loaded with historic charm, populated by interesting characters, and rich with authenticity that you just can't find in bigger places. This is why local businesses in partnership with Makana Tourism present a travelling lunch guided by the well-known Basil Mills who will provide interesting history and cultural talks during the tour.
Visitors at A Travelling Makhanda Meal will be able to experience scrumptious traditional meals that will be shared in a social gathering, wine and dessert pairing topped by an African coffee experience. Strict Covid-19 regulations will be observed.
A White House Guest House owner Jolandi Botha said the Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on her business. “We were effectively closed to the public and only trading for essential services for several months, the biggest loss in event revenue was the National Arts Festival cancellation. All enterprises experiences cycles, and with our 20-year history we understand there will be challenges and are proud to say that we took some initiative to get beyond and now look forward to the returning of good old times and new good times. We are excited to share and create some more amazing experiences and memories. I believe this is a lovely initiative to show and reassure visitors that we are open for business and that their safety is our first priority during this pandemic.”
Butholam Homestay owner Zukiswa Mhlwathika said the cancellation of the National Arts Festival particularity had an impact on her business as she has been depending on the Festival crowds every year. “The travelling lunch is a great way to restart our engines just before the Festival sets in next month. I am so excited!”
The menu:
Starters: Welcome drinks and traditional appetizers served at Butholam homestay.
Mains: Chicken potjie & samp prepared by Gourmet Caterers Cibo. This warm pot of flavour and comfort to be enjoyed at the superior and quality 4-Star graded establishment, A White House Guest House.
Dessert: A beautiful dessert and wine pairing presented by the popular Sip Beverage Solutions. The pairing consists of Winkelshoek Cape Vintage Port served with traditional Dark Chocolate Malva with Amarula Custard. The dessert and wine pairing will be enjoyed at 51 African Street which is a retail building that features businesses like Famous Sisa's Coffee, Clair's Hair Etc and crafters that sell unique and exciting gifts from paintings to clothing.
The travelling meal will end off at Famous Sisa’s Coffee with a unique coffee tasting experience where different blends of coffee will be paired with fruit.
Book your spot:
Please join us at only R120 per person!
Saturday, 26 June from 13h00.
Own transport required to the different travelling lunch spots.
Please wear comfortable shoes and carry bottled water.
We only have one rule for the Makhanda Lunch Dashers: Have fun and safely socialise with the fellow travellers... best of all, indulge on the history and culture of Makhanda and of course on your favourite food and beverages.
Bookings can be made by contacting Makana Tourism today on:
046 622 3241 or marketing@grahamstown.co.za between 08h00 and 13h00.