Local and Lekker: Chantelle's Kitchen at 10 Cross Street
Saturday, 9th August 2025
Once part of the 1820 Settler cottages, 10 Cross Street now hums with the smell of freshly baked goods, brewed coffee, and homegrown hospitality. Here, Chantelle’s Kitchen serves up heritage-rich recipes — from her grandmother’s milk tart to her perfected “koeksisters” — alongside breakfasts and frozen meals made with love.
“We’re proudly ‘Local & Lekker,’” says Chantelle. “About 80% of our products are locally sourced.”
Despite challenges like frequent power outages, Chantelle’s commitment to her craft never wavered. Solar power keeps the ovens warm, while a welcoming smile greets every visitor.
She has mentored six young women in her kitchen, passing on not just recipes, but confidence and skill.
“If you have a dream, pursue it with passion. Work hard, believe in yourself, and you’ll be rewarded.”
For travellers and locals alike, 10 Cross Street is more than a café — it’s a taste of Makhanda’s heart.
Let's learn more about Chantelle's journey:
1. Please can you share some of the key experiences or turning points in your personal or professional life that led you to this field?
I have always been passionate about cooking, baking, and creating delicious food in my kitchen. Most of the dishes and frozen meals I prepare are my own recipes. My milk tart recipe was passed down from my grandmother, while the beloved koeksisters recipe is one I developed myself after experimenting with various versions until I found the perfect one—a favourite of mine throughout my life. At 10 Cross Street, Chantelle's Kitchen operates from the back of the establishment, where all our food is carefully prepared before being sold in the front shop.
2. What aspects of the work keep you motivated or inspired to stay in this space?
I thoroughly enjoy interacting with the customers who visit our shop and seeing their smiles and satisfaction when they receive excellent service. Our shop maintains a warm, positive atmosphere, which is essential to our business and keeps me inspired.
3. How does your work contribute to the tourism, culture, or heritage of Makhanda and the rest of the Makana region?
10 Cross Street is a must-visit destination for visitors to Grahamstown, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy locally made coffee, breakfast, and other products. Approximately 80% of our goods are handmade and locally sourced from Makhanda. Our brand identity, Local & Lekker, reflects our commitment to supporting the local community and celebrating our heritage.
4. What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and how have you overcome them?
Running a business in Makhanda comes with challenges such as poor service delivery, frequent electricity outages, and inadequate road infrastructure. To overcome these, I have invested in solar power to ensure business continuity and maintain profitability despite these obstacles.
5. What message would you like to share with the next generation of women and girls in the Makana region and beyond?
My message to women and future generations in Makhanda is one of perseverance and dedication: if you have a dream, pursue it with passion and give your best effort. I have mentored six girls in my kitchen, teaching them my recipes and cooking techniques. My advice is to stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself—your efforts will be rewarded.
