From Cape Town to Palestine: Chefs Mmabatho Molefe and Sami Tamimi pop-up in London this summer

London continues to serve as a global culinary hub, blending cultures, flavours and cuisines from around the world. This summer, two events promise to further elevate the capital’s gastronomic reputation. Prepare for a culinary journey that will transport you from the bustling streets of Cape Town to the scenic coastlines of Palestine – all from within zone 1.

Carousel’s 300^th residency: A Zulu culinary voyage with Mmabatho Molefe

In Fitzrovia, Carousel is celebrating an impressive milestone: its 300^th residency. From 27^th June to 9^th July, Mmabatho Molefe, the talented chef behind Cape Town’s Emazulwini, will take over the restaurant’s open kitchen, bringing her contemporary take on traditional Zulu cooking to London.

Molefe, who has gained international recognition and secured a place on the World’s 50 Next list, is renowned for her innovative reinterpretation of Zulu cuisine. During her residency, Londoners will have the opportunity to taste unique dishes such as Umbila, a sweetcorn custard with corn salad, chickpea shoots and mealie bread; Imfino, a porcini-dusted cod served with pumpkin leaf, Swiss chard, sorghum and oyster mushrooms; and Umfulamfula, a refreshing pineapple beer sorbet complemented by bread and butter sauce, beer jellies and beer caramel.

For further information, to see the menu and to book a table visit here.

Sami Tamimi’s NAFAS supper club: A Palestinian feast

Chef, restaurateur and food writer Sami Tamimi is bringing a taste of Palestine to the Refettorio Felix community kitchen. Following the success of his inaugural dinner, Tamimi has announced two new dates for his NAFAS supper club series on 15^th and 29^th June, aiming to support FairTrade Palestinian farmers and producers.

In this series, Tamimi will be marrying the culinary heritage of Palestine with sustainable, low-carbon British produce. Expect an array of vibrant dishes served family-style, encouraging guests to share food and engage in conversation. The tables will overflow with freshly baked bread and za’atar, perfect for soaking up the rich flavours of muhammara, labneh and hummus. Other featured dishes include musaqa’a, a hearty aubergine, chickpea and tomato bake, and fish koftas paired with a spicy fennel salad and preserved lemon yoghurt, providing a taste of the Palestinian coastline.

For further information, to see the menu and to book a table visit here.

Food Desk