What does this local chef do on holiday?

Posted on 1 December 2018

Kevin Joseph of The Oyster Box in Umhlanga tells Getaway about his adventures in food and travel.

As a child, I remember always having people over and my dad cooking for them. They looked so happy whenever the food was brought out. It’s something I always wanted to be able to do – make people happy, with food!

What is a holiday destination you often return to?

Mauritius is my go-to place for a last-minute holiday. We love the beaches, people and food.

Mauritius. Image by Melanie van Zyl

Which holiday destinations have captured your heart with their food?

My favourite place is Lyon in France – the food markets are something to behold. I go to London once a year to eat at the top restaurants and bring some ideas back home. At the moment, in London I’d rate Le Boudin Blanc (best French food), The English Grill at Rubens Palace (best British fare) and Phoenix pub in Victoria (best Sunday lunch). I’d always thought they only eat potatoes in Ireland, but I was impressed by their modern approach to food.

The Cliffs of Moher. Credit: Henrique Craveiro

The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. Image by Henrique Craveiro

Tell us about your most memorable trip?

My most memorable trip was to the US. I got to visit my brother who moved there 20 years ago. To top it all off, we were there on the Fourth of July, barbecuing on the banks of the Mississippi. The best meal I’ve ever had was flame-grilled oysters at Drago’s Seafood Restaurant in New Orleans. The food, culture and nightlife of the city was an eye-opener.

Oysters from Drago’s Seafood Restaurant. Image supplied

What’s the one place in South Africa everyone should visit?

Kruger National Park, to see, experience and appreciate the scenery and wildlife in our own backyard.

Left: Giraffe. Right: Hyena in Kruger National Park. Image credit: Louise-Topping

Tamboti Tented Camp, Kruger National Park. Image: Melanie van Zyl

Kevin’s famous curry features in a daily curry buffet (R450 per person) at the Oyster Box Hotel, Durban. You can call to make a booking on 031 514 5000.






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