One thing you must know about Durbanites is that they have quite the varied appetite. In fact, they often have a very different palate to that of the rest of the land. For them, pineapples and masala go hand-in-hand, and spicy prawns have never tasted as good as in Durbs.
While Durban’s cuisine includes some of South Africa’s fieriest curries, their Indian cuisine doesn’t consist of curries only. As a matter of fact, you’re bound to find a unique mix of South and North Indian dishes like breyanis and pilaus here, often blended with uniquely South African flavours.
Durban’s Indian cuisine originated with the South Indian indentured labourers’ arrival at the port of Natal. They were transported on 45-day steamship journeys between 1860 and 1911 and mainly came to work on the British-run sugar cane plantations, as well as in the railway, fishing and boating industries. Today, their cuisine, cooking techniques and unique foodie flavours have been widely adopted and incorporated into many South African dishes.
Apparently, there’s a secret to cooking the perfect curry and in Durban you’ll find it. In essence, the secret lies in the oil (good Durban curries will have a glossy oil slick at the top), fresh masala and how the onions and garlic are cooked.
Try Cane Cutters in Glenwood, where you can sample a variety of curries, snacks and breyanis. If you’re looking to have curry in an upper-class environment, The Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga also has some great curry options to try.
Bunny chow can be described as hollowed-out quarters of white bread loaves, filled with curry. It’s typical Durban street food and you have not been to this coastal city if you have not had bunny chow.
Try Hollywood Bets in Springfield for some of the best bunny chow in town. Another local foodie favourite is The Oriental Restaurant at The Workshop.
Since Durban is based on the coast, it’s only natural that it will have some of the best, freshest seafood to sample. Located on the Sardine Run route, this is also one of the best South African destinations to eat fresh Sardines between May and July. Find it at local fish markets or waterfront pubs and restaurants.
Durban is at the heart of the Zulu culture. Evidently, a taste of cultural cuisine is a must. Traditional Zulu dishes include mogudu (tripe), amadumbi (Zulu potatoes), walkie-talkies (boiled chicken feet) and pap (maize porridge).
Tip: The historic Victoria Street Market is Durban’s oldest market and consists of a Meat and Fish Market where you’ll be able to find some of Durban’s freshest seafood and meat.
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