Daisy and Bubbles are trying to figure out gluten-free life at home in Malaysia, and all around the world! Have a question? Drop us a line at daisynbubbles@gmail.com!
I am so sorry for this two-year late post! I was in South Africa in 2014, and never got around to posting on it. However, for what it’s worth, it’s been on my to-do list, and perhaps it still offers some useful tips to those of you planning to go.
In general, South Africa is an easy-to-live-in place for GFs. Most the food is naturally gluten-free, and people are general aware of what ingredients go into the foods they are preparing. The difficulty, for me at least, was finding meat-free options. South Africa is a big, meat-eating country! But thankfully, there are sea food options at most meat-focused places. And there are lots of new health food stores popping up!
This post will be more of a catalogue of general tips and “possibilities” for GF food options. The information may be outdated, so do check online before heading out to the specific spots. I hope you all get out there – it’s truly a wonderful country and a compassionate – and strong! – people.
JOHANNESBURG / PRETORIA
Sheraton, Pretoria: The traditional South African dish of pap (millet mush, sort of like millimeal) and veggies. Almost always gluten-free.Greek Restaurant, Nelson Mandela Square, Johannesburg: GF salads are aplenty in almost any restaurant! Check the dressing, and if in doubt, always sauce on the side!Greek Restaurant in Johannesburg: Fried Halloumi. Just amazing!
“NeighbourGoods Market” in Johannesburg: The market is a fantastic place for a mishmash of cooked and canned foods. A little tricky for GFs, but stick to simple food, like oysters!“NeighbourGoods Market” in Johannesburg: Fun to walk through, but as a GF person, avoid these large pot offerings. Plenty of opportunity for cross-contamination.
“NeighbourGoods Market” in Johannesburg: Organic biltong – a softer, chewier version of jerky. Available for a variety of meats, with equally varied flavouring! Biltong is usually GF.
Restaurant recommendations:
La Madeleine (Johannesburg)
La Pentola (Pretoria)
CAPE TOWN
“Birds” in Cape Town: The mushroom soup came with a slice of gluten-free bread! Without prompting!“Birds” at Cape Town: The soup was smooth and silky!“Birds” in Cape Town: The texture of their gluten-free bread.
“Keenwai” in downtown Cape Town: A lovely little restaurant with many GF options!
“Keenwai” in Cape Town: A beautiful Veggie Tower. Yummy too!
“Keenwai” in Cape Town: A snap shot of the menu“Keenwai” in Cape Town: A health outlet in the heart of Cape Town. Soup with quinoa. Gluten-free.
“Mama Africa” in Cape Town: Popular tourist spot on Long Street. Live (and lively) African music.“Mama Africa” in Cape Town: Veggie curry. In general, African veggie curry is another reliable option.
Indian Restaurant at the Hilton in Cape Town: Again, Indian food is a reliable option always!
DURBAN
“Circus” at Gateway Mall in Durban: Almost all the abundantly available Indian food in Durban is gluten-free. Just check for hing/asafoetida powder.“Circus” at Gateway Mall in Durban: Simple pan-fried fish and grilled veggies. Easy to come by. Gluten-free.“Ribs” at Gateway Mall in Durban: Typical South African food that is GLAZED! Watch out for this!
“Kauai” on Florida Road, Durban: Gorgeous salad!“Kauai” on Florida Road in Durban: This place actually has a variety of GF offerings. This is the Mediterranean Wrap!
“Havana Grill” at Suncoast, Durban. Chef-designed mixed rice dish.Lots of grilled goodies in South Africa, especially seafood! Almost always gluten-free. Check for glazes or marinades.“Jaipur Palace” in Durban: Palak paneer tastes a little different – the spinach is chunkier than we’re used to out in Malaysia, but still good. And most importantly, still gluten-free!“Havana Grill” at Suncoast, Durban: Steak! Almost always grilled without any seasoning. People tell me South African meat is super delicious!Random Chinese restaurant near Three Cities Hotel, Durban: Okay, so Chinese food is the trickiest (it always is). Stick to simple options, like maki, even though it is… umm… rather unoriginal.Three Cities Hotel, Durban: Pretty much my staple in South Africa. Mozzarella and mushrooms. My own rule of thumb: when in doubt, simplicity is key.
DRINKS
In addition to the chai, there’s also excellent rooibos tea to be had everywhere!
Was at Organica Lifestyle (yes, again!) the other day and came across this small business offering home-made GF – and best of all: raw + vegan – cakes. They look delicious! Check ’em out! (Admittedly, I haven’t yet!).
