Savoring Johannesburg: Mpho Phalane’s Culinary Journey Through Heritage and Flavor

Exploring South African Culture Through Culinary Storytelling

Mpho Phalane, the visionary culinary curator and founder of Food, I Love You, is emerging as one of South Africa’s most compelling cultural storytellers. Her latest creation, a limited-edition sauce that captures the flavors of her upbringing in Johannesburg, transcends mere food product; it’s a heartfelt expression of heritage and identity.

From Jozi to Flavor: The Essence of a City

With roots firmly planted in Johannesburg, Mpho’s work is an exploration of the intersection of food, culture, and design. From her experiential culinary studio situated at the historic Old Fort at Constitution Hill, she crafts food experiences that honor indigenous knowledge while reshaping South African culture through a contemporary lens.

A Culinary Innovator

Since the inception of Food, I Love You in 2013, Mpho has collaborated with global brands, cultural institutions, and local communities. Her mantra? Food serves as a medium for storytelling, preserving memories, creating a sense of belonging, and expressing identity.

A Momentous Partnership with Nando’s

Mpho’s recent partnership with Nando’s marks a significant milestone in her creative journey. This collaboration reflects her unique ability to articulate Johannesburg’s layered identity, captivating both local and international audiences.

Introducing Jozi Street Sauce

As part of this collaboration, Mpho co-created Jozi Street Sauce. This naartjie atchar peri-peri sauce embodies the vibrant energy and cultural richness of Johannesburg, designed to provide international delegates at the G20 Summit with a final taste of the city’s spirit.

A Poetic Reflection on Johannesburg

To accompany the launch, Mpho penned a short poem featured on the sauce’s packaging:

“Jozi, my Jozi. You’re bold. You’re loud. You’re a masala mix of culture and flavour. Stirred like our Gogo’s taught us, no recipe, just instinct.”

– Mpho Phalane

“When Nando’s asked me to imagine what Johannesburg would taste like, I went straight to memory, to the warmth, grit, brightness and unapologetic character of the city that raised me. Jozi is layered and full of heart, and I wanted to translate that into a flavour people could take with them long after they have left,” Mpho reflects.

Available Exclusively at Big 5 Duty Free Stores

The Jozi Street Sauce is available exclusively at Big 5 Duty Free Stores at O. R. Tambo International Airport. It provides travelers with a meaningful keepsake that encapsulates Johannesburg’s vibrancy and serves as a flavorful tribute to the city’s rich culinary tapestry.