Author: Azhar Obaray

In South Africa, the braai is more than a meal – it’s a tradition that runs through our culture, our kitchens, and our hospitality spaces. For chefs, caterers, and restaurateurs, it’s also one of the most authentic ways to connect with guests. Few experiences capture the spirit of togetherness quite like the smell of wood smoke, the glow of hot coals, and the sizzle of steak and boerewors on the fire.

At Core Catering Supplies, we’ve seen how a well-planned braai service can transform an event, whether it’s a hotel terrace gathering or a family celebration. It’s not just about serving food – it’s about creating an atmosphere where people linger, share, and savour.

Why Steak and Boerewors?

These two classics remain the backbone of any memorable braai. A juicy cut of steak paired with traditional boerewors delivers the kind of hearty, comforting flavour South Africans know and love. Add pap and tomato smoor to the table, and you’ve got the essence of home on a plate – something guests instinctively connect with.

What You’ll Need

For the Steak Marinade

• 4 rump or sirloin steaks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1 tsp paprika
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Boerewors

• 500 g traditional boerewors (one coil)

On the Side

• Pap (maize porridge)
• Tomato-and-onion smoor
• Fresh green salad or garlic bread

Method

Marinate the Steaks
Combine all marinade ingredients, coat the steaks, and let them rest for at least a few hours – ideally overnight. This step ensures the flavours develop fully while tenderising the meat.

Build the Fire
For authentic flavour, opt for wood such as rooikrans or kameeldoring. Let the flames burn down until you have glowing coals – this is the secret to consistent heat and that distinct braai taste.

Grill the Steak
Place steaks over medium-hot coals. Cook 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for thickness or preference. Rest the meat before slicing to lock in juices.

Cook the Boerewors
Lay the coil on the grid over medium heat. Turn gently every few minutes and avoid piercing the casing. Slow cooking for 15–20 minutes delivers a juicy, evenly cooked wors.

Dish Up
Serve the steak and boerewors alongside pap and smoor, with a green salad or garlic bread to round out the table. Pair with a cold beer or a robust red wine for a perfect finish.

Expert Braai Tips

• Avoid overcrowding the grid – good airflow and space improve the cook.
• If using charcoal, wait until it’s white-hot before adding meat.
• Resist flipping too often – let the grill marks and flavour develop naturally.

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When most people think of Oktoberfest, they picture overflowing beer steins, lively brass bands, and packed Bavarian beer tents. But for hospitality professionals, Oktoberfest is a masterclass in event logistics, cultural authenticity, and guest management. While Munich is the festival’s spiritual home, Oktoberfest-style events are increasingly popular in South Africa – from Cape Town to Johannesburg, drawing both locals and tourists looking for a taste of Bavarian tradition.

Here’s what hospitality experts can learn from the world’s largest folk festival, and how we can create successful Oktoberfest-inspired events in South Africa.

Why Oktoberfest Matters

Global Appeal: Oktoberfest attracts over six million visitors annually in Munich – proof of its pulling power. South African venues can leverage the same festive spirit, especially given the country’s beer culture and growing craft beer scene.

Cultural Tourism: When done authentically, events that celebrate global traditions attract diverse audiences. For South Africa, where tourism is a vital industry, Oktoberfest is an opportunity to draw both domestic and international guests.

Guest Experiences

Authenticity: Lederhosen, Dirndls, traditional Bavarian cuisine – even when adapted locally, authenticity matters. Pretzels, roast chicken, and pork knuckles paired with South African craft beers create a unique fusion.

Atmosphere: Bavarian décor, communal tables, music, and lively staff interaction set the tone. Hospitality staff must be trained to serve quickly, manage volume, and maintain the cheerful, high-energy feel.

Safety & Comfort: Crowd flow, sanitation, waste management, and weather-appropriate setups are crucial for outdoor events in South Africa.

Logistics & Operations: Munich Lessons, SA Context

Seating & Reservations: Munich balances reserved tables and walk-ins. For South Africa, pre-sold tickets and VIP sections can be combined with walk-in areas to maximize accessibility and profitability.

Payment Systems: Oktoberfest leans heavily on cash; in SA, reliable card and mobile payment systems are a must. Having both options avoids bottlenecks.

High-Volume Service: Beer steins, heavy-duty glassware, and durable crockery are essential. South African events can’t risk running short on supplies – procurement must anticipate high volume.

What Core Catering Supplies Brings to the Table

Durable, authentic glassware and tableware – beer steins, pint glasses, heavy plates, and cutlery built for high-volume use.

Food service equipment – from ovens and grills for traditional roasts to catering-grade refrigeration for beer and food storage.

Décor and event styling essentials – helping venues replicate Bavarian tent aesthetics with communal seating, serving equipment, and themed table setups.

Safety and compliance supplies – sanitation stations, waste management solutions, and fire-safety equipment.

Sustainable solutions – compostable disposables, eco-friendly serving ware, and waste-sorting options for greener festivals.

Opportunities for the SA Hospitality Industry

Seasonal Attraction: Hosting Oktoberfest in September/October fills a key slot in the SA events calendar before the summer season peaks.

Corporate Packages: Companies increasingly book Oktoberfest-style events for staff functions. Corporate hospitality can be a lucrative market for venues and suppliers.

Tourism Drawcard: Oktoberfest resonates with international tourists – a Bavarian celebration with a South African twist can become a signature annual attraction.

For South Africa’s hospitality industry, Oktoberfest is more than a fun, themed event. It is a case study in cultural celebration, logistics mastery, and guest experience.

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Known worldwide for its outstanding safari experiences, Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge shows how true hospitality leaves a lasting impact. With tools, equipment, and support from Core Catering Supplies, the Sabi Sabi team delivers service that sets them apart in a highly competitive industry.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge is more than a destination – it’s a retreat where luxury meets nature. In the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve, the lodge invites guests to connect with the African wilderness while enjoying every comfort. Its design blends contemporary elegance with authentic African style, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and warm. From the spacious suites to the communal areas overlooking the bushveld, every detail immerses guests in the magic of safari living.

The lodge also delights guests with world-class dining. With equipment and catering solutions from Core Catering Supplies, the culinary team creates meals that celebrate South Africa’s rich flavors. Guests savor breakfasts after exhilarating game drives, elegant dinners beneath the stars, and traditional feasts around the iconic boma fire. Each experience reflects the lodge’s passion for quality, creativity, and unforgettable moments.

What sets Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge apart is its power to create lasting memories. Guests encounter the Big Five, share stories around a glowing fire, or relax in an atmosphere untouched by time. Families, couples, and friends leave with experiences that capture Sabi Sabi’s unique blend of adventure and comfort.

Food, hospitality, and shared experiences bring people together. Few things capture this spirit more than South African rugby culture. Rugby in South Africa is more than just a game; it’s a heartbeat that unites people across cultures, languages, and communities. Every try scored and every anthem sung is a reminder of what’s possible when a nation rallies together. 

When the Springboks play, South Africa transforms. Restaurants fill with fans in green and gold, pubs buzz with anticipation, and homes become gathering places for families and friends. The excitement spills into the streets, into venues, and into every corner of the country. For the hospitality industry, this is more than just a sporting event; it’s an opportunity. Game-day specials, themed menus, and celebratory events all drive people to engage with restaurants, hotels, caterers, and suppliers, creating moments that live far beyond the final whistle. 

For businesses, it’s not just about sales; it’s about connection. When strangers high-five after a try, or when families share a meal during a match, hospitality is the stage where those memories are made. The industry thrives because of the unity and spirit sparked by occasions like these. It reminds us that hospitality is not just about service, but about creating experiences that matter. 

At Core Catering Supplies, we are proud to be part of an industry that amplifies these shared moments of pride and joy. Just as the Springboks bring the nation together, hospitality brings people closer through food, through service, and unforgettable experiences. 

And as the country continues to rally behind the Springboks, one can’t help but acknowledge that sport, as a whole, has the ability to unite a nation.

At Core Catering, we believe in showing up for the hospitality industry. That’s why supporting events like the FEDHASA Golf Day is so important to us. These gatherings are more than just fun days out. They strengthen the fabric of our industry. They build relationships, open doors for collaboration, and remind us that hospitality is ultimately about people.

A Warm Welcome at the 11th Hole

Players arriving at the Core-sponsored 11th hole were greeted with warmth and energy. There was plenty of conversation – and plenty of treats.

The light, crisp Pinsa bases stole the show. Many players asked where they could find them. Wilderer’s handcrafted cocktails kept the mood lively, with favourites like the Apple Pie Moonshine mixed with ginger ale and lemon, as well as a refreshing Limoncello shot. For those who preferred something simple, soft drinks and icy water were ready to go. It was a true celebration of food, flavour, and hospitality in action.

Building Camaraderie on the Course

The magic of a golf day is about more than competition. It’s about camaraderie.

From teamwork in a four-ball, to chats at the wet holes, to laughter at the prize-giving dinner – everyone came together on equal ground. These moments reminded us that beyond the businesses we represent, we are people first. Friendships were built. Trust was fostered. And bonds within the hospitality network grew stronger.

What Guests Took Away

No golf day is complete without a takeaway. For some, it was new business connections. For others, fresh ideas. And yes – for a few, it may have been a sunburn or two!

What truly stood out was the sense of unity and the support shown for FEDHASA. This organisation plays a vital role in the industry, and events like this highlight just how important their work is.

Hospitality is never just about business. It’s about people, relationships, and goodwill.

More Than Just Golf

At its core, the FEDHASA Golf Day wasn’t just about golf. It was about people: colleagues, customers, and friends sharing meaningful time. Core Catering Supplies is proud to stand alongside FEDHASA, supporting both the industry and the people who make it what it is.

Join Us Next Time

Would you join us on the green next year? We hope to see even more supporters at the next golf day. Because at the end of the day, hospitality is about connection – and days like these remind us why that matters.

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If you’ve ever wandered through the streets of Cape Town or Joburg on the first Thursday of the month, you’ll know the buzz is different. Streets are alive with people, music, art, food, and a real sense of community. That’s First Thursdays – a monthly celebration of art, culture, and nightlife that’s become a fixture in South Africa’s creative calendar. And at the heart of it all, Core Catering Supplies supports the hospitality industry behind the scenes, making sure restaurants, bars, and venues are equipped to serve, impress, and create memorable experiences on nights like these. From our quality glasses, perfect for serving signature cocktails, to our professional bar tools, shakers, and speed pourers that keep bartenders in flow, we help elevate the experience for guests across the country.

A Global Idea

The roots of First Thursdays go back to East London, where the Whitechapel Gallery and Time Out first introduced late-night gallery openings on the first Thursday of every month. The idea caught on, and soon other cities in Europe followed. In fact, part of the inspiration for Cape Town’s event came directly from experiencing a similar scene in Zurich – a city that knows how to blend art, culture, and street life into something unforgettable.

The South African Story

In November 2012, Gareth Pearson and Michael Tymbios brought the concept to Cape Town. It began with just six galleries but quickly grew into one of the city’s biggest cultural events. By 2015, Johannesburg had joined the movement, and most recently, Stellenbosch launched its own First Thursdays in May 2025.

What makes it so special? It’s free, open to everyone, and transforms city spaces into playgrounds of discovery. Galleries and shops usually open from 5pm to 8pm, but the night doesn’t stop there. Restaurants, bars, and music venues keep the energy going well into the evening.

More Than Just a Night Out

First Thursdays isn’t only about art – it’s about people. It’s a chance to explore your city in a new way, to meet others, and to support local creativity and hospitality. For the restaurant and bar scene especially, it’s a powerful boost. Thousands of people pour into the city each month, looking for places to eat, drink, and connect.

This is where Core Catering Supplies proudly plays a role. By equipping restaurants, bars, and hotels with the tools they need, we’re supporting the venues that keep First Thursdays thriving. Whether it’s a mixologist shaking things up with our stainless-steel cocktail shakers, a bartender serving a G&T in our Glitch Glassware, or a busy venue relying on speed pourers and bar caddies to keep service seamless – Core Catering is there, helping create those memorable nights out.

Ready for Thirsty Thursdays?

Whether you’re in Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Stellenbosch, First Thursdays is your invitation to rediscover your city. Plan your route, step into a gallery you’ve never seen before, grab a meal somewhere new, and let the night take you where it will.The only question is: are you ready for Thirsty Thursdays?

Situated in the heart of Table View, News Cafe is a go to, if you are looking to have a cozy date night, hearty breakfast, bustling lunch or simply a cocktail in the Glitch, Flashback or SPKSY glass. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted with smiles by friendly staff, setting the tone for an experience that is both warm and welcoming. Guests can enjoy breathtaking Table Mountain views and sea views both upstairs and downstairs, while those seated outside can relax to the scent of the ocean in the air, creating a dining atmosphere that is both vibrant and refreshing.

The Experience

News Cafe is a high-street, all-day cafe, cocktail bar and entertainment venue that challenges the average perception of service by offering a unique, relaxed and entertaining dining experience. Created by a dedicated and professional team committed to giving guests more than they expect. News Cafe has status – it’s aspirational, trendy and it’s about the vibe. Serving curated cocktails, world-class food, and entertainment experiences since 1995.

The Vibe

Striking store designs, award-winning mixology, and culturally progressive music encompass the renowned News Cafe vibe. Our cocktails are prepared with flair, and our food offering is world-class. News Cafe’s dynamic team is just as vibrant as the iconic atmosphere that surrounds the cafe. Passion, dedication, and consistency are the motivations behind this long-standing position as one of the leading entertainment venues in South Africa.

History

Established in 1995 under the Fournews umbrella, News Cafe first opened its doors in Hatfield and has since evolved into a multinational brand. Three decades later, they continue to lead the way in food, cocktails, and social culture. The cafe is a proudly South African concept with a footprint that extends across multiple African countries, redefining the industry with innovation and style.

The Concept

News Cafe is more than just a venue – it’s an experience. Seamlessly blending the essence of a coffee and cocktail bar, a full-service restaurant, and a dynamic entertainment hub, helping to raise the standard for hospitality in South Africa. With bold, eye-catching store designs, award-winning mixology, and a pulse for superior entertainment, News Cafe embodies energy and sophistication. Expertly crafted cocktails and world-class food, paired perfectly with the vibrant atmosphere and the passionate team, makes the experience one to remember.

A Formula For Success

Passion. Dedication. Consistency. These are the driving forces behind News Cafe’s position as one of South Africa’s premier entertainment destinations. Forward-thinking marketing approaches and strategic planning and partnerships keep all the spaces buzzing with energy, ensuring sustained growth and an ever-evolving experience for guests.

Experience It for Yourself

If you’re in Table View, visit News Cafe for a true taste of the vibe. With almost 30 years of history, it remains one of South Africa’s most trusted entertainment destinations. It’s not just dining – it’s living the vibe.

National Wine Day is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with the perfect glass in hand. But not all glassware is created with equal durability, balance, and elegance, which matters just as much as the wine inside.

Onis: Dutch Craftsmanship with Lasting Durability

With its roots in the Netherlands, Onis has become synonymous with strength, clarity, and modern hospitality standards. Every glass is designed with a reinforced rim and foot, giving it exceptional resilience where it matters most. This durability means Onis glassware can withstand more than 800 commercial dishwasher cycles, performing up to eight times longer than standard glass. For busy restaurants, hotels, and bars, that reliability translates to fewer replacements, reduced waste, and consistent presentation.

Onis also takes pride in combining durability with style. Each piece is crafted for ergonomic comfort, ensuring it feels balanced and natural in the hand, while maintaining crystal-clear brilliance even after repeated washes. The rim and foot guarantee provides added protection against the chips and cracks that often shorten the lifespan of ordinary glassware.

Whether used in high-volume service or refined dining settings, Onis glassware elevates the drinking experience while delivering the kind of longevity that hospitality professionals can count on. With Onis, operators invest in glassware that is as tough as it is elegant, ensuring every pour looks and feels premium from the first service to the last.

Why It Matters

Durable, reliable glassware isn’t just about longevity it’s about the drinking experience. Every Onis glass balances beauty, strength, and comfort, ensuring your wine looks and tastes its best. With Core Catering as South Africa’s trusted distributor, accessing these top-tier brands has never been easier.

At Core Catering Supplies, we believe great hospitality shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. That’s why we proudly serve as the sole distributor in South Africa of Steelite, a global leader in sustainable tableware. Together, we provide customers with high-quality, durable products while supporting a shared commitment to environmental responsibility. Choosing Steelite through Core means investing in both exceptional hospitality and a greener future.

Steelite’s Environmental Leadership

For Steelite, caring for the environment is nothing new. Since 1996, the company has been certified to the ISO 14001 Environmental Management Standard, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to minimising its impact on the planet. Over the years, it has introduced pioneering initiatives that have set new standards within the ceramics industry. In 2007, Steelite became one of the first manufacturers in the UK to install a Lamella machine, an innovative system that recycles more than 350 tonnes of clay waste every year. That is 350 tonnes of material that no longer needs to be quarried, transported, or sent to landfill, saving energy, cutting emissions, and preserving natural landscapes.

Steelite has continued to build on these efforts with further innovations. The company introduced a centrifuge system that spins waste material out of water, reclaiming valuable glaze while also recycling around 20 cubic metres of water every day. This reduces waste, saves resources, and improves the quality of water leaving the site, ensuring the business has a positive effect on the local environment as well as the wider world.

Today, Steelite recycles more than 99 percent of all its operational waste, a remarkable achievement for such a resource-intensive industry. Its environmental leadership has been recognised with multiple Green Apple Awards as well as Gold Membership of The Green Organisation, a global body that rewards and promotes environmental best practice. Beyond its own operations, Steelite has supported initiatives such as tree planting programmes in areas most affected by climate change and funding new UK woodland with the Woodland Trust, capturing hundreds of tonnes of carbon in the process.

Innovation for Positive Impact

What is most inspiring about Steelite is that its sustainability journey is not just about reducing harm. It is about finding creative ways to make a positive difference. Every year, the company now produces around 750,000 cups and saucers using clay recycled through its Lamella system. This is a powerful example of how innovation can transform waste into something new, useful, and beautiful while supporting the hospitality sector with products that last.

The Lamella System:

• Recycles 350 tonnes of clay every year – enough to make 15 000 cups and sauces
• Won the GREEN APPLE AWARD for it’s positive impact on the environment
• Filters and reuses water with much less chemical use
• Reduces the need for transporting new clay
• Helps Steelite recover over 90% of all it’s manufacturing waste

What You Can Do

By supporting responsible manufacturers and making conscious choices, we can all help reduce our industry’s environmental impact and contribute to a greener, more resilient future. At Core Catering, we fully embrace this philosophy, encouraging everyone in the hospitality sector to take meaningful action for the planet.

Core Supplying to 12 Apostles

We are proud to feature The 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa, a phenomenal customer of ours, as a shining example of what happens when world-class service meets a deep commitment to quality and community.

Stunning Location and Cuisine

At the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, framed by the majestic Table Mountain National Park, lies the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa, a destination that blends breathtaking scenery with equally breathtaking cuisine. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Cristo Pretorius, this five-star haven has become a magnet for food lovers from across the globe.

Chef Pretorius

Chef Pretorius’s philosophy is simple yet profound: work with local farms and producers to source the freshest, most flavorful ingredients while supporting the community and reducing environmental impact. Whether it’s hearty South African classics or delicate seafood creations, every dish on the menu reflects a dedication to sustainability, seasonality, and exquisite taste. From a crisp garden salad bursting with local greens to a plate of freshly caught fish, guests can taste the story of the Cape in every bite.

Family Friendly

But the 12 Apostles offer more than just world-class dining. It’s a place where hospitality is as carefully crafted as the food. Step through the doors, and you’re greeted with warm smiles. Your luggage is whisked away while you check in, perhaps with a glass of bubbly in hand or a refreshing fresh juice. Families are treated like royalty: kids can enjoy sweets at the Azure Restaurant, or settle into the private cinema with popcorn, sweets, and even a milkshake while watching their favorite films.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Inclusivity is woven into the fabric of the hotel’s service. Guests using wheelchairs are thoughtfully accommodated, with the team able to make special arrangements—even last-minute adjustments—to ensure comfort and accessibility throughout the stay. Simply let them know your needs when booking, and they will go above and beyond to make it happen.

Pet Friendly

The property is also pet-friendly, ensuring that even four-legged family members can enjoy the coastal luxury. Guests simply need to mention it when booking as pet-friendly rooms are limited. Pets are welcome to join their owners for a sundowner at the Leopard Bar, provided they are supervised. A dog-sitter service is also available for added convenience.

Exploring the Surroundings

For guests eager to explore, the hotel’s drivers are ready to whisk you away to the vibrant V&A Waterfront or the golden sands of Camps Bay.

An Unforgettable Experience

Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or simply to indulge in Chef Pretorius’s inspired menu, the 12 Apostles is more than a hotel—it’s an experience. With its combination of culinary mastery, thoughtful amenities, and heartfelt service, it’s no wonder the property has become a true culinary destination for travelers and food enthusiasts worldwide.