Taking the Cape to the world

Cape Town - Cape Grace executive chef Malika van Reenen set sail this week for St Helena Island, in the south Atlantic Ocean, on board the RMS St Helena – one of the world’s last working Royal Mail Ships.

Van Reenen will be at sea for five days, and then spend eight days on the island. She’ll be sharing her culinary skills with students at the local hospitality school and preparing them for the growing number of international visitors.

Van Reenen has been at the helm of Signal Restaurant for five years, and made a name for herself by introducing Cape Malay twists to the menu.

During her visit to the island, she will cook for the governor and share her contemporary Cape style with the local residents, known as “the Saints”.

“I’m looking forward to sharing my experience with the students, but I also can’t wait to be inspired by the island’s cultural heritage,” she said.

She is also looking forward to creating dishes with some of the local ingredients. “This includes Tungi spirit, which is made from prickly pear,” she said. “And to taste the local coffee, which I hear is fantastic. Oh, and the peace! I am really looking forward to that, too. To think I won’t hear my cellphone ring for 18 days. What utter bliss!”

Van Reenen shares her love of travel.

How widely have you travelled?

I have seen most of Europe but I especially loved Spain, France and Switzerland. I have also spent time in the UK, UAE and the US.

Best holiday?

My time spent in the Highlands of Scotland.

What have you learnt from your travels?

Nowhere is as beautiful as Cape Town.

Ideal travelling companion?

Someone who is chilled out, loves food, shopping and never tires – that’s my best friend.

Greatest travel luxury?

I have been fortunate to stay in some of the greatest 5-star hotels around the world

Holiday reading?