A popular Langa eatery - Jordan Ways of Cooking - will open its second branch in Woodstock on Thursday.
Head chef and owner Ntlalo Jordan said the expansion was borne out of hard work and dedication.
The 36-year-old, Johannesburg-born chef said he has a passion for fine cuisine. Having worked as a sous chef at hotels in Dubai, Liberia and Sudan, Jordan decided to open his own restaurant in 2018 and bring his culinary skills to one of South Africa’s oldest township.
Fast forward to three years later and Jordan’s new venue will boast an open plan restaurant, two bar areas, state of the art kitchen, a VIP lounge and entertainment deck for live music.
Jordan said despite the tough journey he continued to work hard because he wanted to see his business blossoming and catering for different cultures in diversity.
"The industry is hard but when you find your stride, you'll find fertile ground. My goal is to establish Jordan Ways of Cooking as our cultural hub that caters for everyone from different walks of life. My staff is friendly and professional " Jordan said.
“I believe that food breaks every cultural barrier and it’s the best way to communicate because everyone loves good food. My restaurants (Langa and Woodstock location) open doors for everyone, from tourists to locals - we break bread and enjoy the vibe that comes from my establishment.”
In July, Premier Alan Winde visited the establishment to commend its owners on their innovative thinking in finding ways to operate while the country was under level four restrictions at the height of the third wave of Covid-19 infections.
The Langa site, also runs a weekly soup kitchen to serve poor people every Thursday.
Jordan said they started the soup kitchen in 2019 and that while it might not be much - it was their way of ensuring people got a meal for the day.
“It is difficult to live and work in my community and see how the unequal society continues to build a gap,” he said.
“We are grateful to be expanding with Jordan Ways of Cooking Woodstock. We're introducing a new venue, new vibe and menu,” Jordan said.
The new restaurant will employ 22 people, of which the majority are women.
“These roles will vary from chefs, waiters and waitresses, bartenders and Dj’s,” concluded Jordan.
The manager at the restaurant, Asanda Nyandeni, 30, said the experience of serving in the soup kitchen taught her to not take for granted an opportunity to serve other people.
“I got an opportunity to serve in the soup kitchen and I learnt that you must not take for granted an opportunity in life because people are hungry,” she said.