What is typical weather for the Eastern Cape, the summer rains have dragged on for a couple of days now. I am reminded of home and it being the beginning of December and the festive season, even more so, I am reminiscing of family gatherings around the table; comfort food being served as my mother (older cousins, aunts and family friends) would dish up all the favourites that only take me back to being a child again. Sinning away as I allow the inner glutton in me to fill my belly to the point that the only relief is to undo the top button of what ever pants I have on.
Now as an adult, I am far from those days, or so I thought. After having a meal at Kitchen Vibes, I realised that since moving to its new venue in Morningside in the last quarter of 2018, the restaurant has been on its own journey. Constantly seeking to improve its niche and find itself in a market saturated with many viable options by engaging and talking with its customers, it brings me back to a sense of authenticity, unapologetically.
A setting that screams fine dining it does not compromise on the African dining experience with its flavours from South and West Africa. 3 bites into the meal I had to abandon the cutlery and devour the meal with my hands as I was transported back to my childhood as I laughed and ate with friends.
Only now as an adult I am aware and respectful of how this is an experience to enjoy. Topping it off with a selection of drinks I could not have before, the meal was only enhanced by washing it down with a fine whiskey (I just realised I am that uncle now and I never should have judged my uncles).
There is still a great sense of satisfying relief brought about by unbuttoning the top button of my pants as well as the bottom few buttons of my shirt. Kitchen Vibes is exactly that, a modern culmination of culinary and dining experience that will transport you back to a time of your youth, you know the vibes.
