Running through the streets of Gugulethu, Cape Town, Zinzi (Mhlawuli) Chamanifard never imagined a life where she would one day live in the United States, let alone own a restaurant. The Hidden Cuisine has become a hit in Moab, Utah and Zinzi proudly shared the journey with Saffa Mag.
Her culinary adventure began when she landed a position as a server at the distinguished Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town and Lady Luck blessed her further when Zinzi received an internship at their in-house culinary training. She could learn from the best in the industry. While working as a chef at the hotel Zinzi’s dream came true when she was offered an opportunity to obtain her qualification at the South African Chef’s Academy. “Cooking has always been a passion for me and with the support of my mother I was able to attend the academy. Not only did I obtain the cooking qualification, but I specialised in pastries”, Zinzi says.
In 2011 Zinzi followed her instincts and moved to Moab where she started working in local restaurants.
Five years later, Zinzi took the bold step to turn her garage into a catering kitchen and put her skills to good use at private events, and sell her baked goodies at the local farmer’s market. “In 2018 I stumbled upon an opportunity when a restaurant became available and with my husband, Amir’s support I opened up the Hidden Cuisine Restaurant.”
The introduction of South African cuisines in 2019 set her apart from other restaurants and it was embraced by her patrons. “We were looking forward to 2020 as things were looking so promising! Covid hit and we suffered a major setback, including losing all our employees,” Zinzi explains.
During this time Zinzi started taking pottery classes at a studio in town and soon she was hooked. “My work improved every time I made something and nowadays I sell my pottery at the restaurant. It’s awesome to serve some of our South African dished in the bowls I’ve made!”
But you can’t keep a girl from Gugulethu down and in 2021 Zinzi reintroduced South African dinner nights. Local visitors and tourists alike loved it. The SA favourites like Amarula Crème Brule, Kaapse bacon and chicken carbonara and the bobotie are among the favourites on the menu.
“I love seeing my fellow South Africans when they come to dine and are able to eat their favourite dishes. Life is good here in Moab.”
