of Simbithi’s Culinary Experience.
There is a rhythm to a great kitchen, an unspoken harmony that flows between chefs as they chop, stir, and plate. At Simbithi Country Club, this symphony of flavours and finesse is led by two culinary maestros: Executive Chefs Godfrey Kinyanjui and Lodewyk Lesch. Each with their own distinct approach, they form the backbone of a dining experience that is as heartfelt as it is unforgettable.
For Chef Godfrey Kinyanjui, cooking is deeply personal. It is not just about the food but about the people, the hands that craft the dishes and the guests who savour them. His Kenyan heritage is woven into his creations, with his signature Kuku Bizari Ya Pwani standing as a testament to his roots. Simbithi’s famed weekly curry buffet carries his touch, as does the soon-to-be-launched menu: a refined selection of lighter, healthier dishes designed to meet the evolving tastes of the Club’s patrons without sacrificing the beloved classics.
A mentor at heart, Chef Godfrey extends his passion beyond the kitchen, nurturing the next generation of chefs with patience and warmth. His recent appointment to the South African Culinary and Hospitality Educators’ Forum speaks to his dedication to passing down his wealth of knowledge. Yet, whether he is teaching, crafting delicate pastries, or perfecting a dish infused with his favourite ingredient – garlic – his mission remains the same: to create food that evokes comfort, joy, and connection.
Chef Lodewyk Lesch, affectionately known as Chef Louis, approaches food as an art form. To him, a recipe is a canvas, and he is the artist who brings it to life. Having curated menus for global icons like Oprah Winfrey, his culinary pedigree is nothing short of extraordinary. At Simbithi Country Club, his expertise shines brightest during the coveted wine and food pairing evenings, where he meticulously orchestrates five-course experiences that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Beyond the refinement of haute cuisine, Chef Louis is deeply committed to sustainability and authenticity in cooking. His philosophy is rooted in a ‘field to fork’ approach, championing heirloom vegetables, organic produce, and gut-healing fermented foods. This respect for ingredients extends to his interactive cooking classes, where he inspires Simbithi’s residents with his knowledge and enthusiasm, building a community that truly appreciates the beauty of well-prepared food. 
Together, these two chefs represent the heart and soul of Simbithi Country Club’s evolving culinary identity. With a renewed menu on the horizon – streamlined, thoughtful, and designed to enhance the dining experience – they continue to redefine what it means to eat well. One, a warm mentor with a deep love for the people he serves; the other, a passionate innovator who transforms meals into masterpieces. In their hands, the Club’s kitchen, the ultimate stage where flavour, tradition, and creativity join together in perfect harmony.
- Tel: 032 946 5403
- Web: simbithi.com
- Address: Club Cres, Shaka’s Rock, Ballito
Supplied by: Rainmaker Marketing | Photos: Chris Allan Photography
