By Chef Wayne
By Chef Wayne
Where fire meets flavour in the heart of the Karoo. Expect bold flames, honest ingredients and unforgettable Karoo-style cooking crafted with smoke, soul and a touch of authentic Karoo hospitality. From open-fire feasts to refined private dining, every plate tells a story of the land, the fire and the people around the table.
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A self-taught chef with a passion for creating memorable dining experiences through good food, quality ingredients and warm hospitality.
Over the years, he has gained experience across a variety of cuisines, including fine dining within boutique hotels and luxury hospitality environments. His cooking style blends refined techniques with a relaxed, natural approach inspired by the landscapes and flavours of the Karoo.
While fire cooking is part of his approach, his work goes beyond the flame, focusing on seasonal ingredients, thoughtful menus and food that feels both elevated and deeply comforting.
Chef Wayne’s passion for food began in his childhood home kitchen, where cooking was woven into everyday life and inspired by the rich stories, flavours and traditions of growing up in South Africa. From an early age, he developed a deep appreciation for the way food brings people together, creating moments that feel both personal and memorable.
Guided by a respect for fresh, seasonal ingredients and a refined yet honest approach to cooking, his style blends elevated dining with the warmth and depth of fire-led cuisine.
Drawing inspiration from South Africa’s landscapes, produce and culinary heritage, Chef Wayne creates bespoke dining experiences that are sophisticated, immersive and rooted in genuine hospitality.
Inspired by the landscapes, flavours and hospitality of the Karoo, By Chef Wayne creates bespoke private dining experiences for villas, lodges and remote destinations.
Blending refined cooking with a love for open-fire preparation, Chef Wayne crafts seasonal menus rooted in quality ingredients, bold flavour and a strong sense of place.
From intimate dinners to immersive culinary experiences under open skies, every meal is designed to feel personal, memorable and connected to the environment around it.
By Chef Wayne is about slowing things down and letting the experience shape itself around the moment. It starts with the setting, a villa, a lodge or somewhere far off the beaten track and grows around the people gathered there.
Seasonal ingredients and familiar flavours come together in a way that feels relaxed, thoughtful and unforced. The food draws from both local roots and global influences but stays simple and authentic. It’s about good cooking, shared plates and moments that naturally unfold around the table. At its heart, it is food that fits the place, the people and the memory being made.
Each dish is thoughtfully prepared using seasonal ingredients and tailored to suit the experience, setting and guest preferences. Menus are flexible and can be adapted for dietary requirements, personal tastes, or specific event styles, ensuring every detail feels intentional and considered.
This dish features seared springbok fillet sashimi paired with California rolls filled with slow-braised springbok, cream cheese, and avo mousse, finished with balsamic caviar for a rich balance of freshness, texture and deep savoury flavour.
A lighter take on the classic breakfast wrap, made with thin egg rotis and filled with fresh toppings and hearty breakfast favourites.
A perfectly cooked ribeye served with a rich rooibos and red wine jus, bringing a deep, earthy sweetness to the dish. Paired with wild mushrooms, a bold pepper sauce and crispy pap chips for a true South African touch.
Grilled salmon served in a creamy chakalaka and harissa-style sauce, finished with fresh lemon and thyme. A vibrant dish that balances gentle heat, creaminess and bright citrus freshness.
A creamy peanut butter-infused milk tart with a smooth, spiced custard filling, served with chocolate ice cream, biscuit crumb and crisp brandy snap. A modern take on a South African classic with smooth, rich and crunchy textures.
Soft poached eggs with silky hollandaise served on golden French toast, topped with slow-cooked pulled leg of lamb. A rich, indulgent breakfast-style dish that balances sweetness, savoury depth and creamy texture.
Slow-braised Karoo lamb shank cooked until tender and rich in flavour, served in a deep, savoury sauce. Finished with seasonal accompaniments for balance and warmth, this is a comforting, hearty dish that highlights the depth and character of Karoo lamb.
Layers of slow-cooked eggplant baked with rich tomato sauce, herbs and cheese until soft and golden. A comforting vegetarian dish that is full of depth, warmth and simple flavour.
“THANK YOU so much for all your running around, cooking, organizing this past week with our guests at Doringbos - the food has been absolutely amazing!!”
“Just wanted to extend a quick hello and thank you for your immense efforts this weekend!! Absolutely amazing and thank you!!”
“Thanks for the amazing dinner today and yesterday as well. I’m extremely happy with the food. Om-nom-nom!”
Tell us your date, location, number of guests and the kind of experience you have in mind.
bychefwayne@outlook.com · WhatsApp 064 651 0376
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