Dinner Club Plettenberg Bay - Chef of the Month - Danny Garcia
‘Dinner Club Plettenberg Bay’ is a vibrant culinary showcase where South Africa’s rising chefs dazzle with their creativity and skill – not only for applause but to secure a seat in the prestigious Top Chef Garden Route Gala event held every year.
About
Danys Scallop Habanero de Tigre
This month’s dinner club top chef accolade goes to Danny Garcia, the executive chef at the pretigious Zinzi restaurant Plettenberg Bay. Garcia wowed delighted guests with his seafood masterpiece, which featured a harmonious blend of flavors inspired by his Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage. His standout dish included scallop and habanero leche de tigre, smoked mussels with plantains and cabbage, and spiny lobster with salsa matcha and squash. This innovative creation not only showcased his exceptional culinary skills but also his ability to pivot and adapt under pressure, earning him high praise from the judges.
SCALLOP HABENERO LECHE DE TIGRE
The scallop and habanero leche de tigre was a flavor explosion! The heat from the habanero was perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the scallops. The smoked mussels added a delightful smokiness, while the plantains and cabbage provided a nice textural contrast. Truly a masterpiece!
ZINZI RESTAURANT
Nestled within the tranquil embrace of Hunter’s Estate just outside Plettenberg Bay, Zinzi Restaurant is more than a dining destination—it’s a sensory journey into the heart of African-inspired elegance and global culinary artistry. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere enchants: earthy textures, handcrafted décor, and oversized custom furniture invite guests into a space where comfort and creativity converge. Intricate carvings, tribal textiles, and mud chandeliers lend a warm, eclectic charm that feels both luxurious and grounded in nature
CATALINA SOUNDS
Pairing this dish with the Catalina Sounds was an exceptional choice. The Champagne’s effervescence acidity cut through the richness of the scallops and the smokiness of the mussels. The bubbles added a refreshing contrast to the creamy plantains and crunchy cabbage, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Testimonials
What People are Saying
“A Great Find”
‘The restaurant’s ambiance was electric, warm lighting, earthy textures and the gentle hum of conversation set the tone for an extraordinary evening.“
Anastacia
“Fabulous food & flawless service”
“This extraordinary dining experience at Zinzi was beyond words. Each course as a masterpiece: bold flavours, artful presentation and a seamless fusion of global inspiration with local ingredients. The Chef didn’t just cook, he told stories through food..“
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Guy
“Another successful experience”
“The warm and welcoming atmosphere at Zinzi is complemented by the excellent service. The staff’s genuine hospitality adds to the overall dining experience, making it a place we love to return to“
Roger
“Speechless”
“This winning recipe is a celebration of culinary creativity and skill. Each component is thoughtfully crafted and expertly executed, resulting in a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. This recipe truly exemplifies the best of modern gastronomy.
Catherine
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