Wholesome food, yummy milkshakes and plenty of space to run and play…
a visit to Food Fundi is a next-level after-school treat. Jennifer Campbell and her family experienced just what this farm-style café is all about…
Located at Sugar Rush Park, just a few minutes out of Ballito, Food Fundi is one of those spots that’s perfectly suited to families. There’s a big lawn for little ones to run, a playground just a stone’s throw away, and big shady trees where parents can sit and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. Run by Chef Jason Powell, the space has a relaxed atmosphere, and although it’s just a few kilometres from town, it’s a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle. On an afternoon after school, I bundled my family – husband Andrew, daughter Ada, and son Mitchell – into the car and took a trip to the restaurant for some mid-week quality time and good food.
The menu is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients, most of which are sourced locally. Jason takes much of his inspiration from his travels, having worked in places as diverse as Norway and Mozambique. We tried a brioche burger with a nacho-crumbed chicken breast, spicy jalapeno atchar, and a generous layer of mozzarella. The chicken was cooked to perfection – crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside – and the atchar was certainly a tasty touch.
We couldn’t resist sharing a wood-fired umami pizza. Loaded with mushroom, mixed-herb pesto, parmesan shavings, rocket, and – the star of the show – truffle oil. This combination didn’t disappoint, and even the little ones enjoyed a slice!
For the kids, we ordered a grilled cheese and bacon sandwich; and chicky pops – bite-size chicken nuggets. Both of these came with chips, which are always a crowd-pleaser. Our little ones devoured their food, and there are plenty of other options to choose from on the menu, including burgers, chicken strips and mini-pizzas. Ada absolutely loved her strawberry milkshake, while little Mitchell and I shared a refreshing pineapple, orange and ginger smoothie.
The portion sizes were generous, but Mitchell and Ada were able to squeeze in a locally-made strawberry ice lolly from the deli. There’s also a tempting dessert menu, that includes double chocolate brownies; rocky road squares with dark chocolate, marshmallows and crunchy biscuits; a selection of cakes; and indulgent waffles.
After lunch, we had a browse around the on-site deli, which stocks some of the Food Fundi favourites – sauces, onion marmalades and marinated artichokes – as well as baked goodies and other locally-sourced treats. And then, it was off to the playground where the kids had an absolute blast. By the time we headed home, we were feeling full, happy and tired in the best possible way.
Details: Food Fundi, Sugar Rush Park, Esenembe Road, Ballito; 087 460 0302; [email protected]; IG: @food.fundi
