For most people, opening a restaurant is a daunting prospect. Twin brothers Andile and Ayanda Ngidi have taken ambition to the next level, having recently launched three brand-new spaces in Salt Rock.
Many North Coast foodies will remember The Danté Experience in Umhlanga, a triple-story space that housed a restaurant, five bars and a rooftop. The venue was co-founded by Andile and Ayanda Ngidi and was the first of its kind in KZN. In 2022, the brothers sold the business and took some time to travel and recharge. Now, back home and feeling inspired, they have opened three new spots – Donna Modern Italian, Butcher & Wine, and St Yves Bar – all of which are located in Salt Rock.
Born and raised in Durban, the Ngidi brothers discovered a passion for hospitality soon after school when they worked as waitrons and bartenders while they were studying for their business degrees. During this time, they realised that it was the industry for them. “We just knew it was the space we wanted to throw ourselves into,” says Andile. Together they started an events company in their early 20s, where they learnt a lot about managing people, coordination and running a business, and after a short stint in the corporate world, found themselves drawn back into hospitality.
Andile and Ayanda are similar in many ways and have shared many experiences, but they each have attributes that contribute something different to the business. Ayanda is all about numbers and administration, while Andile is the people person in the duo. “We sometimes pull in different directions, but we’re on the same page when it comes to what we want to achieve,” says Andile. “The twin relationship is very unique. We always say to people that we are among the closest twins because we’ve done everything together for so long. It’s been my brother and me through thick and thin, always. We look out for each other, we support each other. It’s motivating to be on the same team.”
During their recent travels in the United States, the brothers were exposed to a whole new world of hospitality and they took some inspiration from the spaces they experienced there. “When we came home, we had millions of dollars of ideas,” says Andile. “From there, we tried to mould the perfect model.” After looking at a few sites in Umhlanga, the brothers decided to venture further north, eventually finding a spot in Salt Rock last year. They knew they wanted to open multiple spaces and decided to launch three concepts next to each other to create a hub where there’s something for everyone. “It’s hard work, but we love people,” says Andile. “It’s so rewarding when people enjoy a space that we’ve created.”
The brothers have had the concept of Donna Modern Italian in their minds for a while – a space that’s well-suited to families and celebrates a rich culinary heritage while also incorporating modern techniques and contemporary design. Right next door, Butcher & Wine is a classic steak house that also offers seafood and sushi, while St Yves Bar (pronounced Saint Eves) is a fun spot for after-work drinks or weekend celebrations with friends.
Each of the interiors has been beautifully done by Kirsten Margaret Lotze, a designer that Andile and Ayanda have known for many years. “We wanted the spaces to include elements that are a bit different,” explains Andile. Some of the stand-out details include a beautiful mural of ‘Donna’, as well as custom wall papers and light installations that really make a statement.
Having recently moved to Ballito, Andile admits they still have a lot to learn about the area but they’re enjoying life on the North Coast so far. “We’re excited to really be part of the growth of the area,” says Andile. “It feels like the next chapter of our lives is just meant to be here.”
Details: New Salt Rock Centre; IG: @donnamodernitalian; @butcherandwine; @saintyvesbar
