When two of the North Coast’s most talented private chefs join forces, magic happens. We caught up with Caetlin Potgieter and Themba Mngoma to hear more about the fine dining experience they recently hosted at The Table in Salt Rock – and what’s next on the menu.
She’s a seasoned yacht chef with a love of rich, homestyle flavours. He’s a self-taught culinary maverick whose career began at the scullery sink. Together, chefs Caetlin Potgieter and Themba Mngoma are creating unforgettable dining experiences that bring people together around the table.
What started as mutual admiration on social media has evolved into a powerful partnership – united by a shared passion for good food, meaningful connection and growing a supportive chef community on the North Coast.
How did you first meet, and what inspired the collaboration?
Caetlin: I’d been following Themba on social media for a while. When you leave the big kitchen world, you really miss the camaraderie. We connected online and finally bumped into each other while doing last-minute shopping one day. I reached out and we met for coffee to chat about building a chef community. I mentioned the idea of a collaboration and it just took off from there.
Themba: I was also watching Caetlin’s journey online. I didn’t want to seem creepy, so I waited for her to contact and the idea of collaborating really excited me. This industry is tough, and chefs need a support network. We want to build a community, one event at a time.
How would you describe your individual cooking styles?
Caetlin: My food is rooted in homestyle cooking – rich, warm and inviting – with a fine dining twist. I don’t do tiny portions. I want guests to feel full, happy and cared for.
Themba: Same here! No one should leave a dinner and stop at the garage for a pie. We care deeply about creating memorable experiences and meaningful connections – that’s what keeps people coming back.
What do you hope guests take away from your events?
Caetlin: Our events are set up with long tables and a family-style feel. It encourages guests to talk, connect and maybe even collaborate. It’s more than just food and wine, it’s about creating moments that linger.
Themba: Exactly. In a world where everyone is glued to their phones, we want people to slow down, have real conversations, try new wines and maybe meet someone who inspires their next project.
What have you learned from each other?
Caetlin: Themba has this calm, grounded energy that really helped balance me when I was feeling anxious. Our collaboration reminded me that there’s no need for competition. There’s real strength in support and community.
Themba: My wife always says women run the world and she’s right! Caetlin was a pleasure to work with. I am really looking forward to our next event.
Meet the chefs
Caetlin Potgieter
Founder of Private Chef Ballito, Caetlin is known for her warm, elevated dishes inspired by her global travels and fine dining background. From luxury yachts to intimate North Coast gatherings, her food celebrates connection and comfort.
Themba Mngoma
With a culinary journey that began in the scullery, Themba has worked his way through top kitchens from London to the Serengeti. Now a private chef, he’s passionate about soulful cuisine and building a supportive chef community.
Details: @privatechefballito; @privatechefthemba
