13 years ago on a Saturday afternoon a young couple walked into the restaurant and after a few minutes requested to see the chef, not knowing what the reason for the request was, I walk out to the table. The couple were wanting a vegetarian meal and weren’t too keen on the options on the menu at the time… l was asked if I could prepare them something hearty and homely as they were observing the Purtassi fast and had a craving for home cooked meals. I said it wouldn’t be a problem but that it would take time.

They were willing to wait, fast forward an hour later, I presented them a selection of vegetarian curries with some roti and homemade pickles. They were impressed and blown away and left the restaurant very satisfied.

The next day while prepping for dinner, the couple returned once again and soon after became our very regular customers of the restaurant and also ordering meals at their home. The one thing that amazed me was their love for food and as I got to know them I realized that they also loved travelling and their love and appreciation for food grew as they experimented and tasted various foods from around the world.

They supported me at competitions and food shows, making time in their busy schedules to attend. When I moved to Jhb, they kept in contact with long calls and messages and what was even more amazing is that on almost every trip they made to Jhb they would also make the effort to meet even if it was just for a few minutes. They have since became parents to two awesome, intelligent and such talented children.

I am also in awe that despite their busy lifestyle and travels they are deeply rooted in their traditions and culture and this can be evidently seen in the upbringing of their children.

Today, I am immensely proud to see all of their love for food, family, tradition and culture come together in Perima’s Kitchen! To Solina, Resh, Shivaya and Yahvi, all the very best and I wish you many successes with Perima’s Kitchen.

May you grow from strength to strength and continue promoting our very proud heritage and culture! Onwards and upwards!

To friends who became family!

Keep the passion!
Chef Coo