Cape Malay cooking classes at Faeeza’s Home Kitchen

Prince Harry, Roger Federer & more have visited Faeeza's

Last updated: Monday, 05 August 2024

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Roger Federer are just some of the famous guests who’ve visited this small purple house in Bo-Kaap. It’s even been featured on Netflix’s Someone Feed Phil.

Part of the pull, no doubt, is Faeeza, for whom every dish is an opportunity to educate about Cape Malay heritage. And she doesn’t just offer cooking classes. There’s also traditional meals at her Tea Garden.

Faeeza’s Home Kitchen is a family-run business offering cooking classes and a sit-down restaurant. Image: Faeeza's Home Kitchen

CULINARY JOURNEY ROOTED IN HERITAGE 

Faeeza Abrahams’ culinary journey began in this very neighbourhood, where she was inspired by her mother’s cooking. “My mum never taught me her recipes, but I knew exactly how they had to taste,” says Faeeza. 

At just 15 years old, she sold homemade sandwiches to office workers throughout the city. Eventually her sandwich business grew roots at the University of Cape Town. 

By 55, Faeeza decided to write a new chapter in her story, turning her home into a base for Cape Malay cooking classes — a place where her love for cooking and sharing could flourish. 

Faeeza’s Home Kitchen is located in Chiappini Lane in Bo-Kaap. Image: Abby Temfwe @wholefoodabroad

CAPE MALAY COOKING CLASSES 

Vibrant hues of the Bo-Kaap greet you as you make your way to Faeeza’s. Inside, the ambiance is cosy and familiar, just like a family home. 

You'll learn how to roll your own rotis, fry samoosas and chilli bites until golden brown, and cook maybe the best curry you’ve ever had. You’ll end the class with tea and warm, sticky koesisters, served by Faeeza and her daughters. 

In the Cape Town episode of Someone Feed Phil, Phil described his connection with Faeeza and her family as instant. “It’s impossible to meet kinder, friendlier, or more hospitable people,” he noted, reflecting the sentiment shared by many who have visited Faeeza’s Home Kitchen. 

Cooking classes at Faeeza’s Home Kitchen are around two to three hours long. Image: Eat Like a Local @eatlikealocal_capetown

OR VISIT THE TEA GARDEN

If you’d rather pop in for a quick visit, Faeeza’s Tea Garden is in a large courtyard with a beautiful view of Signal Hill.  

The menu consists of dishes like chilli bites, bobotie and curry (beef, chicken or vegetarian), all served with rice or rotis. Desserts include koesisters, milk tart, baked cheesecake, and almond & cashew tartlets.

And, if you’d like to learn more about Bo-Kaap and its history, you can pair a visit with a guided walk through the Cape Malay Quarter.

The food is cooked when you order, so expect a home-cooked experience rather than traditional restaurant service. Image: Reveler Africa @revelerafricatravel 

HERE’S WHAT THE GOOGLE REVIEWS SAY

“The place to be when you visit Bo-Kaap. Excellent food that’s homemade and affordable, very friendly service. Faeeza is a part of Bo-Kaap, she has an unbelievable power. Don’t miss meeting her.” – Werner Wichelhaus

“Faeeza’s great personality, teaching style and good humour was wonderful to experience as she taught us how to make chicken curry, roti, samosas and chilli bites. A worthwhile morning with great company, good experience and tasty food. We enjoyed the time spent with Faeeza, and she shared the recipes so we can take them back home.” – Yassie ZA 

“Gorgeous place! I had a wonderful experience there. Special thanks to Miss Faeeza for teaching us how to make several dishes. The taste of the food you make yourself is totally different.” – Fayhoon Faisal

“The food was incredible and they were so kind to serve us even in the height of load shedding (and at the odd hour when we showed up). What a great experience!” – Courtney Petersen

“A hidden gem that has rapidly gained popularity. It’s a delightful spot to try out, especially if you're a fan of unique culinary experiences. The menu features standout dishes like bobotie and lovely curries all Cape Malay style, which are both delicious and authentic.” – Gilbert Carstens

Lots of people have team building, year end and birthday functions at Faeeza’s. Image: Eat Like a Local @eatlikealocal_capetown

VISIT FAEEZA’S 

Faeeza’s Home Kitchen is open: Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm; Saturday, 9am to 4pm
Find it: Chiappini Lane, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Book: Via the Faeeza's Home Kitchen website  
Contact on: 
Cooking classes
072 120 3710, bookings@faeezashomekitchen.com 
Functions and catering
082 413 33 44, events@faeezashomekitchen.com 

By Tamia Retief

---

TRY SOMETHING NEW 

If you’re a foodie looking for something new to try, check out Food Jams. 

Not sure what to do for your team building? Have a look at these 15+ team building ideas.

Spice up your birthday celebration and explore some of these special birthday party places.

Here’s our guide to events happening this week(end).

---

Loved discovering this?  Make sure you get our popular weekly newsletter. Follow and like us on Twitter ❤ Facebook ❤ LinkedIn ❤ Instagram ❤ Pinterest for updates.