Africola is a high-flying rabble-rousing eatery in Adelaide, a favourite of visiting rock-stars (such as Katy Perry) and dignitaries alike. It has upstaged Australia’s most elite diners by ransacking prestigious accolades in the food world. To understand the experience within you can imagine Africola as a type of music, a full on mash of Kwaito, Euro pop, and black metal.

Duncan Welgemoed, owner and chef, has worked for some of the most intimidating names in food, such as Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal. His resume is studded with Michelin-starred restaurants, including Hakkasan, Quay, and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons. He was also the head chef at The Goose in Oxford when it was awarded its Michelin star.

With guest appearances in both MasterChef Australia and My Kitchen Rules, Duncan’s punk mechanic approach to food is fearless, take-no-prisoners, bold and exciting. As you could imagine, Duncan and I became friends which is how my ceramics ended up on the bar’s mantlepiece. I also aided the interior designer with visual references for the African inspired getup. 

The signature crispy chicken tea sandwich with peri peri drippings alone is reason enough to visit. Crisp-shelled kohlrabi cake with tofu cream is surprisingly delicate, while the mushrooms with white bean and chilli crisp are bound to give you dirty dreams.

- Africola Website
- Interior Design by MASH