Smoke, stories and soul: Vusi Ndlovu and Absie Pantshwa's modern African fine-dining revolution episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 18, 2026 · 37 MIN

Smoke, stories and soul: Vusi Ndlovu and Absie Pantshwa's modern African fine-dining revolution

from What’s the Difference? A Woolies Food Podcast · host Woolworths

What happens when you treat fire as an ingredient rather than just heat? Chef Vusi Ndlovu and restaurateur Absie Pantshwa, the dynamic duo behind Cape Town's acclaimed Edge restaurant, reveal how they're revolutionising African fine-dining. From minimalist plates, championing female winemakers and unconventional pairings (yes, including Black Label beer!), the duo explains why "cooking with fire" requires both humility and mastery. Plus, Scott Parker, Product Development Manager: Culinary Innovation, Research and Development at Woolworths, explains how umleqwa made it into stores. New episodes every Wednesday Brought to you by Woolworths Produced by POP24   Shop the Snack & Yap products: https://tinyurl.com/cztnnywc Our legal team wants you to read this disclaimer: https://www.woolworths.co.za/corporate/cmp215994  13:50 Watch Johannes Richter’s episode of What’s the Difference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2lRhsTlXIY&t=668s Learn more about Edge restaurant: https://edgerestaurant.africa/ Follow along on the transcript: https://www.woolworths.co.za/corporate/cmp216013 

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Smoke, stories and soul: Vusi Ndlovu and Absie Pantshwa's modern African fine-dining revolution

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