Nelson Mandela Bay “Shisa Nyama” Champion

Chilleks Place a sports bar and "tshisa nyama" in the heart of Port Elizabeth's oldest township Walmer, has shown the rest of South Africa that Nelson Mandela Bay is a destination to be reckoned with. When the flames rose and the competition heated Chillek’s Place braai team prevailed to become Champions in the first ever, Nando’s Shisa Nyama Championship which took place at the Bahama Bar in KwaThema, Springs, east of Johannesburg on Saturday, 26 October 2013.

The prize winning dish of marinated pork kebabs, mango salsa and pap – was good enough to beat 11 other shisa nyama's from around the country and a feat that braaiers Vuyisile Meko, 35, and Lutho Mabilisa, 25 can be proud of. Siyabulela Dandala, owner of Chilleks place shared, “The secret in going into the competition was to focus on quality and a unique flavour, much the same as what we believe in on a daily basis when serving our dishes right here at home.”

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) is proud to have members which are able to set themselves above the rest and showcase the talent that our people and destination have to offer. NMBT CEO, Ms Mandlakazi Skefile said, “To beat out 11 other braai teams from the rest of Africa and have the Champions from NMB is a true testament that our tourism products are able to rank among best. Not only have they received the Champion naming title and R25 000.00 but also the honour of hosting the event right here in Nelson Mandela Bay next year which highlights the city as well.”

The cultural, historical and tourism flavour in tourism is one of the top unique experiences tourist seek when visiting a destination. Chillek's Place has added a definite unique offering to Nelson Mandela Bay which combines a unique traditional experience, genuine local people and quality service. Siyabulela Dandala opened the establishment two and a half years ago and employs 14 Walmer township residents on a permanent and casual basis contributing a positive solution to job creation within the township area. The establishment was definitely opened with the community in mind and Chillek’s Place takes pride in serving the community and in addition tourists.

Mr Dandala confessed that sustainability of an establishment relies foremost on the locals and their support. Locals are not only happy to have an eatery to frequent or that the establishment creates jobs however Chillek’s Place believes in taking care of the community. “Dlulisa” – is a “pay it forward” system the establishment has implemented, whereby hey collect goods such as toys, clothes and food which gets added to by Mr Dandala and distributed to local community centres and churches. So when you visit Chilleks Place and enjoy the house favourite of Chicken wings, braai chops, homemade pap and chakalaka do not forget to take along your item for the "Dlulisi."