Despite hearing rumours about Chef Margot Janse’s intended departure from The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français whilst I was in Johannesburg last month, it was still a shock to hear the confirmation of her resignation today. 

Chef Margot has worked at Le Quartier Francais for the past twenty-one years, setting up the lauded The Tasting Room in this time. She is the most awarded South African chef, having received thirteen Eat Out Top 10 Restaurant Awards to date. She also won international awards for the restaurant.

She arrived in our country at the time that the late Mr Mandela was released from prison. She has traveled the world in the time that she has worked at Le Quartier Français, and has added a South African stamp to her dishes, including buchu, chakalaka, and baobab. She has fought for good service from her suppliers.

She is known for her ‘food theatre’, and creating balance on her plates. Africa is the inspiration in her dishes. Her dishes have texture and flavour. She is known to not play it safe in her cuisine.

She has dedicated time and energy to the Isabelo charity feeding project in Franschhoek, supplying 1300 school children with a substantial meal every school day, so that they have a good foundation for their day.

Mr Analjit Singh, CEO of the Leeu Collection, said: ‘We would like to thank Margot for her service and wish her well in her future endeavours. It is business as usual and we will announce more details about Margot’s replacement and the way forward to ensure the continuity and success of The Tasting Room in due course‘.

The future plans of Chef Margot, when she leaves Le Quartier Français at the end of April next year, are not yet known.

The Tasting Room, Le Quartier Francais, Leeu Collection, corner Huguenot and Berg Streets, Franschhoek.  Tel (021) 876-2151.  www.lqf.co.za  Twitter: @LeQuaf

Chris von Ulmenstein, WhaleTales Blog: www.whalecottage.com/blog Tel +27 082 55 11 323 Twitter:@Ulmenstein Facebook: click here Instagram: @Chris_Ulmenstein