Discover the Hidden Gems of South African Cuisine: How This TikTok Star is Making Food a Political Statement

Solly’s Corner, a popular fast food spot in downtown Johannesburg, buzzed with energy. The smell of sizzling hake and golden chips filled the air as green chillies were chopped for sandwiches.

Food influencer and radio DJ, Nick Hamman, stepped behind the counter, greeted like an old friend by the restaurant’s owners, Yoonas and Mohammed Akhalwaya. They run this family-owned business in Fordsburg, a historically vibrant area known for its South Asian and Middle Eastern culture.

Hamman, with over 200,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok, aims to uplift South Africa’s diverse food scene. For the past two years, he has shared videos promoting local eateries, seeking to bridge cultural divides. His videos often start with his familiar cheer: “I’m Nick Hamman!” He dives into searching for delicious dishes like boerewors sausages and biryani.

“Food connects people,” Hamman explains. “It’s tied to memory, history, and even politics. It tells our country’s story.” He often bases his visits on social media suggestions. “If a place gets suggested a lot, I check it out for sure.”

Solly’s Corner has been a staple since 1956. Yet, it faced challenges, including eviction attempts by the apartheid government and the recent struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’ve had our ups and downs, but we thank God,” says Yoonas.

Hamman’s videos featuring Solly’s Corner have garnered over 1.7 million views across platforms since October 2023. The Akhalwayas have shown their gratitude by creating a burger named after him and displaying a large image of him on their wall.

Just a bit farther away in Alexandra township, another inspiring story unfolds. Gift Sedibeng opened Siga Culinary restaurant in his parents’ former home, aiming to introduce new flavors to his community. After studying cooking in Texas, he returned to innovate traditional dishes like the “MexiKasi” kota burrito—a fusion of local and Mexican foods.

“Cooking brings me joy,” Sedibeng shares. “When guests enjoy a meal, it fills my heart.” Interestingly, about 60% of his patrons come from outside Alexandra, often sharing that they feel safe visiting.

Hamman believes that by highlighting places like Siga Culinary, we can help revitalize local economies. He emphasizes, “If we don’t showcase these gems, they won’t thrive.” The township has a challenging reputation, yet it is rich with cultural history and culinary vibrancy, especially visible in locations like Madala hostel.

Madala hostel, notorious in the past, now holds a lively food culture. Here, grilled meats fill the air, with stories of Zulu traditions and community growing stronger. Local chefs serve dishes like shisanyama—meat cooked over an open fire—to eager customers.

Wandile “Wax” Dhlamini, a local guide, appreciates this culinary shift. “Food is our culture. It connects us.” The transformation shows how food can uplift communities, bringing together flavors and stories from the past and present.

Recent statistics suggest that food tourism can significantly benefit economies. A report from the United Nations indicates that local food experiences can boost small businesses and help sustain communities. By drawing attention to places like Solly’s Corner and Siga Culinary, influencers like Hamman not only celebrate food but invest in uplifting their communities.

In a world where food unites people, the stories of places in Johannesburg remind us that every meal tells a tale and every dish connects us to our roots.



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