Chef Joshua Clarke

I create Cape Town dining experiences rooted in African heritage, sustainability, and storytelling through food.

Asi Ndamase

I turn African heritage and indigenous ingredients into contemporary, story-driven meals.

Chef John

I’m Asithandile “Asi” Ndamase, a South African culinary creative whose journey began in 2014, guided by a deep love for food, culture, and the stories ingredients carry. Over the years I’ve grown into a private chef, chef instructor, recipe developer, event curator, and food storyteller, with a signature focus on African heritage and indigenous ingredients.

I hold an Honours Degree in Hospitality Management and I’m currently completing my Master’s, grounding my craft in research, leadership, and innovation. My path includes intensive training in five-star kitchens across South Africa and the United States, where I refined my technique, discipline, and commitment to luxury service standards.

Let’s plan your meal

Chef John
Cooking is my calm, my centre, my home. It’s the place where I can breathe and the place where I can make others feel held, nourished and seen

What you can expect when you dine with me

I cook to nourish and to hold space

Cooking is my calm, my centre, my home—it’s where I breathe, and where I make you feel held, nourished, and seen through every course.

My craft is built on purpose and training

Cooking has always been more than a skill for me—it’s a calling that started in childhood and continues to shape my purpose today, strengthened by years of professional growth and high-standard kitchen experience.

I respect every ingredient

My secret in the kitchen is embracing each and every ingredient and using it to its full potential—I approach everything I cook with respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my rates for private chef services in South Africa?

I build every menu from scratch, so what you pay depends on the dishes, how many guests, and the kind of service you want. Most of my dinners come to around 1080.50 ZAR, and I'll always work with the budget you have in mind. Send me a message and I'll put together a proposal for your event.

What kind of food do I specialize in?

I cook Local, Fusion, Chef's special and Seafood/Fish. I build my menus around ingredients that are in season and bought locally, because that's where the flavor is. And if anyone at your table has a dietary restriction, just tell me and I'll adjust the dishes so no one misses out.

How can you book my private chef services in South Africa?

To book me in South Africa, click the Book Now button on this page and follow the steps. You'll add your event date, guest count, and any dietary restrictions as you go. Once your request comes through, I read it myself and reply with a menu proposal and the dates I have open.

Do I provide private chef services for events or special occasions?

Yes. I regularly cook for Friends gathering. I handle the menu, the timing, and the setup so the meal fits the kind of event you're throwing. Send me your date and I'll check whether I'm free.

Can the menus accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?

Choose a menu, share your event details, and the Private Chef Manager team will help confirm the experience with the chef.