Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
BULAWAYO has long been known as the country’s artistic and cultural crown jewel, a city that proudly carries its heritage through visual art, music and especially food.
While the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAAs) have traditionally celebrated the city’s creative talent, recognising excellence in the culinary arts has become equally important. These honours are more than symbolic. They spark growth, inspire innovation and strengthen community pride.
Awards that celebrate chefs and food institutions elevate the entire gastronomic landscape, encouraging a culture of creativity and excellence. The recent success of the Bulawayo Eats Awards is a clear example of how such platforms can energise the local food sector, bringing together hospitality leaders, food lovers and the broader community.
Held at a notable city venue, the Bulawayo Eats Awards drew more than 200 attendees. The evening was a sensory treat, hosted by popular Bulawayo comic Mbongeni Ignatius whose comedic flair set the tone, while live music from the Shadow Circuit Band added rhythm and warmth to the festivities.
Ten awards were presented on the night, honouring individuals and establishments that have significantly enriched Bulawayo’s dining culture. The winners were:
Restaurant of the Year: Fairy Café
Takeaway of the Year: Slice Pizzeria
Butchery of the Year: Wholesale Beef
Supermarket of the Year: Fazak
Bakery of the Year: Nicolette’s Eatery & Bakery
Chef of the Year: Chef John (Sushi King)
Waiter of the Year: Hillary Nsingo (The Bowery)
Best Traditional Cuisine: Fresh Traditional
Best International Cuisine: Xai Xai
Best Braai Spot: Hartsfield Tshisanyama
Bulawayo Eats team member Shane Manjelo expressed gratitude to the community for its continued support.
“The success of this year’s awards reflects the incredible talent and passion within our local food scene. We are proud to recognise those who push the boundaries of quality, service and culinary creativity.”
He also revealed that preparations for the 2026 edition are already underway and that next year’s event will be “bigger, better and even more immersive.”
From an industry perspective, culinary accolades play a far-reaching role. African Food Revolution representative Makhosi Mahlangu emphasised their importance for the hospitality ecosystem.
“Awards are critical in advancing the hotel and culinary sector in Bulawayo. Feedback from customers is encouraging, but recognition from institutions builds confidence across the board,” he said.
Mahlangu added that awards increase visibility for chefs and establishments, often resulting in greater clientele.
They also help unify and showcase Bulawayo’s cultural diversity while strengthening the city’s broader food systems.
Reflecting on his own experience, Mahlangu noted that being honoured at the BAAs in 2021 for his debut book Our Food, Our Heritage, Our Culture opened new doors in his culinary journey.
Magriza Made Me Cook founder, Prince Sivalo Mahlangu, echoed similar sentiments.
“Awards motivate individuals to keep pushing their craft. In food, they spotlight those working to advance the culinary narrative in Bulawayo and Zimbabwe. They help us appreciate the beauty of our culinary diversity and honour those preserving this vital part of our heritage.” — Follow on X: @MbuleloMpofu
derick.khumalo