Signal – Malika Van Reenen

MALIKA VAN REENEN- BIO

Malika van Reenen has embraced the Hospitality industry for 16 years; having spent the last five years at Cape Grace as the Award Winning Executive Chef of Signal Restaurant.

After completing her studies in 1998, she made her mark internationally and locally through culinary excellence, one of which included designing a proudly South African Menu for the Les Trois Rois Grand Hotel in Switzerland.

Success continued to follow Malika through an invitation to design yet another South African specialized menu for Zimbabwe’s Premier Hotel, Meikles.

Malika’s roots grow deep through authentic Cape Malay inspiration, which she has fostered by hosting international culinary journalists showcasing her skills in custom-made interactive cooking experiences and achieving wide spread recognition.

Intrigued by the various spices of Cape Malay culture and tradition, coupled by the tantalizing sweet-and-sour element of her unique inspiration drives Malika to create masterpieces in the kitchen; always embracing what she knows best – her heritage, but executing it in a way that is modern and applicable to the culinary trends of today!

During August 2012, Malika guaranteed Signal Restaurant the title of Master of the Trade Routes, with her bobotie-spiced springbok loin, parsnip puree, spiced mango pickle, almond crumble and rooibos-scented lentil jus. “I chose the Deconstructed Springbok Bobotie dish for the challenge, because it is a traditional Cape Malay dish with a modern twist. “ “Winning the challenge is a huge honor, made even more special as it’s a competition amongst Cape Town’s very best restaurants.” says Malika.

Malika continues to lead Signal Restaurant to more wins; when the restaurant walked away with the coveted Best Dish Award at The Taste of the Cape Town in 2012 with her Grilled Prawn, Green Risotto and Spiced Mango Foam.

Malika oversees the all-encompassing element of Cape Grace’s Food and Beverage offerings, including that of Signal Restaurant, Bascule Whisky, Wine & Cocktail Bar as well as In room Dining – always ensuring that the discerning Cape Grace guest is treated with deluxe, yet understated indigenous specialties.

Signal Restaurant at the Cape Grace

Hundreds of years ago, sailors braved high seas and unchartered territories to introduce the world to the wonders of fragrant herbs and spices.

In an age of discovery, where cultures and customs have paved the way for diverse cuisines and time-honoured cooking methods, Signal encourages the global traveller to plot a course over the Cape’s ancestral landscape. With ingredients encompassing responsible and sustainable food practices and dishes crossing worldwide borders, we welcome you and hope you enjoy your journey.