Chef Shankar R. Santhiram’s South African Adventure
Who Is Shankar?
Shankar R. Santhiram is a celebrated chef, leadership mentor, and the creative force behind Penang’s acclaimed restaurant Fire by Shankar. He blends Malaysian‑Tamil flavors with a warm, welcoming personality that has won fans across the globe, especially in South Africa.
Why South Africa?
South Africa’s vibrant food scene and diverse cultures have attracted many international culinary stars. Shankar joins the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver, and Warren Mendes, who have all explored the country’s markets, landscapes, and flavors.
Filming the New TV Pilot
Shankar is currently in Johannesburg shooting the pilot for a 10‑part travel‑food series (the official title is still under wraps). His journey mixes sightseeing, cooking, and meeting local food heroes.
First Stop: Dosa Hut in Fordsburg
On a Monday visit to the bustling Fordsburg Market, Shankar stopped at Dosa Hut, a beloved spot known for its crispy tosai and affordable prices. The dosa master, Manikandan, recognized Shankar from social media and invited him to try the signature dish. Shankar praised the tosai’s crunch and the fresh coconut chutney, promising to return whenever he’s in town.
Lights, Camera, Action in Rosebank
Filming kicked off on Tuesday, June 30 at Modern Tailor’s, an Indian restaurant in Rosebank. Shankar shared his excitement on social media: “South Africa… it’s show time! First day of filming the pilot for my new TV series here in South Africa! We’re filming at the beautiful Indian restaurant Modern Tailor’s in Rosebank, Johannesburg. Excited? Absolutely. Nervous? Just a bit. Lights, camera, action… wish me luck fam!”
Banana Leaf Sundays and Live Demos
Beyond the camera, Shankar is bringing his signature Banana Leaf Sappadu experience to South African fans.
Durban’s Banana Leaf Festival
On Sunday, July 5, Shankar will host a Banana Leaf Sunday Sappadu in Durban. He invites everyone to grab tickets via the Quicket link before they sell out and enjoy a communal feast served on banana leaves.
East Coast Radio House & Garden Show
Earlier, on Friday, June 3, Shankar appeared on the East Coast Radio House & Garden Show for a live cooking demonstration, showcasing quick, tasty recipes that highlight local ingredients.
Past Visits and Community Work
Shankar’s connection with South Africa isn’t new:
- December 2024: Launched a tour of communal banana leaf meals in Cape Town and Durban.
- February 2025: Returned for intensive cooking workshops in Johannesburg and Durban.
- May 2025: Conducted special culinary workshops and community celebrations in Durban and Cape Town.
Each trip has deepened his appreciation for the country’s cultural diversity and food traditions.
What’s Next?
After the Johannesburg shoot, Shankar will head to Durban for the Banana Leaf Festival and continue exploring local eateries for his series. Fans can follow his adventures on TikTok and Instagram, where he shares behind‑the‑scenes clips, recipe tips, and friendly shout‑outs.
Conclusion
Chef Shankar R. Santhiram’s South African journey is a tasty blend of exploration, community, and entertainment. From savoring dosai in Fordsburg to filming a TV pilot in Rosebank and hosting banana leaf feasts in Durban, he’s bringing a splash of Malaysian‑Tamil flair to the Rainbow Nation. Whether you’re a foodie, a spice lover, or just curious about new flavors, Shankar’s adventures offer something delicious for everyone.
