Nigerian restaurant ranks among top 200 in South Africa

Hombaze African Cuisine, a restaurant in South Africa owned by a Nigerian, has emerged among the top 200 restaurants in that country, winning the prestigious RASA/Rosetta Award.

The restaurant owned by Ken Ayere was nominated out of more than 85,000 outlets spread across South Africa.

The Restuarants Association of South Africa (RASA), organizers of the awards, said in a letter of nomination that Hombaze was nominated as a finalist for striving for service excellence and contributing to the upliftment of the restaurant industry.

"It is in recognition of the highest honors for service excellence and overall contribution to the innovation and uplift of the industry."

"Your participation and involvement in the restaurant industry is valued, and we thank you for the contributions you make to ensure its ongoing success," it said.

The association paid tribute to the management and members of staff of Hombaze for their passion, dedication, and hard work.

"As a token of acknowledgement, we recognize your passion, talents, dedication, commitment, and hard work for food and service of the highest standard.

"RASA is proud to be associated with restaurants of your caliber to be recognized and celebrated," it said.

The restaurateur, who has been residing in South Africa since 1996, has also been described by many South Africans as a worthy ambassador for his country, mentoring other Nigerians in that country on how to make a decent living.

Supreme reports that Ayere operates three restaurants in the country, including the one situated in high-brow Sandton mall adjacent to Nelson Mandela Square, as well as the one in Pretoria.

The clientele comprises Nigerians and South Africans as well as other foreigners who take delight in savoring the finger-licking Nigerian cuisines.