Durban — KwaZulu-Natal’s culinary scene was ablaze with excitement as Cafe India emerged victorious in this year’s Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer competition, a prestigious event dedicated to recognising the best bunny chow in the region.
The vibrant community came together for the grand finale held at the picturesque Blue Lagoon in Durban on Sunday.
The owner of Cafe India, Philicia Govender, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the recognition.
“I am still in awe of God's work. I am excited,” she said.
After receiving the award, Govender revealed that her husband, Gerald Govender, purchased the business for her, and with the support of her assistant Tino, it has been steadily growing.
“Coca-Cola has given me exposure and publicity like never before. I finished third last year, but there was not much recognition.
“This year, I am excited for the growth that will come with this win. My future prospects include opening a new branch,’’ she said.
This esteemed competition, now in its fifteenth year, not only identifies the best bunny chow but also ignites local pride in Durban's rich culinary heritage. Participants vied for their share of R100 000 in prizes, a vital financial boost for the winning establishment that may aid in expanding their offerings or business operations.
The competition’s second runner-up was Gregory Naidoo, owner of BP Chatsworth and last year's champion.
“Thank you, Coca-Cola, for your generosity,” he said.
Naidoo highlighted the importance of community support and credited his dedicated staff for their passion and commitment.
“This second place belongs to you as much as it does to me. You all are not just our customers — you are family,’’ he said.
Nosihle Mthethwa, CCBSA’s District Manager for KZN Central, encapsulated the essence of the event, stating that it brings communities together and provides a platform for local entrepreneurs to shine.
“As we approach the festive season, we could think of no better way to kick it off than with the 2024 Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer,’’ she stated.
Independent Media National Marketing Manager, Shabnum Moosa, expressed excitement for continuing the partnership with the Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge, underlining the significance of acknowledging Durban's culinary legacy.
CCBSA Coastal Region’s General Manager, Richard Willington praised the competition’s high standards.
“This is the 15th annual Bunny Chow Barometer Competition and every year the bar is raised higher. The competition is so intense and very little separated our top 10 finalists, but congratulations to Café India for being a very worthy winner for 2024.”
“We hope this cash prize helps Philicia grow her business further, as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the SMME sector.”
He added: “The Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge is not only a highlight of Durban’s annual social calendar but also a way to bring communities together and support small businesses, which are vital for economic growth.”
Willington added: “The Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge is a wonderful event on the annual social calendar in Durban and is one of the ways in which CCBSA seeks to support and bring local communities together. However, it also underpins the importance of supporting the SMME sector which is a key enabler of economic growth.”
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