December 2020 – Cape Town Thing

December 30, 2020December 18, 2020

Fish Parcel

Fish parcel

Fish parcel is a self taught club DJ and also the founder of ‘Fish Parcel and Friends’ a monthly nightlife event that focuses on the freshest hip-hop music. His range allows him to play in most Cape Town clubs (Such as Sneaker Cartel, waiting room, as well as some of the biggest festivals. His love for music and DJing stems from a keen interest in Hip-hop music from a very young age.

“I’m just a really huge hip-hop fan and I believe it’s the cornerstone for DJing. After all, that’s how it all started, with people scratching and remixing instrumentals and having people rapping over that”. Fish Parcel said when asked where it all started.

Apart from being a DJ, Fish Parcel is also a Medical student at the University of Stellenbosch Time management is extremely crucial to him. “It’s important to have people to delegate to”. something he attributes his success to. At the moment his goal is to become a music producer. He explains that DJing is helping to facilitate the process because it allows him networking opportunities where he gets introduced to other DJ’s and producers at events.

Parcels, as he is affectionately known, adds that he is very meticulous with his work and he tries to teach himself as much as he can to polish and perfect his craft. “A lot of people think they can just rap or create a simple beat and they will automatically blow up. It doesn’t work like that”. He emphasises the importance of growing one’s brand through hard work instead of clout.

Make sure to follow our social media platforms @capetownthing and keep on the lookout for more blogs uncovering the young talent that’s right here in Cape Town.

December 28, 2020December 18, 2020

Burgers

What makes a burger the best type of food?

Who truly knows why a bite from a simple burger can change your entire day for the better? What makes it such a special meal is the question on everyone’s mind.

A large part of my first year in varsity was spent bar and restaurant hopping, looking for the best that Cape Town could offer on a limited budget. Although it’s hard to choose, a list of my favourite burger joints would include Clarke’s Bar and Dining room found in Bree Street, Royale Eatery in the infamous Long Street and of course, Jerry’s Burger bar in Lower Main Road, Observatory.

From travelling through Cape Town in search of the best burger place, I found myself concluding on the fact that the secret is surely in the millions of things you can do to just any burger. No place was identical to the other in taste or texture. Everyone had a special element or ingredient that stuck them out from the crowd.

From the bread bun, that is either toasted, white, brown, seeded or the burgers itself that replace the bun, sliced in half, then in-between goes your meat preference and a large array of toppings – Cheese, onions, leaves, mushrooms, avocado, bacon etc. There is such a strong Flex of flavour from the ground beef alone. A burger is not only beef optioned, but an array of different meats that makes certain to present the art of its simplicity, to every single preference, but ground beef is what makes it such an artistic science.

What’s your favourite burger joint in Cape Town and how would you rate it out of 10. Be sure to check out our previous blog on French food in Cape Town. While you’re at it, go ahead and follow @CapeTownThing on Instagram.

December 26, 2020December 18, 2020

We Celebrate 3 Amazing South Africa Designers in 2020

This year has been extremely difficult for fashion locally and internationally. And with a new year approaching we can’t forget to celebrate and acknowledge all the amazing, talented and gifted local designers who made heatwaves this year. These designers, brands and their team worked tirelessly to make the South African fashion into a powerhouse of creativity and chic.

Sindiso Khumalo

South African textile and fashion designer Sindiso Khumalo has scooped the title of Independent Designer of the Year at the prestigious Green Carpet Fashion Awards in 2020. Sindiso Khumalo, the designer behind the namesake label, has a very rich cross-cultural background. Born in Botswana and raised in Durban, South Africa, she went on to live and work in the United Kingdom. Sindiso focuses on women’s RTW, she was shortlisted in Elle Magazine’s, ‘Rising Star Competition’ in 2012, where she showcased her debut SS13 collection. Her ‘Aretha Dress’ was nominated for, ‘Most Beautiful Object in South Africa’ by an online publication, Design Indaba. She was also an LVMH Prize finalist. We can’t wait to see what she does next.

Thebe Magugu

Thebe Magugu Born and raised in the small town of Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa, his passion for fashion led him to Johannesburg to pursue a degree in fashion. The brand focuses on women’s ready-to-wear. Thebe Magugu won the LVMH Prize 2019, and International Fashion Showcase 2019 from the British Fashion Council. He was also acknowledged as a Rising Star in GQ South Africa. British Vogue September issue. 2019 was Thebe Magugu’s year, but he is not letting a global pandemic curb his rise to stardom. This year Magugu paid homage to his homeland with a photo exhibition entitled Ipopeng Ext, after an area in Kimberley, South Africa, the city in which he grew up. Fittingly, the name itself translates as “to beautify oneself.”

Maxhosa

When Johannesburg-based designer Laduma Ngxokolo, 33, launched his Maxhosa brand in 2012, he wanted to work with mohair produced in his native Eastern Cape. Ngxokolo first created his premium knitwear, with geometric shapes woven from bright threads, for amakrwala, the young Xhosa men who dress elegantly as a sign they have completed their initiation ceremonies. The line has since evolved to include womenswear and home goods. “It’s important for me to preserve our culture,” says Ngxokolo, who uses Xhosa beadwork as an inspiration for his slinky dresses and cardigans striped in typical Xhosa colours of yellow, red and blue. The label, now rebranded as MAXHOSA Africa, has a flagship store at Mall of Africa in Johannesburg, while the ready-to-wear collection is also available at selected boutiques in SA, New York, France, Australia and online.

We are extremely proud of these designers who keep putting South African designs and fashion at the forefront of international markets. These brands show that there is more to African fashion that meets the eye. We can’t wait to see what they all do next.

For more fashion blogs, follow us on Instagram to stay updated on the latest fashion news and trends.

December 24, 2020December 18, 2020

Chinese Food In Cape Town

Chinese Food in Cape Town

If you’re in the mood for some spring rolls, sweet and sour chicken, vegetable lo Mein, or a shrimp chow mein, look no further than the precious Mother City in all her multi-cultural glory.

Whether you’re enjoying your food at the restaurant table or you prefer the comfort of your own couch, accompanied by a glass of wine, the unique, irresistible flavours of the orient will have you licking your fingers and chopsticks at the end of each meal.

Fill your bowl with tasty nibbles of steamed buns, wontons and potstickers at the South China Dim Sum Bar situated on Long Street in the city bowl. Or if you’re closer to the Southern Suburbs, head over to the Mainland China restaurant in Claremont.

In my first-year escapades as a University student, I’d frequent the Mainland China with friends to exploit their all-you-can-eat R55 Sunday lunch special. So, if you’re a student or on a budget, do with this information what you will. Another firm favourite is Monk’s Chinese Food. Apart from the convenience of ordering your food via WhatsApp, this popular takeaway service offers an unmatched taste of China. They are the best bet for comfort food at the end of a long day and will have you returning time and time again.

A list of our favourite Chinese restaurants in Cape Town also includes Tai Chung in Athlone, Tai Ping in Newlands and Chuck Yang’s in Rondebosch to name a few. Make sure to make your reservations or swing over to spoil yourself with some great Asian cuisine. Check out our Instagram page @capetownthing to see more of our favourite spots in the Mother City.

Don’t forget to read all about Amapiano Music in our previous blog as well.

December 23, 2020December 18, 2020

Sunset Paradise

Sunset Paradise is a conceptual event. It aims to create an inclusive space for queers and peers that exudes beauty and sun kissed moments, in an intimate setting on a beautiful rooftop. Whether you’re sipping on a cocktail, cider or champagne, the experience, mated with wonderful music, is nothing but bliss.

Curated by Caps Lock Concepts, Sunset Paradise advocates for the representation of queer bodies in the Cape Town nightlife scene by creating bespoke events in different settings that cater to various demographics. The event is held at the Grand Daddy Hotel in Cape Town because it offers a very relaxed rooftop area and this would be great for summer events and for a cocktail under the sun.

The guests are expected to arrive between 3-4pm. They are escorted to their tables by the hostess. They order a cocktail or cider just to get into the groove of things as the night slowly creeps in. The Dj plays fan favourites to get the guest on the dancefloor and slightly dehydrated so they eventually gravitate towards the bar to quench their thirst. The mood simmers down to accommodate the live performances for about 20-30 mins. Then the DJ turns up the heat, now the night is in full force. The guests are beginning to make decisions they are likely to regret in the morning. This is a measure of a great night. Around 9:30-10pm, the guests slowly trickle out to enjoy the rest of the night elsewhere.

Sunset Paradise is an event advocating for the representation of queer bodies in the Cape Town nightlife scene. The plan, according to the creators, is to host this event every second month and to create a safe space for queer people to relax and have fun with their peers. The event is set on a theme so as to make the experience new and exciting each time. The target market leans towards a youthful and vibey crowd of queer young proffessionals who arent afriad to spend money. However, the doors are open to everyone.

December 22, 2020December 22, 2020

French Food

French Food in Cape Town

French food is typified by its high sophistication, boasting an upper echelon rank in the world’s culinary pyramid. Some foodies, however, may also describe it as being incredibly fussy and pretentious. Cape Town hosts a seeminglyan infinite number of French restaurants, deliciously representing a variety of regions in France. From the simple crepe to the slightly more complicated Cassoulet, you can find it all in the comfort of the Mother City.

The Cargill restaurant in Rondebosch is the best place to be if you’re hoping to enjoy an authentic French meal. Be prepared to be greeted by the smell of freshly baked tarts and quiche from the moment you enter.

Closer to the CBD, you’ll find the Thirty7 Restaurant. The open show kitchen makes the culinary experience even more delightful. Set within the 5-star Westin Hotel, the Thirty7 offers a wide selection of French delicacies and the food quality is exceptional. Instead of standing in a crazy long queue for an overpriced sandwich at the CTICC after a conference, head over across the road and eat at the Thirty7. You won’t regret it.

Experience fine dining and elegance at its best at the La Mouette restaurant in Sea Point. True to the nature of France, this husband-and-wife owned mansion is a great place to enjoy a romantic night out. Indulge yourself with the house-made ricotto tartellini with umami emulsion, pastry oil and almond crumble, or as they call it, “a French classic with a twist”.

December 22, 2020December 18, 2020

Smiley Da Boss

Kabelo Rafelane was born and bred in Pretoria. He credits his cousin as the spark that lit his passion for music. “One day I saw my cousin using Virtual DJ to play at family functions. He taught me the basics of the software and I taught myself every other technicality”. Smiley has aspirations of growing his career beyond the decks. The ultimate goal, according to him, is to be a full time artist and not just a DJ.

“I want my music to transcend borders, for my sets to leave an everlasting impression but most importantly, for my craft to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves”

Smiley adds that a lot of people he encounters ask him about the origin of his name. “I actually got this name in grade 2 because I’ve always been a happy person. I was always smiling and always laughing, it’s always been about the good vibes. So I call myself Smiley De Boss because I’m a boss and i’m always smiling”, he said with a smile on his face.

It goes without saying that UCT campus parties would not be the same without the high energy sets by DJ Smiley Da Boss. He makes it his personal mission to leave the crowd wanting more.

“I have been a die-hard lover of music from a very young age, from when I was born actually. I’d listen to the radio very often and I’d listen to these things called “mixes”, usually by DJ Kent”.

In his budding career, Smiley has played sets alongside some of South Africa’s heavyweight DJ’s such as DJ PH, MRF Souls, TashingaMTK… and the list goes on. His popularity gained him a residency at Amapiano Sundays, a weekly event for students hosted at Kind Regards in Observatory.

You can find him on Instagram @smileydeboss_sa

December 19, 2020December 18, 2020

Fashion Magazine You Could Be Featured On.

As a designer, fashion Influencers or blogs we all want to be on the glossy pages of Vogue, GLAMOUR and so many more. But the print industry is slowly dying all around the world. But don’t be alarmed there are online alternatives that you and your work can be a feature on. And All you to do is put yourself out there. Take a lip of faith and submit your work to the following magazine.

Africa is now Magazine

“AFRICA IS NOW is an online magazine focusing on the contemporary African content. It serves as a platform for African creatives and creativity, showcasing fashion, photographers, beauty, art, culture, music and the voices of the people of Africa. We’re seeking out the emerging tastemakers, creative collectives and game-changers shaping the future of Africa right now. From vibrant visual essays to in-depth interviews and multimedia, AFRICA IS NOW offers a rich snapshot of the creative work spanning the continent and its diaspora.” – Africa is Now magazine

Website: https://africaisnowmag.com/fashion/

Afrostyle

Its motive is to capture the African style in an authentic way and it has done it with passion and commitments. It brings together different fashions from all parts of African and showcased it through their line of fashion. They create beautiful editorials that have been seen globally.

Website: https://www.afrostylemagazineexclusives.com/

Glam Africa

This is among the top leading magazine that keeps you updated with what is new in the fashion world. It has an amazing outline which is tailor-made. It also brings you all the entertainment and gives news on fashion events. www.glamafrica.com

These are the 3 magazines we think all designers and brands should reach out to. If you know or own a fashion magazine please comment on our Instagram, we will more than happy to feature your magazine or fashion platform on our next blog post. For more fashion blogs please follow our Instagram for updates.

December 16, 2020December 16, 2020

There’s a new gin in town…

There's a new gin in town...

The story behind Kitapo African gin:

The Kafue River of the Zambezi is home to the infamous mermaid Kitapo. Infamous for her long black hair and red glowing eyes, Kitapo is said to have fallen in love with the river god Nyami Nyami. However, on being separated from his wife as a result of the construction of the Kariba dam, the river god is said to have unleashed vengeful floods and tremors that still plague the land today.

Inspired by the mermaid, Kitapo African Gin is distilled in Cape Town with an unwavering commitment to quality. We have chosen ingredients grown under the African sun that are bold and truly embody the Spirit of Africa, more especially the Kafue River of the Zambezi.

At Kitapo, we aim to tell and celebrate the forgotten stories of our heritage. In addition to making products that we can be proud of and can identify with, we look forward to collaborating with other businesses to promote African stories and culture.

The gin itself:

Crafted from a blend of grape spirit our African Gin is traditional in flavour while allowing the palate to experience a sense of the Kafue River. We have infused this base with various organic botanicals from different river beds.

With juniper as the most prominent flavour, the gin is infused with hints of Turkish delight and rounded off by notes of cardamom and citrus. Once ice is added, the flavours bloom making each sip unforgettable.

Perfectly poised to appeal to the sophisticated craft gin consumer, this gin is minimalist with a touch of elegance.

December 15, 2020December 18, 2020

Tashinga MTK

TashingaMTK

Popular Tashinga is a versatile club and event DJ based in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa. With a background in Event Promoting and Club Management, he has a vast knowledge of getting a crowd of any size to have a great experience.

The steady rise of his brand got him appointed as a brand ambassador for premium champagne, Luc Belaire, and rum brand, Bumbu. The 27-year-old Zimbabwean native is one of the hottest DJ’s to appear in the Cape Town scene.

TashingaMTK undoubtedly owned 2019 on the decks. He has taken the civic task of meeting the dance floor needs of South Africans with his unrelenting enthusiasm behind the decks. “A friend of mine by the name of VJ Jonno taught me how to DJ. That is when I discovered that maybe I could do this.”

Touching on his tertiary days, Tashinga shares how he studied videography at AFDA and later developed a passion for photography, teaching himself in his spare time. Having dabbled in many streams, Tashinga settled firmly in his first media company in 2011, Greenback Media Group.

“I’m a DJ, club manager, brand strategist, and entrepreneur”, says the Cape Town DJ when asked to describe himself. Tashinga has established himself as a force in the Cape Town entertainment industry. It is safe to say that more can be expected of him. You can find him on

Instagram @tashingamtk