I create bespoke dining experiences with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and calm precision—so you can relax and enjoy every moment.

Lamla Magidlana

I cook with love, passion, and fresh ingredients that let the flavors speak for themselves

I’m Lamla, a passionate and dedicated chef with over a decade of experience across local and international kitchens. I trained at Fusion Cooking School (graduated in 2015), and I’ve worked in a variety of fast-paced, quality-driven environments that sharpened my creativity and standards.

I expanded my skills at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin, Texas, working across sections like grill, pantry, appetizers, banquets, and sauté—where I learned precision, adaptability, and how to deliver excellence under pressure. Back in South Africa, I grew into a Sous Chef role at Amapondo Backpackers, creating memorable meals for guests from around the world while managing day-to-day kitchen operations. Today, I focus on delivering high-quality, tailored dining with a balance of relaxation and creativity.

Let’s plan your menu

My secret in the kitchen is using fresh ingredients, perfect seasoning, and strong time management.

What you get when you book with me

I cook to connect people

For me, cooking is a form of expression and a way to communicate with people. I love how food brings communities together, helps me meet new people, and gives me that mix of relaxation and excitement—every service.

I learned from family, school, and real kitchens

I learned by watching cooking shows, learning from my dad, and studying Culinary Arts—but I believe learning never stops. Every kitchen I’ve worked in has added a new layer to my skills, from technique and precision to creativity and execution.

I keep it fresh, seasoned, and on time

My philosophy is simple: I rely on fresh ingredients, I season with intention, and I manage time properly. That’s how I keep quality consistent and make every plate feel thoughtful and effortless.

Chef Lamla’s Menus

I offer seasonal and signature menus—from light summer plates to comforting winter favorites, a refined four-course experience, a South African braai spread, and a wholesome vegetarian selection. I tailor each menu to your occasion while keeping my focus on fresh ingredients, great flavor, and smooth service.

Request a menu

Stories and testimonials

Lamla was amazing, really enjoyed her meals. Risotto was the highlight of the night! Thank you for making our evening special!

Filipe Freitas

Chef Lamla came to our rescue when the chef we had initially booked fell ill. At short notice she put together exactly the menu we wanted, with some great additional suggestions. She communicated with me the whole time and was very approachable and I knew all was under control. Chef Lamla and her assistant arrived punctually and in no time at all was cooking up our feast. The food was just fantastic. All the family just raved about her lamb! From the canapes to the surprise cake at the end, the meal was just perfect. All served with such professionalism – and a great sense of humour. Our family gathering was to celebrate 4 birthdays and the renewal of our wedding vows. Chef Lamla made it a night to remember. She was just fabulous!

Colleen Miller

Chef Lamla is an amazing, open and kind chef. She understood our vision and was able to execute it perfectly. Her menu was familiar while also keeping that unique taste. We were very satisfied with the food and our lovely chef. Thanks again for your patience and hospitality :).

Christine Omombo

Chef Lamla was great and the food was amazing!

Julius Röper

Chet Lamla was wonderful

Claire Kershaw

Lamla was great from start to finish. She was very organised and professional. The meal she prepared for me and my family was lovely and I would highly recommend Lamla.

Lizette Greenwell

Chef Lamla is nothing short of amazing. Great food, very friendly and just perfect. Thank you so much for this incredible experience. All of our guests were amazed

Sascha Guenther

An Unforgettable Culinary Experience with Chef Lamla Having had the pleasure of being cooked for by Chef Lamla, I can honestly say it was an experience I will never forget. From the very first meal, it was clear that her talent went far beyond cooking she poured creativity, passion, and precision into every single dish. Each plate that came out of her kitchen was a masterpiece, not just in flavor but in presentation too. The aromas filled the room before the food even reached the table, and the first bite always confirmed what the senses had already promised pure excellence. She managed to take simple ingredients and transform them into something refined, comforting, and deeply satisfying. What impressed me most was her consistency and professionalism. Everything was prepared with the same level of care and attention to detail. She had an incredible ability to adapt dishes to suit different tastes while still keeping her signature flair. Beyond her skill, Lamla’s warm personality made every interaction a joy. She worked with such calmness and confidence that it created a peaceful, inviting atmosphere in the kitchen. You could feel that she genuinely loved what she did, and that energy carried through to everyone at the table. Chef Lamla didn’t just make meals she created experiences that brought people together. Her food told stories, sparked conversation, and left us all eagerly waiting for the next bite. I would highly recommend Chef Lamla to anyone looking for a chef who not only cooks beautifully but also cooks from the heart. Her talent, dedication, and kindness made a lasting impression, and I feel lucky to have enjoyed her food.

slindele moshesh

Lamla is a fantastic Chef. We love her and will book her again. Thanks!

Nathaly Lenz

Lamla was amazing. Really made our night at home special

Henlo Smit

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a private chef experience with Chef Lamla cost?

The average menu price for Chef Lamla is 1034 ZAR per person. Final pricing may vary depending on the menu, number of guests, and event details.

What type of cuisine does Chef Lamla cook?

Chef Lamla offers Local, Seafood/Fish, Fusion, Italian, Mediterranean and Chef's special cuisine for private dining experiences.

Where does Chef Lamla offer private chef services?

Chef Lamla offers private chef services in Cape Town, ZA.

Which occasions can I book Chef Lamla for?

You can book Chef Lamla for Birthday, Family reunion, Bachelor/Bachelorette, Friends gathering, Romantic night, Corporate and Foodie adventure, depending on availability and the event details.

How do I book this private chef experience?

Choose a menu, share your event details, and the Take a Chef team will help confirm the experience with the chef.

I’d love to cook for you—reach out and let’s create something memorable together.

[email protected]
+27 661229771

Cape Town, Western Cape (2 Spurge Ct, Delft, Cape Town, 7100, South Africa)

Chef Lamla Magidlana

I create bespoke dining experiences with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and calm precision—so you can relax and enjoy every moment.

I cook with love, passion, and fresh ingredients that let the flavors speak for themselves

What you get when you book with me

I cook to connect people

I learned from family, school, and real kitchens

I keep it fresh, seasoned, and on time

Chef Lamla’s Menus

Summer Chills Chef's Specials

Winter Warmers

Four Course Menu Chef's Special

Braai Menu Chefs Special

Vegeterian

Stories and testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions