Food Photography for Durban Spice in Oxfordshire

Want chef-quality, home-cooked food without the hassle of shopping or washing up? Tired of the same high street restaurant chains? Want a taste of something a little more exotic? Durban Spice could be right up your street… literally.

December 2018 update: one of the images I captured for Durban Spice has been awarded a Highly Commended Rosette by the Master Photographers Association (MPA).

MPA Chairman Ray Lowe said, “An exceptionally good food picture for a restaurant or [cook] book. Every element of this picture works… Everything in this picture tells me another part of the overall story which is […] cuisine of quality. Well done.”

Durban Spice offers authentic South African food, served in the stunning conservatory of chef Shabir Ally’s home. He commissioned some professional food photography to whet locals’ appetites and show potential diners what to expect. These are some of my favourites from our mouth-watering shoot:

Nestled into a row of terraced houses in the quaint village of Wheatley, Shabir’s home looks like any other from the outside. As soon as you step in, however, the aromas hit you: some spices you recognise (cloves, star anise, cinnamon) while others are enticingly unfamiliar. For it’s in the large kitchen set to the back of the house where Shabir crafts his menus: curries, samosas, roti, chutneys, pickles and puddings.

The large conservatory has been transformed into an upscale dining room. Contemporary tables are laid with glassware, fresh flowers and pressed linen napkins. The space can seat up to 16, and is arranged to accommodate either a combination of smaller tables or one big, central one for private family dinners and office parties.

The venture is part of the Secret Supper movement: an opportunity for foodies to enjoy fine dining experiences in the relaxed surroundings of the chef’s home.

Shabir says, “We will be running secret supper evenings on Friday and Saturday nights, with private events during the week, too. We’re also planning themed evenings as well as pop-up takeaway nights, too.”

The secret suppers will be five-course meals based on the flavours of Shabir’s birthplace, Durban, a coastal city in eastern South Africa. The menu is a surprise on the night, although guests can notify Shabir in advance of any dietary requirements. The evening’s experience includes   tea or coffee and homemade petit fours to finish.

Shabir says, “Our aim is to share our passion for good, home-cooked food and showcase the flavours and heritage of authentic, South African-inspired meals. Our diners will get a completely unique food experience, accompanied by the warm hospitality that’s characteristic of my culture. We just want to welcome people and see them relax and enjoy themselves.”

Shabir says, “Durban curry is like no other; it’s fragrant, rich and delicious with a well-balanced kick of heat. Aside from Indian influences, traditional South African food also has its roots in Dutch, Malay and African heritage, so we’ll also be serving classics like Potjiekos, Bobotie, Samp and Beans, Malva Pudding, Indian sweets and the famous Milk Tart!”

Shabir has a degree in Hospitality Management, combined with over 22 years in the hospitality and catering industry. He worked at a number of high end venues in the area, including Blenheim Palace and The Ashmolean Museum, before turning his attention to launching Durban Spice.

“My passion,” he says, “is cooking the delights that my country of birth has to offer.”

For more information about Durban Spice, visit the website at www.durbanspice.co.uk.

After our shoot, Shabir said:

“Sarah recently came to take photos of some items off our new Durban Spice secret supper menu and she did an amazing job. Sarah was so helpful from the start and showed so much interest in our new business and project. She was engaged, patient and an absolute professional. The pictures look amazing and everyone who has seen them has said the same. We’d highly recommend her! Thanks again.”

If you’re looking for food or product photography to promote your business or service, you can email me via [email protected], call me on 07832 196657 or pop your details in this contact form:

Sarah Plater LMPA is a qualified, professional photographer based in Bicester, Oxfordshire.