Lekgotla: 'Let's meet'

Last year I celebrated my 24th birthday by graciously treating myself to an exciting night on the town with my partner. We've been together for ten years, but can you believe, we've never spent our birthdays alone. I've always tried to organise dinner for two on my bday, but when you're part of a very loving and close family, it's hard to say no to big, family meals together on your special day.

Alas as luck would have it, I did most of my birthday celebrations beforehand, as I jetted off to have a nice, relaxing holiday in the Garden Route as part of the celebrations.

Anyway we ended up dining at Lekgotla at the Nelson Mandela Square. I have always been drawn to restaurants that serve up scrumptious, authentic cuisine, and it is my favour towards North, East, South and West African food that led to a booking at this exquisite restaurant. For more images of the nights flagrant affair, check my pics out on Flickr.

First off, I have to say the whole dining experience was fantastic and I would highly recommend it to those seeking a little adventure into culinary delight. I was overwhelmed by the variety on the menu and was definitely spoilt for choice from starters straight up to dessert.

I hadn't been in the mood for alcohol in a long while, but the 15 year old Glenfiddich appertif that I had before supper, warmed me up and was a great accompaniment to my meal. It's hard for me to drink wines these days because of the high sugar content so whiskies are nice once in a while to get the blood flowing.

If you are into Moroccan food then you must try the 'Baba Ganoush'. It's a dipping sauce which consists of smoked aubergine, fresh lemon juice and creme fraiche. Very delicious and extremely good with unleavened bread.

What makes you think I was in my element last night?

Tagines are another favourite in Moroccan dish and is quite a nice hearty meal for a cold winter's evening.

Well I had an awesome birthday and even though it's not a landmark one, I had to seize the moment. I have so many great things that I wanted to celebrate this year and I'm glad I got to celebrate them with the people I love and cherish the most. Afterall what is a person without family and friends?