Chef Emma Van Staden

Chef At Home in Durban North

With over a decade of diverse culinary experience, I specialize in delivering bespoke, fine dining experiences tailored to each client's tastes and occasions. From intimate dinners to high-profile events, I bring creativity, precision, and passion to the plate. My background spans private residencies, diplomatic households, and upscale restaurants, where I’ve mastered everything from elegant plating to specialized dietary menus. Every dish I create is rooted in quality ingredients, elevated technique, and a deep appreciation for the art of hospitality.

For me, cooking is...

For me, cooking is a form of storytelling—a way to connect, comfort, and celebrate through flavor and creativity. It’s where intuition meets technique

I learned to cook at...

Capsicum-trained chef crafting elegant, personalized dishes with passion—blending skill, creativity, and finesse for unforgettable dining experiences.

A cooking secret...

My secret in the kitchen is cooking with heart—infusing every dish with passion, balance, and creativity to turn simple ingredients into extraordinary