Lay’s Kettle Cooked Launch Event fuses Art, Music, and Culinary Excellence

The much-anticipated launch of Lay’s all-new Kettle Cooked range unfolded in a captivating evening that seamlessly fused art, music, and culinary innovation. Hosted at the vibrant Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank, Johannesburg, the event created an exclusive and immersive experience for guests, elevating Lay’s Kettle Cooked from a premium snack to a cultural moment.

The evening kicked off with a dynamic live performance by award-winning musician Davina Gordon Goliath, setting a lively tone with soulful rhythms that echoed throughout the venue. Guests were then expertly guided through the night by the charismatic house host, Zola Ayabulela Mhlongo, whose infectious energy and presence kept everyone guessing about “The Lay’s Secret,” building anticipation and intrigue around the product reveal.

Culinary excellence took centre stage as renowned Chef Wandile Mabaso delighted guests with a bespoke four-course menu inspired by each unique flavour of the Lay’s Kettle Cooked range. His innovative dishes beautifully highlighted the premium qualities of the crisps, providing a multi-sensory exploration of the new product.

The three distinct flavours, Seared Rib Eye & Mushroom, Sea Salt & Black Pepper, and White Cheddar & Cranberry were seamlessly woven into a menu that showcased how easily the crisps can be moulded into day-to-day food pairings and indulgent moments.

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Experience Fine Dining at Room 32 at the Park Hyatt Johannesburg

In a city where culinary ambition is on the rise, Park Hyatt Johannesburg has quietly – and confidently – opened the doors to Room 32, a refined dining destination that blends fire-cooked cuisine, South Africa’s proudly local craft beverages and rich architectural heritage into one immersive experience.

I had the distinct pleasure of attending the exclusive opening of Room 32, an intimate affair curated for a select group of influencers, content creators, and members of the press. The afternoon was a culinary indulgence, featuring an exquisite tasting of starters, mains, and desserts from the restaurant’s full menu. Each dish was a masterful expression of flavour and finesse – an elegant preview of the gastronomic excellence that Room 32 promises to deliver.


Cushioned inside the newly restored Sir Herbert Baker landmark in Rosebank, Room 32 is the only
communal space in what is now the world’s most intimate Park Hyatt – a 31-room sanctuary of
understated luxury. The restaurant is not just a nod to fine dining; it’s a statement of intent.


Room 32 is where the story of food begins and lingers long after the last bite. The kitchen speaks through
the freshest offerings. Every dish is crafted with respect and curiosity; every flavour layered with
intention. Dining at Room 32 is more than a meal; it’s a shared moment, where culinary art and heartfelt
hospitality meet.


“Room 32 was born from a desire to create a space that feels both grounded and elevated,” says Mitch
Gemmell, General Manager at Park Hyatt Johannesburg. “In a hotel defined by privacy and discretion,
this is our invitation to indulge in the city’s finest and classiest cuisine.”

Here’s a short video of the opening:

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Guilt-Free Sparkling Drinks: Taste Italy’s Sanpellegrino Zero

Experience the authentic taste of Italy with Sanpellegrino Zero, the new guilt-free sparkling drink range that captures the essence of the Italian ‘dolce vita’ now with zero grams added sugar and irresistibly refreshing flavour. I got this press drop, and it was love at first sip! Being a fan of Sanpellegrino water and the usual drinks, I was happy to find out that they now have a zero sugar version!

Crafted with the juice of sun-ripened Italian fruits and only 15 to 20 calories per can, these beverages offer a sparkling sensation perfect for today’s health-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise on taste. This is more than just a drink, it’s a light, sparkling ritual inspired by over 90 years of Italian tradition and passion for quality.

Discover the Zero range in four flavours:

  • Lemonade: Made with juice from sun-kissed Italian lemons, this refreshingly light sparkling drink delivers a tangy citrus with just 15 calories per can. Perfect when chilled at 6-8°C, it’s your go-to for a crisp, guilt-free refreshment.
  • Peach & Clementine: This delicate blend of sun-ripened Italian peaches and clementines offers a fragrant, lightly sparkling experience with only 20 calories per can. Ideal for alfresco moments with friends or a refreshing break at work.
  • Blood Orange: Brighten your day with the bold, complex flavours of Italian blood oranges. With 20 calories per can, this sparkling drink delivers an intense citrus aroma and a sophisticated taste that embodies the Italian ‘dolce vita’.
  • Pomegranate & Orange: A vibrant fusion of tangy pomegranates and sweet Mediterranean oranges, this sparkling drink offers a fruity, refreshing time-out with 20 calories per can.

All the Zero range drinks come in 100% recyclable aluminium cans, underscoring the brand’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Each can deliver a sparkling, refreshing experience that’s light on calories but full of Italian passion and quality.

The Zero range is now available at Woolworths stores near you and online at Italian Deli Online. Discover the lighter side of indulgence and find your new favourite flavour today.

All the taste. Zero grams added sugar. All the sparkle.

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Heineken® 0.0 Shines at F1® THE MOVIE Premiere

The South African premiere of F1® THE MOVIE was more than just an opulent ‘green’ carpet meets racetrack moment. With Heineken® 0.0 at the heart of it all, the night brought together friends, fans, and familiar faces to show that you don’t need alcohol to enjoy the moment — just good company, great storytelling, and a drink that keeps you in the driver’s seat.

From track to theatre, Heineken® 0.0 took centre stage at the IMAX Mall of Africa, blending seamlessly into the thrill of Formula 1® and the sophistication of film — all while reinforcing a modern, inclusive message: there are zero reasons needed to choose moderation.

Hosted by celebrity F1 fan and radio host, Anele Mdoda, the theatre was packed with South African movers and shakers, including the likes of Girlie Lukhele, Khuli Chana, Bonko and Lesego khoza, Zakes Bantwini, Karabo Didi and so many more.

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Tucci in Italy: Exploring Food and Culture

This May, National Geographic invites audiences to take a mouthwatering adventure with acclaimed Academy Award® Nominee, Emmy®– and Golden Globe®-winning actor Stanley Tucci, as he travels across Italy in TUCCI IN ITALY.

From Tucci’s SALT Productions, alongside BBC Studios’ Specialist Factual Productions, the five-part series follows Tucci on a visually stunning and deeply personal exploration of the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the complex connections with its food that have shaped each region’s distinct culture and, of course, their iconic pasta. TUCCI IN ITALY premieres Wednesdays at 20:30 (CAT) from 21 May 2025 on National Geographic (DStv 181, Startimes 220) and will also be available to stream on Disney+ in South Africa.

 

Watch the trailer below:

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