Discover Our Story
At The Melting Pot, we believe that food is a journey that connects us to cultures and experiences from around the globe. Founded by Chef John van Zyl, our culinary adventure began as a humble 12-seater pop-up in the city centre, later evolving into a restaurant above the Gin Bar in Wale Street, and then to a laid-back country experience on Oak Valley Estate. Today, The Melting Pot is a vibrant street food stall at the Time Out Market in V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.
Our menu, inspired by the bold flavours and diversity of global street food, celebrates culinary exploration with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Our dedication to culinary excellence has earned us a star at the annual Eat Out Awards in both 2022 and 2023.
Beyond our food stall, we offer a range of unique services, including private cheffing, event catering, and exclusive chef’s table dinners, allowing you to savour our creations in various settings. Additionally, we provide consulting services for restaurateurs and culinary entrepreneurs, helping them elevate their culinary visions.
Meet The Chef
Chef John van Zyl is a seasoned culinary professional with a passion for global cuisine. He trained at the prestigious Institute of Culinary Arts in Stellenbosch, South Africa, where he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for diverse culinary traditions.
John began his career working alongside renowned Chef Liam Tomlin at Chefs Warehouse, where he was the first chef in the country to join his team. Over six years, he played a pivotal role in opening both Chefs Warehouse Bree Street and Thali as head chef, gaining invaluable experience in menu development and kitchen operations.
With a love for travel and street food, John founded The Melting Pot in 2019, channeling his expertise into creating a menu that celebrates bold flavors and global influences.
