KwaZulu-Natal’s best bunny chow challenge: Top 10 finalists announced
Shabnum Ramjathan presents the offering from Ramjathans Fast Foods during Thursday's round of judging in the 2025 Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge. This year’s Top 10 finalists have been named and they must now prepare themselves for the grand finale which happens on November 16, at Durban's Blue Lagoon
Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers.
The much-anticipated search for KwaZulu-Natal’s best Bunny Chow is set for a tasty finale with the announcement of this year’s Top 10 finalists in the annual Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge on Thursday.
Celebrated for its rich heritage and tantalising flavours, the bunny chow has become an emblem of Durban's culinary identity.
This competition has become an institution locally and serves as a tribute to local innovators who have kept the spirit and flavour of the event alive.
Marlene Moodley from BP Chatsworth, Sunitha Singh from Ilala Engen Care 365, Buyi Sangweni from Get Lost, Shabnum Ramjathan of Ramjathans Fast Foods, Shivan Singh PnP Express Waterloo,Vipul Patel representing BP Arena Park, Glen Pillay from Mias, Fahim Khan from Zahraa's Unique foods, and Judy Moodley of Victory Lounge Umhlanga at this year's e Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge
Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspapers
Sponsored by CCBSA, the Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge has continued to garner immense community support over the years, and has been established as a well-known event on the province’s culinary calendar.
The initiative not only recognises the cooking skills of local entrepreneurs but also promotes the small businesses that contribute uniquely to KwaZulu-Natal’s diverse food culture.
This year, the finalists will attempt to have a bite at the competition's R100,000 worth of prizes for the top finishers.
Digging in is Fahim Khan from Zahraa's Unique Foods during the judging at the Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) Bunny Chow Barometer Challenge
Image: Tumi Pakkies/ Independent Newspaper
Richard Willington, the regional sales manager at CCBSA in KZN, emphasised the importance of this competition in the region’s gastronomy.
“This competition reflects the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, which revolves around passion, community, and creativity,” he stated.
“Through initiatives like this, we support local food outlets and create opportunities that go beyond business.
Partnering with customers for growth is about walking alongside our partners, celebrating their success, and ensuring we all meet consumer needs and thrive together,” he said.
The ten finalists selected for their exceptional bunny chow offerings include:* Engen Ilala Ridge Convenience Centre* Pick n Pay Express Chatsworth* Victory Lounge Umhlanga* Mias Restaurant* Pick n Pay Express Arena Park* Ramjathans Fast Foods* Pick n Pay Express Waterloo* New Victory Foods Aberdare Phoenix
The organisers are anticipating a bumper finale when the competition climaxes on November 16 at Durban's Blue Lagoon.
DAILY NEWS