For many of our clients, the journey to the UK isn’t about leaving South Africa behind; it’s about expanding their world while keeping their roots firmly planted. Whether you’ve just reinstated your citizenship or are here on an Ancestry Visa, the ‘homesick blues’ are usually cured by three things: biltong, a solid braai, and the right company.
Here’s a food focussed look at the heart of the ‘Saffa’ community in the London.
The ‘Biltong Belt’
The Biltong Belt refers to a specific stretch of South West London (SW) – primarily encompassing Putney, Southfields, Earlsfield, Wimbledon, and Raynes Park. Historically, this area became the landing pad for thousands of South Africans moving to the UK, leading to a massive concentration of ‘Saffa’ culture.
In the 90s and early 2000s, SW offered the perfect mix of green spaces (reminding expats of home), relatively affordable Victorian terraces (at the time), and easy access to Waterloo. As the community grew, the shops followed. It’s now the only place in the UK where you can walk five minutes in any direction and find a high-quality Droëwors or a Peppermint Crisp! Visit the local pubs and restaurants, and you’re almost certain to bump into compatriots watching the game or just enjoying time with their expat community.
‘Commuter Biltong’ and Saffa Shops
Because so many South Africans live in the ‘Biltong Belt’ but work in the City, a unique ‘commuter biltong’ culture emerged. This led to kiosks opening directly on station platforms (like Waterloo, Victoria, and London Bridge), effectively creating a ‘Biltong Bridge’ from the SW suburbs into the heart of London. Beyond the kiosks. shops have emerged offering a range of South African goods as well as online stores, and several specialist suppliers of a range of South African inspired products. We’ll touch on a few here:
London Bridge, Victoria, Paddington
The sleek ‘commuter’s choice’. High-end kiosks in major stations.
Roehampton & Lower Kingswood
The award-winners. They take their grass-fed beef very seriously.
Earlsfield
A true family-run gem where Tara herself often greets you. It’s a community hub as much as a shop.
One New Change, Streatham Village, Finsbury Park
Sustainable, traditional recipes at a fair price.
Twickenham, Woking, markets, and pop-ups
The specialists with a great range and options. Choose between wet, medium, or dry depending on your preference.
And Beyond
Beyond the belt, you can enjoy a variety of South African culinary experiences. London’s South African restaurants range from wine-centric steakhouse dining to modern bistro styles. Vivat Bacchus and High Timber focus on South African wines and premium meats like Karoo lamb and ostrich. These venues offer a formal setting, often featuring extensive cellars and specialised cheese rooms. Other spots provide contemporary or casual options. Kudu serves updated versions of traditional dishes in a bistro environment, while Ocean Basket, a chain familiar to most Saffas, specialises in family-style seafood platters.
The Heart of the Saffa Community
So, if you’re a little home sick or simply keen to see find out what your countrymen have come up with, look no further. The heart of the Saffa community is waiting for you.
Featured Image: Photos by Jeff Siepman, Mick Latter, and Malte Luk
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