Sinalo Nana

Howdy it’s Sinalo Nana here. I’m a passionate culinary/pastry enthusiast with a heart for global flavors & cultural storytelling through food. Fun fact, I’m insanely Multilingual I was born in East London, Eastern Cape and raised in the vibrant community of Welkom, Free State. My love for art began at the tender age of 13 while I studied at Aurora Primary School and furthered my studies at Welkom Gimnasium where I officially studied Consumer Studies. At this point I knew the kitchen was my calling. Mrs Rossouw, my Grade 10 consumer studies teacher made this subject fun. After Matric, I honed my craft at Capsicum Culinary Studio, studying cooking, food preparation & pastry arts. During my studies I completed my practicals at Southern Sun OR Tambo. Just before graduation, I landed my first role as a Pastry Commis Chef, kicking off an eight-and-a-half year journey of creating desserts and delighting guests. So satisfying! While seeking to expand my culinary horizons. I joined the Mohonk Mountain House team where I wholeheartedly embraced new culinary horizons & immersed myself in the dynamic food scene from the bustling scenes of New York City to the serene landscapes of New Paltz. I have explored everything from farm-to-table ingredients to innovative techniques. My path has been shaped by a deep curiosity for the world’s cuisines and the stories behind them. Whether I’m crafting a traditional South African Chakalaka for a community event or experimenting with new recipes inspired by my travels, I believe food is a universal language that connects us all. My experiences, from cooking for Mandela Day initiatives to sharing meals with friends in new cities, have taught me the power of food to celebrate culture and build bridges. Through this website, I share my international culinary journey—recipes, stories, and tips to inspire your own kitchen adventures. When I’m not cooking, you might find me exploring new places, like the High Line in NYC, or savoring quiet moments with a good recipe and great company. Join me as we discover the world, one dish at a time!