All You Need To Know About South Africa’s Braai

At Vivat Bacchus, we pride ourselves on bringing a vibrant taste of South Africa to the heart of London. We’re on a mission to give all our guests a true authentic experience whenever they dine with us and, at the forefront of this, of course, is the incredible South African phenomenon of braai! More than just a barbecue or grill, braai represents the South African tradition of people coming together to socialise and relish a whole abundance of incredible food and flavours.

With its origins in South Africa, this timeless cooking method involves grilling meat over an open flame using wood and coal, creating an unrivalled depth of flavour that you just won’t find anywhere else.  It’s so rooted in South African culture, that braai transcends mere cuisine, and instead serves as a reason for people to come together, stories to be shared, and a love for exceptional food to be celebrated around the fire. In fact, braai is such an integral part of their culture that South Africa’s National Heritage Day on 24th September is affectionately known as National Braai Day by many across the nation!

Let us give you a glimpse into South Africa’s braai tradition and share some key elements that are needed to make an incredible feast.

What You Need to Host a Successful Braai

The centrepiece of every memorable braai has to be the meat. While lamb and beef are often the stars of the show, you’ll also find succulent chicken and pork on the table, as well as traditional cuts, like sosaties (meat skewers) or boerewors (a spiced sausage). The latter is made from a combination of beef, pork, and sometimes lamb, and seasoned with a blend of spices including coriander, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. All of this is encased in spiral-shaped coils that impart a smoky flavour with every bite – who could resist?!

But the magic of braai also extends beyond just the meat. It is in the combination of the accompanying marinades, sauces, sides, and spices that the mastery is truly revealed. From the fiery embrace of homemade chutneys to the bold kick of chilli sauces, each element harmonises with the meat to take the feast to new heights.

A South African staple would have to be their chakalaka relish: a vibrant medley of vegetables and spices that ignites the senses with its vivid colours and heat - a real testament to the richness of South African flavours. And of course, the iconic monkey gland sauce; a must-try on our menu at Vivat Bacchus! Not actually made from monkey glands, this sauce is traditionally crafted with typical pantry staples: tomato sauce, chutney, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onions. It makes an irresistible sweet, thick, and tangy sauce that’s dark in colour and has become a steakhouse staple! Lastly, no braai is complete without its faithful companions on the sides. From pap to the refreshing crunch of coleslaw, each dish will perfectly complement the showstopping meat.

However, at the heart of braai culture, you’ll find that its true essence lies not only in the food, but in the social gatherings that accompany it. The act of sharing delicious flavours with cherished friends and family is the true magic of braai, no matter where you are!

Enjoy Braai at Vivat Bacchus

At Vivat Bacchus, you’ll find that our a la carte menu offers an array of braai-cooked meats for you to try. Choose from a diverse selection including succulent sirloin steak, fiery peri peri chicken flattie, karoo herb-crusted lamb fillet, ostrich fillet, Iberico pork chop, or ribeye on the bone. For those who simply can’t decide, our Mixed Braai Boards offer a curated selection guaranteed to delight every palate. Consult with our knowledgeable team members to craft the perfect combination tailored specifically to you and your cravings!

For gatherings of eight or more, our Braai Feasting Menu encapsulates the true spirit of a sociable braai, where family and friends come together to share stories and savour the finest South African foods. Indulge in a feast of starters featuring lekker chicken sosaties, sumptuous mussel potjie, and savoury mushroom frikadelle paired with chakalaka. Mains showcase the farmhouse beef sausage, hearty vegetable potjiekos, bone-in ribeye, fresh line fish, and peri peri chicken flattie, accompanied by an enticing array of sides and sauces. Round off the feast with classic South African desserts including the peppermint crisp tart, malva pudding, and almond and apricot cake, each offering a sweet conclusion to your South African culinary journey.

Even our burgers pay homage to South African tradition, with each patty expertly cooked on the braai to add extra fire and flavour. Don’t miss out on our Burger Monday deal at Vivat Bacchus London Bridge, where you can enjoy two burgers and fries for the price of one, giving you excellent South African quality for less. From the toppings to the cooking style and assembly, our chefs ensure that every element is carefully curated to deliver the most authentic South African experience possible!

Experience braai for yourself at Vivat Bacchus and book a table now.