On Saturday, 16 August 2025, Johannesburg’s fine dining scene will be redefined with the debut of Naan Sense—a one-night-only, multi-sensory culinary production set within the enchanting grounds of Shepstone Gardens. This is no ordinary dinner. Think molecular gastronomy meets immersive theatre, all rooted in the rich, nostalgic flavours of Durban’s Indian heritage.
Conceived by Ivana Pillay, Naan Sense is a deeply personal tribute to her cultural roots—where memory, cuisine, and innovation collide. “Durban Indian cuisine is pure nostalgia for me,” she shares. “I wanted to reimagine those flavours through the lens of molecular gastronomy and immersive storytelling.”
An Edible Orchestra in Seven Acts
Guests will be treated to a seven-course secret menu, revealed course by course, with two immersive journeys to choose from: The Jungle Garden (vegetarian) and The Beach Front (seafood), each paying homage to Durban’s coastal and botanical landscapes. The menu—Halal-friendly (though not certified)—features signature ingredients such as betel leaf and Tulsi, all reinterpreted with creative flair and dramatic precision.
Each dish is theatrically introduced at The Table by a Gastronomist and accompanied by the stirring sounds of a live qawwali orchestra. One course is experienced blindfolded, in complete silence, inviting guests to engage with flavour on a whole new level.
Led by a team of top-tier executive chefs, the performance unfolds over three immersive hours (R2,750–R3,100, including artisanal beverage pairings). Guests seeking a heightened encounter can add The Silk Hour, a surreal two-hour prelude (R2,000), available only as an extension to The Table experience.
Limited sittings available:
- Silk Hour: 10h00, 14h00, 18h00
- The Table: 12h00, 16h00, 20h00
This is not a restaurant. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Naan Sense transforms dining into a living, breathing art form. Set against the romantic backdrop of 12 Hope Road, Mountain View, the evening promises an unforgettable fusion of culture, cuisine, and imagination.
Dress Code: Vogue India
Bookings essential: www.naansensesa.co.za
WhatsApp: 065 671 7036
Follow: @naansense_sa on Instagram