The smell of amagwinya frying in oil is one of those things that instantly says South Africa. It’s the kind of street food aroma that drifts through taxi ranks, school gates and neighbourhood corners, promising something simple, warm and deeply familiar.

On the menu the focus is exactly where it should be: golden amagwinya, crisp outside and soft inside. Some call them vetkoek, others fat cakes, but across the country they mean the same thing, it’s proper comfort food that has fed generations. It’s uncomplicated, filling and proudly local.

They are served alongside crumbed chicken that delivers the sort of crunchy, satisfying bite that works just as well as a quick snack as it does for a full meal. Together the combination feels unmistakably South African: hearty, affordable and made for people who enjoy food that doesn’t pretend to be anything other than good.

What stands out is the celebration of everyday South African flavours. This is the food people grew up with, the sort of thing that brings back memories of street vendors, school breaks and weekend treats.

Local really is lekker, especially when it arrives hot, golden and ready to eat.