While the closure of the Splat signifies the end of a cherished chapter in Durban's gastronomic scene, many patrons are hopeful that Neha Valjee's culinary journey is far from over.
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In a touching farewell, Neha Valjee, the visionary behind the innovative restaurant Splat, announced its closure after a remarkable journey that began on August 1, 2023.
Nestled in the vibrant community of Glen Ashley in Durban North, Splat has not only been a culinary destination but also a cherished community hub where creativity and connection thrive.
Valjee's fusion of flavours, inspired by her heritage and commitment to locally sourced ingredients, has enthralled food lovers throughout Durban.
As she reflects on her journey, Valjee describes running Splat as a transformative experience - one marked by hard work, dedication, and most importantly, the community it fostered.
“We opened the doors to Splat, and our lives were forever changed,” Valjee expressed in a heartfelt social media post.
“This journey has taught us life lessons that extend far beyond the confines of our restaurant.”
Throughout its operation, Splat became synonymous with significant life milestones for many of its patrons - birthdays, anniversaries, and even proposals were celebrated at its tables.
To Valjee, the connections made with customers were one of the most fulfilling aspects of her culinary adventure. "Our customers have become like family to us, and we’re grateful for the trust they’ve placed in us," she shared, highlighting the deep bonds formed over shared meals and memories.
Equally vital to Splat's success was the team Valjee cultivated, a group she refers to as the backbone of the establishment. "We’ve laughed together, cried together, and worked tirelessly to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere," she noted.
Through collaboration, empathy, and understanding, the team demonstrated that even in tough times, kindness and humour could light the way.
As the restaurant closed its doors on Tuesday, March 18, the memories crafted within its walls remained vivid in Valjee’s mind. From the chaotic energy during the restaurant's early days to the quiet reflections of later months, she recalls each moment with gratitude.
The first glowing reviews, the joy of hosting events, and the customers who remarked that Splat felt like home will forever resonate with her.
In her closing message, Valjee stated, “Running a restaurant is not just about serving food; it’s about creating a sense of community, connection, and belonging.”
This commitment to fostering a sense of belonging is something she intends to carry into her future endeavours, although the specifics remain undisclosed.
In a recent conversation with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Valjee revealed the early motivations that sparked Splat’s inception. After enrolling at the South African Hospitality Institute in July 2021 and obtaining her chef certification a year later, she founded her catering business, The Hunnie Pot.
This venture allowed her to establish a personal connection with the culinary community and her customers. “This endeavour enabled me to build a loyal customer base, ultimately motivating me to explore the idea of owning a restaurant,” she recounted.
The decision to open Splat was a collective family effort, driven by a desire to present a diverse culinary offering to meet the varied tastes of Durban's food enthusiasts.
Valjee's menu catered to vegans, vegetarians, halaal followers, and meat lovers alike, epitomising her commitment to inclusivity. “Curating a bespoke menu was a gratifying experience,” she shared.
While the closure of the restaurant signifies the end of a cherished chapter in Durban's gastronomic scene, many patrons are hopeful that Valjee's culinary journey is far from over, eager to see where her talents will take her next.
