CHEFS ON THE SIDE
THE FARMER-CHEF
James Diack, chef and owner at La Stalla deli
Even if you don’t know his name, you’ll be familiar with James Diack’s mini empire of eateries in Johannesburg. Coobs, Il Contadino and La Stalla are just some of his impressive portfolio and were all supplied by Brightside, the farm his family owns in the Magaliesberg. During lockdown, James had to close three of his restaurants temporarily and adapt fast to keep his remaining business alive. He set up a small deli in the space formerly inhabited by his wine bar.
“It was a way to still be able to use and sell not only our farm produce, but also the produce of those who have so loyally supplied us over the past eight years.”
The curated offering includes home-made charcuterie and pâtés, farm cheeses, and organic produce from
