Health meets taste at Dineo Ranaka's new joint!

RADIO and TV presenter Dineo Ranaka is taking a break from the limelight and moving to the kitchen.

The former Kaya959 host has opened a new restaurant called The Untrained Chef in Wynberg, Joburg.

Dineo (40), who is also a reality TV star and DJ, spoke to Daily Sun about the inspiration behind the eatery.

"In all honesty, I've always dreamt, among many dreams I've had, to have a restaurant, I've just never been vocal about it. A place where people can come to rest their minds and enjoy a moment of peace with amazing cuisine, tranquil music, tranquil mood and wholesome healthy comfort food. I guess everything in good time isn't it," Dineo said.

She partnered with her co-host from Ishushu on Moja Love, The Purple Chef. They run the restaurant together.

"Not only is he my co-host in Ishushu but over the years working together, I've become drawn to his culinary talent, skills and expertise as well as his high work ethic. I have a high work ethic myself and could collaborate with no less. He's trained, and I love this about him. He takes well to my creativity and direction and has his own creative flair too. We work well together," she said.

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Dineo mixed her love of food with her calling as a traditional healer to come up with a healthy menu.

"I'm a culinary enthusiast who happens to be a healer, so a healthy meal offering makes natural sense. I'm also an advocate for holistic well-being and believe gut health is important. I've chosen health because it's necessary, and it's a currency. It's important to ensure our bodies are well-nourished.

"After all, these bodies are all we have for this one life. I feel I'd be doing my calling and humanity an injustice if I just sold whatever is edible with no consideration of how it impacts a person's overall health. Also, health certainly doesn't have to be boring or tasteless. Our healthy comfort meals are tasty and scrumptious! A comforting offering for the health enthusiast. We also offer bespoke meal subscriptions, personalised meal plans that align with one's health and spiritual goals," the media personality said.