Private Chefs & Boutique Catering
Letting every ingredient shine on the plate,
when it’s at its best and bringing harmony to the senses with each bite.
iBali means “the story” in isiXhosa – one of the 11 official languages of South Africa. “The story” that is passed down from one generation to the next. A wisdom of years long gone by, shared with those who are now taking the torch of life and writing their own stories on the pages of life. Stories to be cherished and one day, passed down to those who follow in their footsteps.
Our Philosophy
Taking what the earth and mother nature have so generously provided, we as chefs do our best to let the ingredients tell their own story. A story of farmers working the land, a story of differing climates, a story of soil composition and the ever-changing seasons. A story from farm to table, that encompasses the whole cycle of life, which we have lost touch with in our busy day-to-day lives.
We at iBali want to bridge that gap for you, your loved ones and friends. We want to give you your time back, to enjoy the beauty of adding to your own story and the story of those around you.
Let us add to your “journey” of life and ultimately write a story that is cherished as the years go by and passed on to those who come after us.
“One of the very best things about life - is the way we must regularly stop, whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.”
- Luciano Pavarotti
HERE IS HOW OUR CRAFTING METHOD OF ELEGANCE WORKS
“Extensively traveled and fiercely curious, I love using all that I’ve learned and mastered to create unforgettable experiences and tastes.”
“Food has always been in my heart and a huge passion that I’ve cultivated since I was knee high to a grasshopper. My mother was a superb cook and sparked an interest in food that I decided to make my life’s work from the tender age of 17.
After my extensive training (3,5 years) in South Africa and Italy, I worked in some of South Africa’s top restaurants. I racked up 6 years of solid experience as a chef in professional, fine-dining kitchens – most notably I was the executive sous chef of the Pot Luck Club (the 9th best restaurant in South Africa 2016) where I worked for 3 years.
I then took up a career as a private chef on Superyachts, in May 2017, seeking to explore the world and immerse myself in new cultures.
I’ve worked on private and charter super yachts, ranging from 30m – 116m, as both motor and sail yachts. In 6 years of working professionally for clients with the most discerning palates, I know how to cater to any occasion or taste preference.
After finding my partner in crime, I am now living in Victoria, where we both are looking to build our lives together, in this spectacularly beautiful place!”
Chef Nicholas
After my extensive training (3,5 years) in South Africa and Italy, I worked in some of South Africa’s top restaurants. I racked up 6 years of solid experience as a chef in professional, fine-dining kitchens – most notably I was the executive sous chef of the Pot Luck Club (the 9th best restaurant in South Africa 2016) where I worked for 3 years.
I then took up a career as a private chef on Superyachts, in May 2017, seeking to explore the world and immerse myself in new cultures.
I’ve worked on private and charter super yachts, ranging from 30m – 116m, as both motor and sail yachts. In 6 years of working professionally for clients with the most discerning palates, I know how to cater to any occasion or taste preference.
After finding my partner in crime, I am now living in Victoria, where we both are looking to build our lives together, in this spectacularly beautiful place!”
“Extensively traveled and fiercely curious, I love using all that I’ve learned and mastered to create unforgettable experiences and tastes.”
“Food has always been in my heart and a huge passion that I’ve cultivated since I was knee high to a grasshopper. My mother was a superb cook and sparked an interest in food that I decided to make my life’s work from the tender age of 17.
Customizable Event Menu
Please see the menus below, that have been sampled from previous events, during the seasons of Autumn and Winter.
Choose your own menu, that will showcase the best of what the seasons have to offer. Working together with chef Nicholas, your bespoke menu will be curated, to showcase your favorite ingredients and allow mother nature to show off hers. Whether it’s vegan, vegetarian, Chinese, Argentinian, Korean or classic French - rest assured we can make your culinary dreams a reality. All in the comfort of your own home.
“Nicholas is passionate about what he does and every meal is a masterpiece. He produces excellent food, every time, without fail. He is a world class chef and everything he did, he made seem effortless with a smile on his face.”
Calvin De Mont – Captain of Sailing Yacht Cartouche.
“Nicholas is a very skilled chef, he has a passion for cooking and is always looking to learn new ideas, dishes and techniques. All the feedback I ever received (including my own) was of perfect meals and exceptional service!”
Yanny Kilshaw – Head Chef Motor Yacht Callisto
“We met Nicholas when he was the chef at another in-home private dining event and his food was so delicious, we immediately thought of him when it was time to plan Mom’s 70th birthday. We were so pleased that he was available to cook for the 25 guests invited to a classy afternoon of wine and canapés with pink linens. From our first conversation we could tell Nicholas was friendly, helpful with his suggestions, and very knowledgeable. He made the planning process easier and delivered a fantastic experience to all of our guests. The food was incredible with sides, emulsions, glazes, reductions, and sauces that really enhanced and highlighted the flavours and his presence and conversation during the party was a delight for all. We highly recommend his services and are sorry to see him moving away from Toronto but we wish him the best of luck on his travels and new home in Victoria!.”
William and Sariina Maier
“Nicholas is by far, the very best chef we have ever had, he is simply excellent. He has a way with food that is instinctive, artistic and so very delicious. No matter if it’s breakfast, lunch, appetizers, snacks, dinner, or late-night treats, we’ve always been blown away by his craft. He is so genuine too and such a nice, pleasant person to be around.”
Tonya and Charlie McKinney – Owners of Sailing Yacht Cartouche
“I had the privilege of working with Nicholas Cherry from February – April 2022. He was a joy to work with and his positive can do attitude was very much appreciated. Nick produced excellent meals throughout, but what makes him stand out, is his team work with others on his team. It’s very evident how much regard his team have for him and his leadership. I would not hesitate to work with Nick again and cannot recommend him enough for his next venture, whatever it may be”
Jean Groeneveld – Captain Sailing Yacht Bella Vita
Testimonials
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