Grub & Vine Group Announces Key Chef Appointments To Elevate Dining And Event Experiences

The Grub & Vine Group has announced the appointment of two dynamic new talents to its leadership team: Chef Darren Allsopp joins as Chef de Cuisine of the Group, while Chef Ukhonaye Mconi takes the reins as Head Chef at the Chef’s Studio and Events Manager for the Group.

These appointments mark an exciting new chapter for the Group, known for its refined yet relaxed approach to bistro-style dining, award-winning wine lists and interactive culinary experiences across its flagship establishments – Grub & Vine, Grub & Vine Norval, Culture Wine Bar, The Blue Room and The Chef’s Studio.

“In order to continue growing, strengthen our team, and keep our offering fresh, we sought out young and exciting South African talent – individuals who are hungry, inspired and aligned with our ethos of great food and wine, says Chef Patron and founder, Matt Manning.

“Darren has a fervent passion for sourcing local ingredients and applying a mix of modern and traditional techniques to create distinctive dishes. He also understands the important marriage between food and wine, which is integral to our offering, and holds a deep respect for honest cooking. Darren will continue to drive our philosophy of relaxed, refined fare but with his unique flair.”

As Chef de Cuisine, Allsopp will oversee the execution of all menus across the Grub & Vine Group. His culinary journey began in the dish pit and has since taken him through the ranks to some of Cape Town’s most respected kitchens. With a deep appreciation for produce-led cooking, particularly rooted in Italian and French traditions, Allsopp’s food style blends modern finesse with a reverence for simplicity and source.

Says Allsopp: “Food, for me, begins with great ingredients and the stories behind them. It’s about capturing a sense of place, honouring the work of our local producers, and creating memorable dining experiences that are both elegant yet grounded.”

Supporting this vision of elevated, experiential dining, Manning welcomes back Chef Ukhonaye Mconi, who worked under Manning in his private cheffing days and has now taken the reins as Head Chef of the Chef’s Studio – the Group’s interactive cooking and events space.

A charismatic chef with strong roots in the Eastern Cape and an impressive background both in the kitchen and the classroom, Mconi’s career includes stints at La Mouette, the prestigious Admirals Cove Country Club in Florida, and Capsicum Culinary Studio, where he later served as a lecturer and culinary project planner. A familiar face to food lovers through his years on SABC 3’s Afternoon Express, Mconi brings a dynamic and personable energy to his new role.

Remarks Manning: “The Chef’s Studio was born from my love of hosting intimate and interactive cooking events, which is where my journey began as a private chef. So it was important to me to choose someone who shares the same passion for people and interactive dining. Ukhonaye is not only an accomplished chef but a true entertainer and educator in the kitchen. I’m thrilled to have him with us.”

With these key appointments, Manning will shift his focus towards refining and strengthening the Group’s value proposition.

“We’ve grown organically and ambitiously over the past few years. Having Darren and Ukhonaye on board will allow me to step into the next phase of creative and strategic development for the Group.”