This gastronomic renaissance is starting to make its presence felt in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) space too, with culinary experiences emerging as a pivotal factor in event success. Far beyond keeping delegates fed and watered, food has become a powerful tool for creating memorable experiences, fostering connections, and showcasing destinations.

Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Africa, which will be held at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town in April 2025, says that today’s attendees expect more than standard conference fare—they’re hoping for innovative dining experiences that reflect local culture.

“Food should always be a top priority when designing an event,” says De Jager.  “You don’t need to default to a venue’s standard menu options; most chefs or F&B managers will be open to designing a menu that matches the vision for your function. Have the conversation, because it can make such a difference to the success of your event.”

As an example, De Jager says ILTM Africa 2025 is including a gourmet braai (putting a twist on a local favourite) as well as ‘pop-up’ concepts featuring artisanal drinks and chocolates to celebrate South African chefs, innovation and produce—and take the event experience to all-new levels of luxury.

Food is also a great conversation starter and integral to any networking event. Martin Hiller, Portfolio Director of RX Africa (FAME Week Africa), says the ‘African Women in Entertainment’ breakfast, was a highlight of FAME Week Africa.

“Networking through culinary experiences is an underrated trend,” says Hiller. “It’s an opportunity to create connections in a fun, relaxed, natural setting. These dining experiences serve as catalysts for conversation, relationship-building and memorable moments.”

More than that, Carol Weaving, Managing Director RX Africa says that not only does food & beverage consistently rank among the top three factors influencing attendee satisfaction, but it’s influencing event planners across the globe.

“Destinations known for their culinary heritage often see increased interest from event planners,” says Weaving. “Cities like Singapore, Barcelona, and New Orleans have all successfully leveraged their food culture to attract high-profile events, contributing significantly to their tourism economies. There is no reason why South Africa, which was named the best culinary destination in Africa for 2024 at the World Culinary Awards, or Cape Town—host to several RX Africa events and named the best food city in the world by Condé Nast—can’t do the same.”

For Weaving, emerging culinary trends also make the events space an exciting place to be. “Event planners are increasingly prioritising locally sourced ingredients and zero-waste initiatives,” says Weaving.  “This approach not only appeals to eco-conscious attendees but also supports local economies and reduces carbon footprints.”

Weaving explains that health and wellness is also fast becoming a non-negotiable, with today’s events catering to a diverse range of dietary requirements, from plant-based options to allergen-free meals. This inclusivity ensures all attendees can participate fully in the culinary experience while maintaining their dietary preferences or requirements. The pandemic also played a role here, with people more aware of safety protocols than ever before. “We’re definitely seeing a different approach to food service,” says Weaving. “Innovative set-ups and solutions now enhance rather than compromise the dining experience. Think increased safety standards, specially plated portions, and outdoor dining spaces.”

Looking ahead, expect to see more interactive food stations, chef demonstrations, and hands-on cooking experiences at events. For Weaving, these elements transform passive attendees into active participants, creating more engaging and memorable experiences. “Investing in culinary experiences is worth every penny,” says Weaving. “Events that put food—and culinary experiences—high on the menu typically see higher attendee satisfaction scores and stronger registration numbers for future editions. Moreover, unique culinary experiences often generate social media buzz—and great Insta images— extending the event’s impact beyond its physical attendees!”

Known as The Alba, the boat has been modelled on similar successful concepts in tourist cities across the world including the Bateaux London, Bateaux Parisiens, Bateaux Dubai, The Hornblower and the Melbourne River Cruises. It measures 22 metres in length with a six metre beam and will have a capacity of 72 seated guests or 100 for cocktail functions.

“It has been designed to be stable and smooth in the water, with floor to ceiling glass windows, which will ensure a comfortable dining experience with great views regardless of the weather. Additionally, The Alba is fully compliant with the safety regulations of the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and the captain and crew are seasoned veterans, fully qualified to handle a vessel of this size,” Brian Seaman, CEO of Tourvest Restaurants and Taverns says.

Cruise lengths will range between one and a half and two hours, beginning with four cruises a day. Bookings are now open to experience their bubbly brunch, lunch, sunset, high tea (on Saturdays only) or dinner cruises. However, The Alba will also cater for private functions such as corporate outings, weddings or gala events.

Work up an appetite: rather than channel-flipping in your hotel-room before ambling down to supper, take a dip in the hotel pool or take a run or a brisk walk. Your body will respond by secreting some endorphins, which will improve your mood.

Make it an occasion: take a shower (remember the water restrictions if you’re in Cape Town) and put on a fresh shirt rather than ordering room-service in saggy tracksuit-pants or worse, eating huddled over your laptop. Create your own vibe: the soundtrack in the restaurant might not be to your liking, so having a playlist on headphones that has happy memories can be a real mood-enhancer. It also creates a barrier if you’d prefer strangers to not strike up a conversation, thinking that you’re desperately lonely.

Take your time: when not making leisurely conversation with friends, colleagues or family, you might be tempted to inhale a wrap and turn in for the night. But Weir suggests that you relax and take the time to savour every bit. If you’re on a budget, treat yourself to just one good glass of wine and relish it. Why? Eating “Al Desko” at work, or the working lunches where delegates grab snacks while having Death By PowerPoint, moves us away from the pleasure of immersive eating. Even if you don’t buy into the idea of mindfulness, a conscious effort to enjoy your grub with all your senses can help uncouple you from the cares of the day.

CTRL+ALT-DEL: don’t try to work while eating, but do keep a notepad and pen close at hand. You might find that the meal is a rare moment of freedom from having to listen to people or talk to them. That might just free up some space to solve that vexing problem with a supplier, client or member of your team. Jot it down before you forget it.

Consider exploring: if you have a little time and a sense of adventure, you can explore apps like www.voulezvousdiner.com or www.eatwith.com, where selected hosts offer dinner parties, cooking classes, tastings or food tours. It’s not eating alone, but can be a good way to break out of your social circle and avoid the same FranchiseBurger that you’ve eaten so many times before.

Avoid regret: If you’re trying to eat healthily, you might be tempted to cheat with junk-food while travelling, especially if nobody’s around to judge you. But while deep-fried, highly processed comfort-food might taste good, you’re not doing your health any favours. Crunchy foods – think salads and fresh fruit and veggies, not crisps – stimulate the brain and can help concentration, focus and creativity. And if you’re craving fried chicken instead of crudités and hummus, you may simply need a good night’s sleep: The International Journal of Obesity reports that the more sleep-deprived you are, the more you hanker after high-carb, high-sugar foods, or those with loads of saturated fats.

Track the paperwork: if you’re eating at a hotel or guesthouse, your meal may simply be added to your bill. But if you’re paying separately you can use an app like Receipt Bank to scan and store your receipts so that they don’t fade in your wallet before you can claim them. It’s a good way to keep track of expenses.