Parmalat celebrated the flavour, creativity, and ingenuity behind South Africa’s beloved street food during the second Parmalat Kota King or Queen competition, held on Saturday, 27 September at Maponya Mall, Soweto. The live cook-off brought together six top local Kota outlets from Soweto and the East Rand, nominated via radio by Mzansi.
After three thrilling rounds, Julia Hobyane, owner of Dinah’s Kitchen, was crowned the 2025 Parmalat Kota Queen. The judges were impressed with her creativity and the way she elevated the traditional Kota using Parmalat cheese slices. Her dish stood out not only for its taste, but also for how it celebrated local culture while showcasing the versatility of Parmalat cheese.
Dinah’s Kitchen won the grand cash prize of R20,000. Mthokozisi Ngcobo of Le Phonic came in second, winning R5,000, and the third-place runner up was Eunice Moshane of Kasi Flavour. Each of the shortlisted establishments was awarded R2,000, and all six finalists received a branding make-over for their Kota outlet to the value of R50,000 – including a fresh coat of paint, new Parmalat signage, printed menus, and an upgraded seating area for customers complete with benches and umbrellas.
In the first round, finalists created traditional Kota dishes highlighting sauces and spices. The second round challenged them to incorporate a mystery ingredient, merging township tradition with Michelin-style flair. The final round, dubbed uGabadiya!, pushed the contestants to unleash their creativity, showcasing their personal, signature dishes and inventive presentations. The judges included Lactalis SA representatives, 2024 Parmalat Kota Queen winner, Silindile Lwandle Duma of Lwandle Fast Food, musician, Dali Danger, and social media sensation Robot Boii, who entertained the crowd during the competition. They scored entries across five key criteria: taste and flavour, creativity, cheese integration, presentation, and uniqueness of cooking method. Parmalat, South Africa’s number one cheese slice played a starring role in each round, proving that Everything Needs Parmalat Cheese, whether in a classic fried Kota or an inventive fusion creation.
The competition is part of Parmalat’s broader initiative to develop communities by supporting small businesses and recognising the entrepreneurs behind these popular Kota outlets. And what better way for a business in the food industry to give back than to celebrate local flavour and culinary culture! By championing creativity, authenticity, and the versatility of cheese, the brand seeks to inspire consumers and small business owners alike.
Monè Gerryts, Marketing Manager for Parmalat Cheese at Lactalis South Africa, commented: “At Parmalat, we’re committed to partnering with South Africans to build a better tomorrow. As the number one cheese slice in South Africa, and a local favourite, the Parmalat Kota King or Queen competition aims to celebrate and support the small business owners who bring communities together through food, uplifting local talent and flavour, one Kota and Parmalat cheese slice at a time. Furthermore, it was incredible to see how our cheese slices brought out the creativity and passion in every Kota that was prepared, proving once again that everything needs Parmalat cheese!”
With plans to make the competition bigger and better every year, the Parmalat Kota King or Queen competition combines community celebration with support for entrepreneurs, and spotlighting the talent, innovation, and passion that go into making South Africa’s favourite comfort food. The winner now enjoys a boost in visibility, mentorship opportunities, and a prize pack that will help grow their business and inspire other aspiring township food entrepreneurs.
Nicola Honey
Soweto Sunrise News
