Ex-legal eagle raises the bar
Young Soweto-born entrepreneur Mmiso Luphondo has exchanged a career in law for the ownership of one of the popular and trendy bars, Phirinyane Bar at Gemelli restaurant, in Bryanston, Sandton. The restaurant is famous for great pastas and antipastos.
What inspired you to open your own bar?
I’ve always been an inquisitive person when it comes to food. I used to cook a lot when I was home, often motivated by TV programmes I was watching on Food Network. I now wanted an audience to showcase what I can come up with.
What odds did you have to overcome?
Quite honestly, there weren’t many obstacles on the way. I was very privileged to meet chef Alex Khojane, who gave me the opportunity of a lifetime, which is to own my own bar. I’m also blessed people recognised the passion behind it and bought into something I genuinely believe in and equally enjoy executing.
Gemelli is renowned for its Italian cuisine, is your bar stocked with Italian wines to match?
Not so, our bar is a cocktail bar. However, we do have quite a generous wine selection in the Pantry (which is an extension of Gemelli – for private ‘chefs table’ events and wine pairings) as well as the restaurant menu, which also has a few wine options to choose from.
Who is your bar aimed at?
It is aimed at people who are out to experience new flavours, and with curious palates. People who like to de-stress or relax after a hard day at work. The place you start you night off at, in style. A place where you are guaranteed quality interaction.
What is your favourite drink?
The Breach, which is my own creation. It consists of bourbon, bitters, peach syrup and Cointreau.
What is your personal motto?
There is no better time than the present.