Thabo’s Tasty Tales and Kitchen Wisdom
If you’ve ever attended an event at Focus Rooms, you’ve likely tasted the artistry of our Head Chef, Thabo Monareng, and his talented team. With over 18 years of culinary experience, Chef Thabo brings a blend of passion, precision, and creativity to every dish. His journey is rich with dedication to the craft, and his approach to food elevates the Focus Rooms catering experience to something truly unique.
In January 2024, we made a significant shift by bringing our kitchen operations in-house, allowing Chef Thabo full control over the quality and presentation of every meal.
It’s through Chef Thabo’s visionary leadership that the entire culinary team comes together to create magic. His guidance and high standards inspire each team member to put forth their best, crafting dishes that delight and surprise. From his unique philosophy to the creativity he encourages, Chef Thabo ensures that every meal served at Focus Rooms is not just food, but an unforgettable part of your event experience.
A Culinary Journey Sparked by Family
For Chef Thabo, the love of cooking began at home. Inspired by his father, who would bring home delicious meals and cook for the family on special occasions, Thabo discovered the joy of food early on. “When I was young, I told myself that when I grow up, I want to do what my dad used to do,” he says. Eighteen years later, he’s now leading the kitchen at Focus Rooms, creating memorable dining experiences for countless guests.
The Power of Teamwork in the Kitchen
Chef Thabo is quick to credit his team for the quality and consistency of Focus Rooms’ catering. With a “full kitchen staff” that he describes as his “flavour-packed dream team,” each member brings unique skills to the table. From a grill master and a “protein king” to a pastry artist crafting beautiful dessert, Thabo’s team ensures a diverse and dynamic menu for every event. “Everyone focuses on their strengths,” he explains, “and we make sure every dish is crafted with care.” This collaboration enables them to deliver high-quality, creative dishes—whether serving a small gathering or a 500-guest summit.
Crafting Customised Menus with Care
each menu to clients’ specific needs. Chef Thabo and his team work closely with event organisers, discussing preferences, dietary requirements, and themes to create menus that truly resonate. “We had an event that needed four food stalls from different countries,” he recalls. “We executed it so well that the client personally came to thank our team.”
This dedication to customisation is all part of Focus Rooms’ approach to making every event special. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, or a gala evening, Chef Thabo’s team is ready to go above and beyond.
Preparing for Large Events: Fun Meets Precision
When it comes to large-scale events, Chef Thabo strikes the perfect balance between fun and meticulous planning. “Preparing food for large events is both fun and challenging,” he admits. The key to success? Teamwork and a fully staffed kitchen that can divide tasks efficiently. From prepping ingredients to plating, every step is managed with precision, ensuring that dishes are delivered on time and to the highest standard.
Chef Thabo fondly remembers a summit where his team served over 500 guests, an experience that showcased their exceptional teamwork. “The feedback we got on the food was amazing,” he says, a testament to the dedication and care that goes into every dish.
Consistency and Quality, Every Time
At Focus Rooms, consistency isn’t just a goal—it’s a promise. Chef Thabo and his team follow detailed recipes, use checklists, and conduct regular taste tests to maintain high standards, even under pressure. “We do prep work ahead of time, so everything is ready when we start cooking,” he explains. This organised approach ensures that every guest, no matter the size of the event, enjoys dishes that meet Focus Rooms’ top-notch standards.
Looking Ahead: Experimentation and Client-Centric Innovation
As trends evolve in the culinary world, Chef Thabo and his team are excited to continue innovating. They plan to experiment with new recipes, techniques, and themes to keep things fresh. Feedback from clients remains a crucial part of their approach, allowing the team to refine their offerings and adapt to guests’ tastes. “Our team will continue to experiment with new recipes and techniques, ensuring we meet client needs and expectations,” he says.
With Chef Thabo at the helm, Focus Rooms isn’t just a venue—it’s a place where flavours come to life, and every meal tells a story. Whether you’re planning a small event or a large celebration, you can count on Chef Thabo’s team to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience, filled with passion, teamwork, and a touch of creative magic.
Book your next function at Focus Rooms. Contact our team today!
