"TikTok star highlights political power of South Africa's unsung culinary treasures"

Solly’s Corner, a popular eatery in downtown Johannesburg, was busy. Pieces of hake and crisp fries crackled in the fryer, green chillies were chopped, and generous amounts of homemade sauce were spread onto filled sandwiches.

Broadcaster and food enthusiast Nick Hamman stepped behind the counter, where Yoonas and Mohammed Akhalwaya, the father-son team running the family establishment in Fordsburg—a neighborhood with rich south Asian and Middle Eastern heritage—welcomed him warmly.

With over 200,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok, Hamman has spent the last two years exploring local food spots, showcasing the variety of dishes across South Africa and connecting people through shared culinary experiences.

His videos begin with an upbeat greeting: "I’m Nick Hamman!" He then introduces his focus for the day, whether it's finding the top burgers, boerewors, or breyani. From hearty mala mogodu stew to magwinya doughnuts paired with liver, there's little Hamman won’t enthusiastically try.

"Food became a thread tying together everything I care about—culture, family, history, tradition," said the 34-year-old, who also hosts a morning show on 5FM. "Food holds meaning beyond taste. It’s tied to memory, nostalgia, and history, telling our country’s story in a unique way."

Suggestions from his audience guide his visits. "When a place gets recommended repeatedly, it’s usually worth checking out," he explained.

The businesses Hamman features share certain qualities: pride in their food and heritage, often with experiences of overcoming challenges. Solly’s Corner fits this perfectly—an iconic yet understated establishment.

Opened in 1956 by Yoonas’s mother, Khadija, the restaurant endured forced relocation attempts under apartheid and later survived the pandemic and a fire in 2021. "We’ve faced tough times, but we’re grateful," said Yoonas. "Feeding people is a blessing," Mohammed added.

Since October 2023, Hamman’s posts on Solly’s Corner have amassed over 1.7 million views across social media. The Akhalwayas, grateful for the increased business, put up a large photo of Hamman on their wall and named a burger in his honor. "Nick is like a gift," Mohammed said.

About 12 miles north, the township of Alexandra, commonly known as Alex, stretches along hilly terrain near a river. The skyscrapers of Sandton, often referred to as "Africa’s wealthiest square mile," stand in the distance. Here, in a more prosperous section of the township, another kind of business owner captures Hamman’s interest.