SADYA HOMECOOKED: Soul food of Kerala that 'hits the spot'

Sherin Antony - Owner & Food Enthusiast (Kerala, Backwaters 2023)

Hello, I’m Sherin – but everyone calls me Sher! Welcome to SADYA, a place where spirited cooking and aromatic spices come together to touch the soul.

The name “SADYA” means “banquet” in Malayalam, our dialect of the South Indian province of Kerala. For me, SADYA isn’t just about food; it’s about gathering friends and family around a table, creating memories, and sharing joy. I’ve always loved hosting, feeding, and bringing people together for good food and warm vibes.

SADYA began in 2019 when I found myself longing for the comforting flavors of my parents’ cooking – the kind of food that feels like a warm hug. Growing up, my parents cooked every meal, so by the time I got married in 2015, I barely knew my way around a kitchen! But with love as my guide (and the hope of winning my husband’s heart through his stomach), I began to cook. To my surprise, he started asking for my dishes instead of takeout, and I realized I might just have a knack for it!

I started sharing some of my South Indian dishes with co-workers, who loved them. Over time, my passion for homestyle cooking blossomed, and SADYA grew with it. Every dish I make brings back cherished memories of family and home, filling me with joy that I now share with my customers. This journey truly gives me purpose.

At the end of 2022, I decided it was time to pursue SADYA full-time. I closed 15 years of corporate life to follow my dream of bringing authentic Kerala flavors to Cape Town. In December 2023, I had the privilege of traveling to Kerala to attend the Chavara Institute of Kochi’s Hotel Management course – an experience that deepened my love for South Indian cooking even more.

Over the last 18 months, I’ve trained my team to serve exceptional tasting food & outstanding customer service – one that is not compromised.

SADYA is a celebration of my culture, a piece of my heart, and a tribute to my parents, who taught me that love is the most important ingredient. As my Appa always says, every dish at SADYA is made with love.

SADYA offers both fresh and frozen South Indian dishes, crafted with care to bring the essence of Kerala to your home. These meals are homely, convenient, and always hit the spot!