BlackBrick Gardens, the upcoming Cape Town property from the BlackBrick hotel group, has confirmed a partnership with chef and consultant Diego Silva, founder of Bonfire Experience. Silva joins the team as Food & Beverage Partner, bringing over a decade of experience in global culinary consulting.
Silva will oversee the development of two dining venues scheduled to launch with the hotel in October 2025. The concepts, ARRIBA and ATRAS, will offer contrasting experiences. ATRAS is described as a more refined, intimate space, while ARRIBA is positioned as a casual, communal dining environment. Both will focus on high-quality, ingredient-led menus.
The Peruvian-born chef has previously contributed to culinary initiatives at international establishments such as Noma (Denmark), La Granja Farmhouse (Spain), Tulum Treehouse (Mexico), and Mercat Tramuntana (Spain). In his work, he prioritises simplicity, seasonality, and narrative-driven food experiences.
Silva notes that his focus will be on building a food offering that evolves organically with the space and its patrons.
“I want to help shape spaces where food feels honest – sparks interest – a place that grows with time. A place that feels like yours, even if it’s your first time walking in.”
As part of the collaboration, Silva will guide menu design, oversee seasonal updates, and introduce immersive dining elements. The initiative will also integrate hyper-local sourcing and sustainability practices aligned with the property’s broader positioning.
