Level Four uses app to connect to the freshest fish in the Cape

With his new summer menu, Matthew Foxon at Level Four at 54 on Bath is again unearthing sustainable local produce from small to medium suppliers, this time through an innovate app for chefs that connects then with what’s available from small-scale local fishers on the Western Cape coast.

Foxon’s use of the Abalobi app allowed him to change Level Four’s approach to fish on the menu. When customers order the Abalobi fish from the restaurant’s menu, they are also given a QR code that provides details of the fish and where and when it was caught, as well as the fisher and his history.

Level Four was the first Johannesburg restaurant to start using the Abalobi app. The participating fishers on the Abalobi initiative – #fromhooktocook – load their ‘catch of the day’ onto the app, and when and where it was caught. Chefs are then notified and can purchase off the app. Systems are in place for fresh and fast delivery.

In addition to the fresh line fish, Level Four’s new menu features favourites that have been tweaked for summer, as well as new dishes. Starters include crab & line fish bouillabaisse with roasted garlic rouille and seafood tortellini and poached prawns. Among the mains are pekin duck and our favourite, the sensational sweetcorn risotto. Dessert includes white chocolate ganache and vanilla crème brulee with strawberry salsa. Chef Matthew has also been working with Dalewood Fromage cheesery in the Western Cape to create a selection of ripened cheeses exclusive for 54 on Bath.