Parmalat Kota Queen competition celebrates creativity and flavour

Parmalat celebrated the flavour and creativity behind the community’s beloved food at its second Parmalat Kota King or Queen (PKKQ) cook-off at the Maponya Mall on September 27.

The cook-off brought together six top kota outlets from Soweto and the East Rand. The finalists battled for a R20 000 prize across three rounds, showcasing creativity and the versatility of the creamy Parmalat cheese.

Entries were judged across five criteria: taste and flavour, creativity, cheese integration, presentation and uniqueness of cooking method.

ALSO READ: Blue Ribbon Soweto Kota Festival draws 18,000 food and music lovers

Judges included Lactalis SA representatives, the 2024 Kota Queen, Silindile Lwandle Duma of Lwandle Fast Food, musician Dali Danger, and social media sensation Robot Boii.

‘’At Parmalat, we’re committed to partnering with SA and local communities to build a better tomorrow.

“The PKKQ competition celebrates small business owners who bring communities together through food,” said Moné Gerryts, the marketing manager for Parmalat Cheese.

After three rounds, Julia Hobyane of Dinah’s Kitchen was crowned the 2025 Parmalat Kota Queen, winning R20 000. Judges praised her creativity in elevating the traditional kota using Parmalat cheese slices.

ALSO READ: Star-studded Soweto Kota Festival to hit Dobsonville

Mthokozisi Ngcobo of Le Phonic placed second, winning R5 000, and Eunice Moshane of Kasi Flavour placed third.

Each shortlisted outlet won R2 000, and all six finalists received a R50 000 branding makeover for their kota outlets, including a fresh coat of paint, new Parmalat signage, printed menus and an upgraded seating area.

The competition is part of Parmalat’s broader initiative to develop communities by supporting small businesses and recognising the entrepreneurs behind popular kota outlets.