Debbie Hall

This Cape Town luxury bed/linen specialist is a trained chef whod love an AGA in her kitchen
Text Raphaella Frame-Tolmie Styling Lauren Gormley Pnotograpi Simon Scarboro
As the owner of Cape Town-based luxury bed and linen company The Hall Collection, Debbie Hall knows a thing or two about sleeping in style. However, she also makes one of the meanest cheesecakes around, a fact confirmed by all who have tried it.
Having trained at Silwood School of Cookery, she credits much of her skill to her mentors, including Lesley Faull, 'who taught me to be generous and abundant, to always search for the best ingredients and to love what I do1. Debbie adores the aroma of onions slowly caramelising, and has an absolute weakness for hot. home-made bread with plenty of butter. She hosts open-day luncheons at her showroom every Wednesday, where it's obvious she believes in hospitality. 'Growing up in homes where mothers cook with love has a big impact on families.' says Debbie. 'This doesn't mean fancy food - it's about the sharing and the care that we experience around the kitchen table.' thehallcollection.co.za
What tastes remind you of childhood? My grandparents were Dutch and English. I remember roast beef, cinnamon and raisin buns, and speculaas (spicy Dutch biscuit). What's always in your pantry? Cream, truffle paste, olives. Parmesan, fresh herbs, avocados, home-made mayonnaise, good pasta and Italian tomatoes. Can't live without? Flowers, long, hot baths, beautiful linen and food. And, of course, my family. Your most memorable meal? You hear about the 'best restaurants', but The French Laundry in the Napa Valley, USA, has something different: understated interiors, impeccable, warm service, the finest Napa Valley wines and sophisticated but unpretentious foods. What's your entertaining style? I love a beautifully set table, lots of candles and fresh flowers, and cooking in the kitchen with my friends and family. Favourite foodie destination? I love Italian food and Italian people. They use the best and simplest ingredients, and create food that seems to feed the soul. I think it's because it is mostly prepared at the last minute and served immediately. What should every kitchen have? People who cook for their families with love. I see a lot of fancy kitchens where no one cooks unless they are using the toaster or the microwave. In my own kitchen,
I can’t live without my old Kenwood food processor, coffee machine, juicer and gas cooker! Top of your kitchen wish list?
An AGA wood-burning stove and a Thermomix. What would your last meal be? Avocado, butter, cheese and salt on toasted rye. and a bottle of good French champagne, with my family.')