Nestled just a stone’s throw from the airport in Walmer, The Lemon Tree Restaurant isn’t just another place to grab a bite—it’s where Gqeberha gathers. Whether you’re toasting to your bestie’s birthday, sealing a deal over lunch, or meeting the girls for a long-overdue catch-up, this leafy little spot has you covered. Behind it all? Lauren Nash—chef, serial entrepreneur, and the creative force behind The Lemon Tree and other delicious ventures.
We sat down with Lauren to talk food, vision, and why your next celebration should definitely come with a twist of lemon.
MARDEE MARAIS
Lauren, you’ve been making waves in Gqeberha with several successful ventures. If you had to describe your food philosophy in three words, what would they be?
Healthy, delicious, and affordable. That’s the essence of what I try to deliver in everything I do. At the end of the day, food should nourish you, but it should also be something you can enjoy without breaking the bank. I believe we can absolutely have both.
And how did your food journey begin?
I’ve always dreamed of owning a coffee shop. Back in 2019, I started planning what eventually became 78 Havelock. Then 2020 hit—talk about timing! But opening during the pandemic gave us a real-time test of the concept, and we learned to pivot fast. My background has always been in the food and beverage space, and I think people started to know me for these elaborate cheeseboards and my obsession with presentation. One event led to another, and soon I was opening multiple businesses.
Multiple, as in…?
78 Havelock is where it all kicked off—it’s like a fancy canteen in the business district. Great Harvest Table, very casual but thoughtful food. Then there’s In My Kitchen Catering, which mostly services corporate clients. We’re known for our top-tier presentation and flavour. I also co-own Die Hoofmeisies with Jana, my business partner. We’re a bit tongue-in-cheek about the name, but the schools love it. And then there’s my latest baby: The Lemon Tree Restaurant. That one’s close to my heart.
What makes The Lemon Tree so special?
It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a lifestyle destination. We’re strategically located near businesses, schools, the airport… it’s perfect for a quick business lunch or a long, lazy brunch. But more than that, it’s a place where people come to connect. Birthdays, first dates, moms catching up after the school run—it all happens here. And with our “Birthdays with a Twist” campaign, we’re really encouraging people to make memories here.
What’s your biggest strength across all your businesses?
Delivering healthy, fulfilling meals at an affordable price. I’m very intentional about what goes into our food. No preservatives, no weird additives, gluten-free spices, fresh and seasonal ingredients—that matters. I want to know exactly what’s in my food, and I think other moms, especially, feel the same way.
Your attention to detail even extends to the bath products you’re launching?
Yes! The bath range came from a personal need. I have a toddler, and I wanted to know what I was putting on her skin. So, bath salts and soaps became part of the offering. Everything ties back to that same ethos—clean, honest, and nourishing.
With so many moving parts, what’s been the biggest challenge?
Consistency and building a strong team. It’s one thing to have a vision; it’s another to make sure every single team member delivers on it. Training is everything. Also, keeping supplier relationships strong so the whole machine runs smoothly—that’s an ongoing effort.
You launched during the pandemic—how did that shape your mindset?
It taught me to pivot fast. At 78 Havelock, we focused more on takeaway and frozen meals, which ended up being a lifesaver. I had to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of opportunity. That change made all the difference.
How do you handle pressure?
I stay agile. Assess the situation, weigh the options, and move quickly. Communication is key, and having a solid team behind you makes a huge difference. I also try to stay calm, even when things get chaotic.
What’s your leadership style like?
I’ll be honest—I’m not always easy to work for. But I’m intentional. I push people out of their comfort zones because I want them to leave better than they came. It’s not just about the job—it’s about their growth. I’ve had former staff go on to start their businesses, and that’s incredibly rewarding.
What’s next for you?
Skills development is a big one. I want to equip people in the food industry with tools to grow their careers and enterprises. And for The Lemon Tree, I want to keep expanding—more events, more connections, more magic. It’s all about building a community around great food.
Whether you’re stopping in for a green juice on the go or booking the patio for your birthday brunch, The Lemon Tree invites you to eat well, connect deeply, and celebrate with flair. With Lauren Nash behind the scenes, you can bet it’s going to look beautiful—and taste even better.
Follow Lauren Nash on Instagram and LinkedIn:
📍@lauren_nash9
📍@thelemontree_restaurantpe
📍@inmykitchensa
📍@78havelock
Book your next celebration at The Lemon Tree and tag @041online.co.za in your moments—we just might share them! #BirthdaysWithATwist #LemonTreeLife
*AD FEATURE
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