A South African in France and his big dream

Help Bring a Taste of South Africa to a French Village — A Dream 34 Years in the Making

Howzit, friends!

My name is Bertold Freitag, and I’m a South African chef who followed his heart—and his appetite for adventure—to France. Together with my wonderfully creative wife, we’ve settled in the charming village of Saint-Christophe-du-Luat, a place rich in potential and in need of a little culinary spark.

For 34 years, I’ve dreamed of opening my own restaurant—a place where I could celebrate the bold, beautiful flavors of South African cuisine while embracing the elegance of French culinary tradition. That dream is now closer than ever to becoming reality… but I need your help to make it happen.

The heart of our village—its only restaurant—shut down when the previous owner retired. Since then, the community has lost its social hub. Recognizing the impact, the local council approached me to breathe new life into the space. They’ve generously offered to handle the kitchen fit-out and exterior renovations. All that’s left is for me to bring the soul—the food, the atmosphere, and the experience.

Here’s the challenge: Moving from South Africa to France took everything we had financially. As many of you know, the exchange rate from Rand to Euro is tough, and while passion fuels me, it doesn’t pay for permits, equipment, or the countless other startup costs.

That’s where your support means everything.

I want to create something special: a warm, welcoming space that fuses the rich, soulful flavors of South African food with the finesse and artistry of French cuisine. I’ve spent decades refining my craft, working grueling hours in kitchens, helping others build their dreams and creating their financial success. Now, it’s my turn.

This isn’t just about opening a restaurant—it’s about building community, celebrating culture, and sharing joy through food. If you believe in second chances, in bold flavors, and in following your dream no matter how long it takes, I’d be honored if you joined me on this journey.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

With gratitude,

Chef Bertold.