How It All Started

Back in the day, Jakes was a man of many hats (and surfboards). He first ran Jakes Signs, before selling up and heading off to the family’s cladding and roofing business in the Eastern Cape. From there he tried his hand at being an insurance broker in Kokstad, then found himself debt collecting in the Transkei — a gig that had his younger brother Pierre seriously worried for his safety.

Luckily, the ocean always called Jakes back. An avid surfer with a soft spot for the breaks at St Mikes and Southbroom, he never strayed too far from the water. In 1999, the brothers spotted an opportunity — and together bought a farm from Sven Wickstrom, principal of Creston College.

Jakes wasn’t just a wave rider; he’s a muso at heart. With blues legends like Eric Clapton and Joe Bonamassa on his playlist, he dreamed of a spot where music and good vibes flowed as easily as the beer. On 8 December 2001 , Rocky Ridge officially opened its doors. The kitchen? Just a shade tent, with Warren Moore (now executive chef at the world-class Kuredu Resort in the Maldives) working the pans.

Around the same time, Barbie Meyer and Heather Benze were running The Jam, a musician-sourcing outfit bringing Durban’s best acts down the South Coast. Pretty soon, Rocky Ridge became the stage of choice — where music, laughter, and salt-spray stories came together under one roof.

Life at Rocky Ridge was always family-flavoured too. Jakes’ daughter Jessica literally grew up on the farm — her “room” was the bar storeroom! These days she’s a Nia Teaching Professional but still pops in to help her Dad keep things rocking. Today, Jakes and Janina (chef/owner at Fika Deli Café) steer the ship, making sure the food, music, and spirit are just as alive as day one.

Jakes has always had a huge love for animals. Rocky Ridge has been home to his four-legged family too — these days Blade, Willow, Shatsi and Daniel keep him company, while legends of the past like Rocky, Ridge and Pegasis are fondly remembered. That same love inspired the hugely successful SPCA fundraiser held at Rocky Ridge, which has become a much-loved community event.

And here’s the thing: at Rocky Ridge, nobody’s a stranger. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted, welcomed, and — more often than not — leave as a friend. That’s how it’s always been. That’s how it all started.