In just one-month, East London’s Lakin Thompson has turned a simple idea into a fast-growing, family-powered business that’s already winning the hearts (and appetites) of locals.
With homemade cookies, savoury platters, snacks, and frozen meals delivered straight to your door, or available for easy collection, her business is a sweet and savoury solution for busy households.
With a mix of heart, hustle, and a deep understanding of what families need, Lakin’s Kitchen has quickly become a trusted name in East London. Whether it’s a midweek frozen meal, a weekend platter, or a cookie fix, she and her team deliver comfort in every bite.
But behind the delicious treats is a much bigger purpose. Thompson, 31, is using her love for food and years of hospitality experience to uplift others, keep costs affordable, and create opportunities in her community.
Can you tell us more about yourself and what inspired this venture?
I’m 31 years old and have lived in East London my entire life, born and bred. I’ve worked in many industries, but mostly hospitality. Since the age of 16, I’ve worked in restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, and grills, coming into contact with so many different foods. I’m not a trained chef or baker, just a passionate foodie.
What really pushed me to start this was seeing how hard things are financially for many families. I wanted to help those who love baking or catering but don’t have the platform to showcase their work.
With this business, I use my strengths to boost local businesses and make food affordable for households. Our profit margins are small, but that’s what keeps it accessible.
It sounds like a real team effort. Who helps you behind the scenes?
It absolutely is! I work closely with my husband, and our two girls are involved to, it’s a family-run business in every sense. We also work with local suppliers and caterers who share the same passion and standards. We’ve built a strong team that makes sure everything is freshly prepared and gets to the customer on time.
How do your deliveries and collection points work?
If a customer pays R50, we offer doorstep delivery anywhere in East London. It’s ideal for people who want full convenience. Otherwise, we have a drop-off zone at Spargs Beacon Bay from Wednesday to Sunday, and we also allow collection from Sunrise-on-Sea on Monday to Thursday and Sundays. We try to make things as easy and flexible as possible.
What has been your most popular item so far?
Our frozen meals and snacks are by far the most popular. Families love having something tasty and ready-to-heat in the fridge or freezer. It’s perfect for busy schedules.
What challenges have you faced since starting?
One of the biggest is when people order but don’t pay on time, ask to pay cash on delivery, or don’t show up to collect. It affects our timing and stock planning. But we learn and adjust; it’s all part of the journey.
How can customers place their orders?
It’s easy. You can inbox us on Facebook, or call or WhatsApp me at 065-683-0005. Many customers just message “Yum and done!”, which has sort of become our catchphrase now.
What does a typical day look like for you?
It starts with my daily vitamins and coffee, and then I get my two girls ready. After that, I’m in full work mode, packing orders, baking, handling messages, co-ordinating deliveries. It’s nonstop, but it’s worth it when you see how happy customers are.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to start a food business like yours?
Trust in God, have faith in yourself, and don’t be afraid to take risks. People will always have opinions, some will tell you to slow down, others to go faster.
Do your research, price fairly, advertise well, and make sure you’re offering convenience. A strong support system is everything.
There will be hard days, but you push through.
What are your hopes for the future of the business?
I’d love to expand beyond East London, offer workshops, take on more corporate and event catering, and really grow this into something sustainable and community-driven. The response so far has been phenomenal, and we’re excited to see what’s next.
Where can one order?
You can call or WhatsApp
065-683-0005 or message “Yum and done!” via Facebook.
