The Heart of Greenfish: A Story of Family, Tradition and Seafood

Ryan Nienaber behind the scenes

Growing up with saltwater coursing through my veins, I've always felt an undeniable connection to the ocean. It's this bond that inspired my brother Andrew and I to start Greenfish, our journey from artisanal handline and tuna pole fishermen to purveyors of quality seafood. Our shared six decades of fishing experience are the bedrock of our business, underpinning our commitment to sustainability and respect for the sea.

 

Greenfish Family

 

Greenfish's Promise: Caring for the environment is at our core

At Greenfish, our mission is clear. We're here to lead the charge in promoting environmentally-friendly seafood choices. Our commitment runs deep - ensuring every catch from our Fresh Fish Shop comes from legally sourced, responsibly managed methods with minimal ecological impact. We pride ourselves on the traceability of our offerings, giving our customers the power to make informed choices about the seafood they consume.

 

Ladies of Greenfish

 

Friday Braai: More Than Just Cooking

As one of the proud owners of Greenfish, I've always believed in treating my team like family. This ethos extends to our traditions, particularly our Friday braais. To me, braaiing is more than grilling - it's a ritual, a connection to my late father and grandfather. The memories we created around that old stainless steel braai are irreplaceable, a symbol of our family legacy.

This past Friday, the 10th of November 2023, was a particularly memorable one. As always, Timbalani, our braai master, lit the fire around two o'clock in the afternoon, preparing the coals to perfection. The team had just finished a deep clean of the factory and the air was ripe with anticipation.

 

Braai Masters

 

The Greenfish Braai: A Symbol of Togetherness

As we gathered around the grill, savouring boerewors rolls and pork chops, there was a sense of unity. It was a time to let down our guards, share laughs, and make memories. The girls set up a photo booth on the pallets, capturing these moments of joy and camaraderie. It's during these braais that I share important updates with the team in a relaxed, informal setting.

But it's not just about the food. It's about the camaraderie, the laughter, the stories shared as we gather around the braai. Our Friday gatherings are an integral part of our culture, a time when everyone lets down their guard, embracing the joy of the moment.

 

Greenfish Braai Ready

 

Honouring a Legacy

Each braai is a nod to my father and grandfather - a way to keep their memories alive. That original stainless steel braai that we used to use when Greenfish was founded, now accompanied by a larger grill to accommodate our growing family at Greenfish, holds a special place in my heart. It's a testament to where we've come from and where we're headed.

Honouring a Legacy Beyond Greenfish

My father's memory is a guiding force in my life, embodied in two treasured possessions – his braai and his comrade's medal. In honour of him, I've committed to running next year’s Comrades Marathon, keeping his spirit alive and blazing within me.

A Bright Future Ahead

Greenfish isn't just about selling seafood; it's about building connections, honouring traditions, and fostering a culture of respect for the ocean and our sea friends. Every product we offer, from our fresh fish to our frozen selections, is a testament to our commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.

So, whether you're planning a braai or looking for the freshest seafood in town, remember that at Greenfish, you're not just a customer; you're part of a family that cherishes the sea and its bounties, sustainably and responsibly. Visit us for not just a purchase, but an experience that connects you to the ocean and its guardians.

 

Greenfish Family Values

 

Connection Through Culinary Creations

For those wondering how to turn what we offer into a delicious homemade meal deserving to be offered at the finest seafood restaurants in Cape Town, our recipes blog, Fishwife Recipes offers an array of recipes tailored to our fresh, frozen and live seafood. From simple family dinners to elaborate feasts, Fishwife transforms our seafood into culinary masterpieces.

The Ocean, Delivered to Your Doorstep

After launching our online platform, we made it possible to have fresh, oceanic delights delivered to your door in under 24 hours, currently serving the Cape Peninsula and Winelands. And, we're excited about expanding our reach soon. It was the impetus for us to bring our dream to life - delivering our low-impact seafood to all South Africans.



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