Whilst nothing can compare to the enormity of today’s anniversary of the passing of the great Nelson Mandela, there is another anniversary that might put a smile on our faces.

25 years ago today, the very first Butler’s pizza was made and delivered from their headquarters at Silwood Kitchens in Rondebosch, using a mere payphone to take the first order!

Some earlier drivers (who I worked alongside) including the likes of David Veary and the great Martin Comerford, will recall with romantic nostalgia, driving through the archway of the historic Silwood building, and on to the next ‘mission.’

And who can forget, from more recent times, the great Clifton Trawler delivery, which made global headlines.

This video captures that incredible moment in epic HD technicolour. 

The Rondebosch branch no longer operates from Silwood and indeed they were not called ‘missions’ in my day – nor were they (missions) tallied, for that matter. I personally believe I must have driven the minimum 1,000 missions I insist on for Butlers drivers to deliver my pizza to me nowadays. And when I say MY pizza, I am indeed referring to The Rotherham pizza – Bacon, Salami and feta – served on a thin base with half the normal amount of cheese AS STANDARD.

Ex-Butler’s drivers will be aware of tonight’s 25-year celebratory bash, being held at Silwood. A night of nostalgia, and a time for us to remember not only 25 years of Butler’s glory, but also to celebrate the life of Madiba – our nation’s father.

Good evening to our dearest friends and family!

We would like you to join us in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the very first Butler’s Pizzamission, right where it launched: on the payphone at South Africa’s first cookery school, Silwood Kitchen exactly 25 years ago on 5 December 1989.

That’s a full quarter century backl!!!

We’re putting together a casual evening of fitting celebration through the archway and under the oaks at Silwood School of Cookery.

It’s also Madiba Blues Day, marking one year since the great man’s passing.

Come hungry for remembrance, with a passion for the future…

Join us as we lift off into our 2nd quarter century of the Butlerverse!

Check out our facebook event HERE.

See you crazy cats there!

Come hungry..