The commission’s spokeswoman, Gail Smith, said the complaint was laid on Monday and that they were busy processing it.

“The commission notes the media interest in the subject matter of the complaint, but notes further that it is too early in the process to comment.”

The board was put up outside the restaurant earlier this year but a picture of it made the rounds on social media last week, with many people calling it disgusting, while others seemed to see humour in the message.

Liquorice and Lime owner Dylan Pritchard was not available for comment and the manager said he would not comment on the matter.

Pritchard responded with an apology to a post by Caitlin Cloete, who shared a picture of the board.

“Please accept my sincere apologies for any offence. This particular board was displayed in February and removed within the hour as we acknowledged that it was a very poor attempt at satire – it was meant to be taken with a pinch of salt and a healthy dose of humour.

"We seriously have no intent to align ourself with any particular group or alienate ourselves from any other. It was definitely insensitive and misguided.”

Tasneem Shadrach said she wasn't offended by the post.

“This is pure ignorance, it doesn’t upset me. I’m just so happy that people from other faith groups find this distasteful. I’m so proud to be South African right now.

"Thank you, beautiful people. Let’s continue to unite against injustice and uphold the values of our constitution,” she added.

Juan Pieterse said he found it interesting that people assumed the post was about Muslim people.

“Interesting observation, why do most people see this sign as anti-Muslim instead of anti-vegan?

“People immediately assumed that this poster takes a stab at Muslims even though it never even mentions religion. Does one not have to have a tiny bit of prejudice to make this leap? There are various types of suicide bombers over the world blowing themselves up for different causes.”

Shaadia Vawda posted a review on Liquorice and Lime’s Facebook page and said: “Never tasted the food, but when the owners make comments in poor taste, then it renders everything tasteless.

"In 2016, you should know better,” she said.

Source: IOL