The 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards took centre stage at the Baxter Theatre Centre in Cape Town on Monday, 31 March. The ceremony was a star-studded affair, bringing together the country’s leading chefs, restaurateurs and industry figures for an evening celebrating South Africa’s culinary excellence.

As part of Eat Out’s ongoing evolution, the 2025 judging process took a more comprehensive and transparent approach. Over eight months, a panel of eight anonymous, independent judges visited each shortlisted restaurant multiple times – during both peak and off-peak periods – to ensure a fair and all-encompassing assessment.

“This year’s winners represent the pinnacle of South African dining,” says Abigail Donnelly, Eat Out’s Culinary Director. “The new judging process ensures that every star awarded truly reflects consistent excellence, from innovation on the plate to the overall guest experience. The level of talent and dedication in our restaurant industry is nothing short of world-class.”

Eat Out’s star-rating system remains the gold standard in South Africa, with restaurants earning 1, 2 or 3 stars based on their final scores. The criteria cover every aspect of the dining experience, from food quality and technique to service, ambience and value. The coveted 3-star rating is reserved for restaurants scoring over 90 out of 100, while 2-star and 1-star ratings go to those scoring between 80 and 89 and 70 and 79 respectively. Achieving even a single star is no small feat, with only the very best making the cut and setting themselves apart.

The Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards celebrate more than just outstanding dining – they recognise the trailblazers shaping South Africa’s culinary future. The Special Awards honour sustainability champions, rising stars and industry icons who elevate the dining experience through innovation, service and craftsmanship. From mixology masters to dessert virtuosos, these awards highlight the individuals and teams bringing creativity and excellence to every aspect of restaurant hospitality.

Roy Bagattini, Woolworths Holdings Group CEO, says: “At Woolworths, our commitment to innovation, sustainability and sourcing the finest ingredients goes beyond what’s on the plate – it’s about fostering a thriving, responsible food industry. The Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards celebrate the visionaries shaping the future of dining in South Africa, from chefs pushing creative boundaries to those leading the way in ethical and sustainable practices. We are particularly proud of the , which recognises restaurants setting new standards for sustainability in the industry. These awards highlight the passion and dedication of those who inspire us all to elevate food culture while making a lasting impact.”

was awarded , having attained the highest score of any restaurant in the country. The judges said: “It is a restaurant that balances the history of its unique setting, acknowledging and critiquing its past while celebrating its immediate environment through hyper-local foraging. This storytelling runs through its menu, complemented by attentive, knowledgeable and friendly service. There is a wonderful sense of generosity here, and guests feel special from the moment they arrive.”

The award went to of in Pinetown. The judges said: “This chef’s culinary approach transcends mere cooking; he is deeply conceptual, crafting edible narratives. With a modern, innovative flair, he masterfully blends the richness of local ingredients, showcasing a profound respect for South Africa and his region’s culinary heritage. His menus, brought to life through masterful techniques, are a testament to this. Beyond the kitchen, he is a true champion of sustainable practices, building strong relationships with local farmers and producers, thus enriching the local food ecosystem. Each plate leaving his kitchen is a masterclass in passion and precision.”

was the recipient of another special award: the (previously called the Eat Out Woolworths Sustainability Award). The judges said: “The restaurant’s unwavering commitment to showcasing local ingredients sets it apart, working with farms within a 100km radius that follow organic practices and promote indigenous food crops. It keeps a close watch on single-use plastic, reducing and removing it from supply chains wherever possible. Foraging is done thoughtfully, always mindful of nature’s delicate balance. And when it comes to non-South African ingredients, they make up a staggeringly low 0.1% of the total. Energy efficiency is just as important to this winner as serving exceptional food. Solar power has cut its electricity consumption by a third, while invasive species wood is used for cooking, grilling and baking. This restaurant is more than a place to eat; it is proof that sustainability is not just possible, but essential.”

This year’s is , executive chef at in Woodstock. The judges said: “He has carved out his own distinctive path, and his story serves as a powerful reminder of how passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievement. In him, we see the bright future of South African food and the inspiring potential of those who pursue their dreams with heart and determination.”

• Cyra
• Epice
• La Petite Colombe
• Eat Out S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna Chefs’ Chef: Ivor Jones

Stay tuned to Eat Out’s social media channels in the next few weeks as we delve into more detail about these exceptional winners and share some behind-the-scenes fun from the event!