For more than 26 years, Eat Out has stood as the unrivaled publication guiding South Africa’s diners to exceptional culinary experiences. Building on the success of its bold 2024 reimagining – which positioned the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards and its winners at the core of the brand’s identity – 2025’s issue promises to elevate South Africa’s vibrant dining culture to new heights.

The captivating cover was styled by Eat Out’s legendary Culinary Director and award-winning food stylist Abigail Donnelly, setting the tone for the visual feast inside.

“The 2025 magazine represents our most ambitious exploration of South Africa’s dynamic restaurant landscape to date,” says Eat Out Head of Content Tessa Purdon. “We’ve created a publication that doesn’t just document our culinary scene but actively champions its evolution.” 

Apart from the comprehensive list of Eat Out star restaurants, readers can expect a journey through the forces reshaping the country’s food identity. Dive into in-depth investigations of sustainability initiatives, from innovative approaches to minimising food waste to the growing hyperlocal sourcing movement – practices that increasingly define excellence in today’s dining landscape. We also spotlight indigenous African ingredients, showcasing how the country’s most forward-thinking chefs are reimagining traditional elements for contemporary palates while honouring their cultural significance. 

Beyond the plate, the 2025 edition expands its definition of culinary excellence to encompass the complete sensory dining experience. Features examining the intersection of music, lighting, interior design, and customer service demonstrate how they transform meals into memorable occasions. Expect profiles on award-winning restaurants and chefs that go deeper than accolades to reveal the personal journeys, creative philosophies, and signature techniques that distinguish South Africa’s culinary vanguards. We hope that these stories connect readers more deeply with the passionate people driving the industry forward. 

As Eat Out continues its mission of identifying and celebrating the restaurants that define excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation across South Africa, the 2025 magazine stands as both a testament to how far our culinary scene has come and a vision of where it’s headed next. 

Get your copy as soon as it arrives on shelves at Woolworths stores in late April!