We are excited to announce that we have secured an international judge for the 2012 Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards.

Internationally acclaimed food writer and restaurant reviewer Bruce Palling will arrive in South Africa later this year to assist in whittling down the finalists for the Top 10 restaurants across the country, as well as the winners of the other accolades, including Chef of the Year and Service Excellence Award. The cream of the restaurant industry crop will be announced at a gala evening in November this year.

Bruce, who lives in London, is the food columnist for the Wall Street Journal Europe and an avid blogger on www.gastroenophile.com. As a former war correspondent for the BBC, Bruce will be prepared for the great battle amongst local chefs for the top spot. He was also a Mystery Shopper for the prestigious Soho House Group for many years.

Abigail Donnelly, Eat Out editor and judge, says, “We are very excited to have Bruce joining us as judge. He is not only an exceptional food writer but has also been on the judging panel for the San Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurants Awards for the past six years. He brings extensive international experience and knowledge to Eat Out and our awards – something that we’ve always aspired to.”

Stay tuned to Eat Out to hear updates about the awards. In the meantime, nominate your choice for the most stylish restaurant in South Africa here, the winner of which will be judged by premier design magazine, Visi.