Each year, chefs and restaurant industry professionals eagerly await the announcement of the top restaurants in the country at the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, excited to find out which restaurants have earned a coveted one, two or three Eat Out stars. 

But the Awards are about more than the stars of the evening; recognition on the night is also shown through a set of Special Awards, which are handed out to 14 deserving recipients. 

The Eat Out Callebaut Dessert Award makes up one Special Award and acknowledges those who have curated an extraordinary dessert offering, highlighting Eat Out’s purpose of elevating all aspects of South African dining. And at the heart of the award, of course, sits the magic of chocolate.  

What makes a winner
When deliberating over the award winner, the judging panel looks for exceptional creativity in pastry and dessert creations. Recipients should showcase innovative techniques, flavour combinations and presentation, pushing the boundaries of traditional desserts to bring fresh ideas to the table. They must display a mastery of various pastry techniques and aim for precision, consistency and attention to detail in their creations, while exhibiting a deep understanding of ingredients, textures and flavour profiles. 

“The Eat Out Callebaut Dessert Award embodies Callebaut’s legacy of craftsmanship, creativity and innovation,” says the Callebaut team. “For more than a century, Callebaut has believed that great chocolate inspires great artistry, a belief captured in our Masters of Taste philosophy. Through Masters of Taste, Callebaut continues to elevate dessert-making into an art form, empowering chefs to push the boundaries of flavour, texture and presentation. It’s more than recognition – it’s a celebration of excellence and a tribute to the enduring spirit that defines Callebaut chocolate.” 

 

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Life-changing recognition
Motheba Makhetha was announced as the inaugural winner of the award in 2023 and for her it was a transformative experience that extended far beyond the ceremony itself. “The experience of it all felt completely out of body. Knowing that all the hard work I’ve put in over the years is finally paying off and being recognised on a platform like Eat Out is always a pinch-me moment,” she reflects. 

“On a personal level, it’s amazing to pat yourself on the back and realise what you’re capable of. I’ve always been my own worst critic, so an award like this will forever be engraved in me. Professionally, it’s always amazing to be recognised for the work you put in. I’ve been able to travel through my love of food, meet so many influential people and build so many beautiful relationships because of it.” 

Since winning, the opportunities have been endless. “Over the past two years, I’ve definitely built so many relationships and learnt so much. I’ve been able to work with some really amazing brands and chefs. I’ve also been able to expose myself to so many different kitchens, which has allowed me to learn so much.” 

 

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A partnership with purpose
This recognition is made possible through Callebaut’s sponsorship, which extends far beyond a simple award. At the core of this partnership lies chocolate itself – an ingredient that has captivated humanity for centuries. From its rich, complex flavour profiles to its endless versatility, chocolate serves as both foundation and inspiration for countless dessert innovations. In the hands of skilled pastry chefs, premium chocolate becomes a medium for artistic expression, allowing creators to explore textures, temperatures and taste combinations that push the boundaries of what dessert can be. 

A vision for South Africa’s dessert future
Callebaut’s commitment extends beyond recognition – it’s about cultural transformation. “Callebaut’s sponsorship brings global credibility to South Africa’s dessert scene. The brand’s involvement signals that dessert is no longer a supporting act – it’s a headliner,” says Chantal Molnar, Head of the Callebaut Academy in South Africa.  

“As a passionate advocate for shifting South Africa’s ‘meat-first’ culture, Callebaut views this partnership as a catalyst for change. It validates the dedication of pastry chefs and encourages restaurants to invest in dessert innovation, helping to reimagine the end of the meal as the most memorable part.” 

To achieve this transformation, the partnership leverages both brands’ unique strengths. “This partnership focuses on Callebaut’s century-long chocolate expertise, as well as Eat Out’s powerful influence in South Africa’s dining landscape. Together, they amplify the visibility of dessert innovation, reward technical brilliance and inspire chefs to push creative boundaries. 

“Callebaut is thrilled by the energy and innovation emerging in South Africa’s culinary evolution. Chefs are embracing bold ideas, diners are more adventurous, and desserts are finally stepping into the spotlight. With Callebaut’s support and Eat Out’s platform, South Africa is building a culture where dessert leads the conversation – and indulges in a delicious future worth celebrating.” 

Stay tuned to Eat Out in the build-up to the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, set to take place at the Baxter Theatre Centre on 23 March 2026.