Working in the restaurant industry fosters unique bonds forged through shared pressure, creativity and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. Within South Africa’s culinary community, chefs understand better than anyone the dedication, skill and leadership required to excel in this demanding environment. 

The Eat Out S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna Chefs’ Chef award is bestowed upon a member of the industry by their peers. This unique accolade celebrates an individual’s talent, dedication and integrity, acknowledging not only their culinary achievements but also their role as a source of inspiration and leadership within the local restaurant community. 

Recognising authentic leadership
The award celebrates chefs who demonstrate exceptional mentorship and foster a culture of excellence within their kitchens. This peer-driven recognition carries particular weight, as it comes from those who truly understand the challenges and complexities of professional kitchen leadership. 

Ivor Jones, chef and co-owner of Eat Out two-star restaurant Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia and winner of the 2025 award, embodies this vision through his approach to kitchen leadership. “I’d say I lead with drive and passion for what we are all doing. We treat people like people and push each other and support each other in our daily adventures in our restaurant and life,” he explains, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines exceptional kitchen leadership. 

Committing to the industry
S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna’s sponsorship represents more than brand alignment – it demonstrates genuine commitment to the culinary community. Philip Abrahamson, CEO at Clearworld Suppliers, the South African distributors of S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, emphasises this connection: “The Chefs’ Chef award captures exactly what S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna stand for. It demonstrates our commitment to being an active part of the South African culinary scene while supporting the growth of local chef talent.” 

“We want to build genuine relationships with chefs and be part of their journey,” he continues, reflecting the brands’ philosophy of meaningful industry engagement rather than superficial sponsorship.

Expert insights on industry excellence
Ivor’s advice to aspiring professionals reflects hard-earned wisdom: “Learn to walk before you run. I find so many young chefs are in a hurry to grow fast and want to be a head chef in a few years; but without the time spent cooking and learning, they will be left lacking depth.” 

Such wisdom resonates strongly within an industry where peer respect is earned through years of dedication and skill development. Ivor’s principles reflect authentic leadership: “Cook food that makes you happy. Treat everyone in your team with love and respect. Always be true to your core values.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Eat Out (@eatoutguide)

Forward-looking vision
As Philip concludes, “We hope [the award] inspires chefs to keep growing, challenging themselves, and taking their talent to new levels.” The award represents more than recognition; it’s an investment in South Africa’s culinary future, encouraging both established chefs and emerging talent to pursue mastery while fostering inclusive, respectful kitchen cultures. 

The Chefs’ Chef award ultimately reinforces the power of peer recognition in an industry built on mentorship and mutual respect. By honouring those who elevate others, this partnership strengthens the bonds that drive South African gastronomy forward.

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.