The Eat Out Rising Star Special Award recognises young, up-and-coming talents who are reshaping South Africa’s restaurant landscape. This award celebrates individuals with a future-forward approach who demonstrate innovation, break barriers and explore new ways of working with food and serving customers.

What makes a rising star
“A rising star is someone who demonstrates the potential for greatness – not just as a talented chef but as a future leader and changemaker in the industry,” explains Tessa Purdon, Head of Content at Eat Out. “They’re the chefs asking hard questions. They’re visionaries who see the bigger picture. They recognise that the future of their industry depends not just on creating delicious dishes, but on building a more inclusive, sustainable food culture.”

The award tackles an important gap in the industry – shining a light on the young chefs making waves in the industry. “The Rising Star award represents Eat Out’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary leaders who will shape South Africa’s food landscape,” says Tessa. “As the industry evolves and progresses, the future of the industry lies in the hands of emerging talent.”

Amplifying diverse voices
The award seeks to celebrate South Africa’s rich cultural diversity. “The pool of talent in South Africa is incredibly broad and it’s our duty and privilege to shine a light on the wonderfully diverse cultures that we have here,” notes Tessa. “It’s an asset that many countries around the world just don’t have. The Rising Star award actively seeks out these diverse voices because we understand that great South African food cannot be told through a single lens.”

 

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Real impact
Nathan Clarke, the 2025 Eat Out Rising Star award winner and head chef at Eat Out one-starred restaurant The Test Kitchen Fledgelings, knows firsthand what this recognition can do. “Getting that kind of recognition at the Eat Out Awards was overwhelming in the best way, so much joy, happiness, and excitement,” he says. “It’s without a doubt one of the best feelings of my career.”

The impact has been tangible. “With the recognition, chefs look at me differently, and I’ve built a lot more confidence, especially from a business-minded perspective. More young chefs want to work with me,” Nathan explains.

His advice to emerging chefs reflects the award’s core values: “I always encourage the new generation of chefs to stay humble, motivated and passionate. With the right attitude, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve in this industry.”

Building the future
For Tessa, the award’s true value lies in its long-term impact. “The Rising Star award helps to create a platform for recognition that will serve these chefs – and ultimately our entire restaurant scene, ensuring that it remains vibrant, authentic and forward-thinking for future generations.”

Through celebrating emerging talent, the award ensures South African cuisine continues to evolve while honouring the diverse voices that make it so unique.

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.