For the second year in a row, MERTIA was announced as the winner of the Eat Out Woolworths Financial Services Service Excellence Special Award at the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards.

The award recognises a restaurant whose outstanding hospitality, professionalism and attention to detail elevate every dining experience, proving that exceptional service is just as memorable as exceptional food.

Through genuine warmth, care and consistency, the Stellenbosch restaurant, which also received three Eat Out stars for the first time this year, has set the standard for service excellence, creating unforgettable moments for guests and showcasing the vital role hospitality plays in South Africa’s restaurant industry. 

We chatted to owner and founder Marais Kirsten-Uys and head chef Matt van den Berg about their philosophy. Watch below:

 

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