Rudi Liebenberg, celebrated chef and winner of the 2022 Eat Out Lannice Snyman Lifetime Achievement Award, is back on South African soil and has taken up the position of Executive Chef at the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff in Johannesburg.

Rudi was at the helm of the Mount Nelson kitchen in Cape Town for many years before leaving the country to cook abroad. His return marks somewhat of a homecoming, as Joburg is his hometown. And his appointment at The Westcliff comes at a time when the hotel is embarking on a big culinary transformation.

“Returning to Johannesburg feels like coming full circle,” says Rudi. “I’m excited to work with the incredible produce and flavours of this region, and to create memorable dining experiences that celebrate South African cuisine while incorporating global influences.”

In addition to his cooking expertise, the veteran chef is known in the industry for his passion for training and mentoring young talent, finding innovative methods to reduce waste, sourcing sustainable ingredients, and building strong relationships with his suppliers.

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Rudi will oversee all food and beverage operations at The Westcliff, including its signature restaurant, Flames, as well as banqueting, events, and the new outlets launching as part of the property’s latest developments. With his extensive knowledge and experience in hotel and resort cooking, Rudi is the ideal choice for this role.

As these changes unfold, and with Rudi overseeing the culinary direction, we eagerly anticipate the experiences The Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff will bring to its guests.