Missed SA Chef Conference & Expo 2025?
check out our highlights reel and dive into the Discussions Below:
Day one - 11 August 2025
Day two - 12 August 2025
Thank you to Our partners & exhibitors
thank you to Our Speakers
testimonials
Celebrate the incredible flavours of South Africa! The Gastronomy Tourism Awards, proudly presented by Tymebank and SA Chef Media, honour the chefs and culinary establishments that make South Africa a must-visit gastronomic destination!
Our 2025 winners
Best in Gastronomy Tourism: Fine and Casual Dining
Presented by Unilever Food Solutions
This award honours and celebrates a chef and/or culinary establishment that crafts extraordinary and innovative cuisine, elevating South Africa’s status as a premier gastronomic destination and attracting both local and international tourists.
Winner: Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Chef Gareth Jordaan
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, a prestigious Johannesburg establishment holding 5-Star Premium Status awarded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, has received numerous accolades for its outstanding dining experiences. The hotel hosts a variety of events that foster a deeper connection with guests while promoting culinary tourism. Led by Executive Chef Gareth Jordaan, their imaginative use of the grounds, the creation of world-class South African dishes, and exceptional service ensure a high-quality dining experience that exceeds expectations and showcases what a true 5-star experience looks like in South Africa.
Best in Gastronomy Tourism: Cultural Dining
Presented by TymeBank
This award honours and celebrates a chef and/or culinary establishment that fosters appreciation for local ingredients and elevates traditional cooking methods, showcasing the rich diversity of South African culture through cuisine.
Winner: Les Creatifs
Owner and Chef Wandile Mabaso
With a vision to transform Johannesburg into the culinary capital of Africa, Chef Wandile Mabaso at Les Creatifs is not just offering cultural dining; he is spearheading a culinary revolution that elevates South Africa’s status on the global stage. Each plate is a work of art, and the exclusive dining space in Bryanston, is a visual feast. Chef Wandile and his team are driving the Afrique Moderne gastronomy and cultural movement, redefining what local and international tourists can experience in South Africa.
Best in Gastronomy Tourism: Sustainability
Presented by Unilever Food Solutions
This award honours and celebrates a chef and/or culinary establishment that champions and implements effective solutions for sustainable and ethical practices in the culinary sector, thereby enhancing South Africa’s reputation as a responsible gastronomic tourism destination.
Winner: The LivingRoom at Summerhill Estate
Owner and Chef Johannes Richter
While many establishments merely check the sustainability box, it lies at the heart of Chef Johannes Richter’s culinary philosophy at The LivingRoom at Summerhill Estate. By collaborating with small sustainable farmers within a specific radius of his KZN restaurant, Chef Johannes leverages his craft to promote the region’s rich heritage. Remarkably, non-South African ingredients account for just 0.1% of the total used at The LivingRoom. The restaurant has consistently been recognised as one of South Africa’s premier dining destinations, where sustainability, storytelling, heritage, and generous hospitality converge on every plate.
Best in Gastronomy Tourism: Immersive Experiences
Presented by TymeBank
This award honours and celebrates a chef and/or culinary establishment that blends food with entertainment or culture, creating memorable gastronomic tourism experiences that are innovative, immersive, and Proudly South African.
Winner: Veld & Sea
Owner Roushanna Gray, Chef Rochelle de Wet
Nestled between the mountains and sea of the Cape Peninsula, Roushanna Gray’s immersive education space Veld & Sea attracts visitors seeking unique, place-specific gastronomic adventures that forge a deep connection to the land, ocean, and local traditions. Their seasonal experiences are highly sought after by both domestic travellers and international tourists, often booking well in advance or planning their travels specifically to visit Veld & Sea. Each season brings its own unique charm, encouraging return visits to fully appreciate the distinct flavours and experiences of the region.
Mandla Khupe, General Manager of Commercial & Business Development at TymeBank, said: “Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. South Africa’s culinary entrepreneurs are elevating our cuisine while powering jobs and tourism. We know the role we play in enabling that growth. Our first advance, 14 years ago, was to a restaurant, and we’ve stayed active in the sector funding thousands more by keeping capital accessible, turnaround fast and terms flexible for chefs and restaurateurs.”
Have questions about the SA Chef Conference & Expo? Contact heidi@sachefmag.co.za