Brought to you by S. Pellegrino and Acqua Panna

On 19 November 2017, at the 2017 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards, we’ll announce the 2017 Eat Out S. Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year. The award recognises an outstanding chef working in South Africa.

Last year, Gregory Czarnecki of The Restaurant at Waterkloof took the honours, and received, as part of his prize, a trip to Italy, to cook along with some of the world’s best chefs at Care’s Ethical Chef Days.

Foie-gras terrine, hibiscus, quince and pain d’epices. Photo by Jan Ras.

“Greg’s dishes shine with confidence and showcase immense skill and rigorous attention to detail. His presentation is more than perfect, which offers an incredible eating experience,” said Eat Out editor and judge Abigail Donnelly of Greg’s win.

Chef Gregory Czarnecki of Restaurant at Waterkloof. Photo by Jan Ras.

Gregory has some sage advice for other young and aspiring chefs. “Work hard, read, ask questions and practice makes perfect. Just like Fernand Point once said, ‘A béarnaise sauce is simply an egg yolk, a shallot, a little tarragon vinegar, and butter, but it takes years of practice for the result to be perfect.’”

Other past winners include industry heavyweights Scot Kirton of La Colombe in 2015, Chantel Dartnall of The Restaurant at Mosaic in 2014, David Higgs (then of 500) in 2013.

Elderflower-cured Norwegian salmon with citrus-dressed king crab at La Colombe. Photo supplied.

This year, the award will be judged again by Eat Out editor Abigail Donnelly, and her panel of anonymous judges.

Stay tuned to Eat Out on 19 November to find out who wins the Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year.

About the sponsor

Distributed in over 130 countries on five continents, S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Mineral waters are known for their distinct taste, they represent excellence, and Italian style. Both are synonymous with gourmet food and wine culture and are renowned for their support of emerging and established chef talent. The Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year Award is one such initiative, recognising an outstanding chef working in South Africa.