The Eat Out Graham Beck Chefs’ Chef, voted for by the chefs at each of the 30 nominated restaurants, is awarded to rockstar chef Ivor Jones for the second year in a row.

It’s not just sweeping Constantia Valley views that make Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia as special as it is. From every single plate that leaves the kitchen to the spirited energy of the restaurant staff, rockstar chef Ivor knows how to run a tight ship. “Ivor’s one of the hardest working chefs I know. His work ethic and commitment is hugely inspirational,” said chef James Gaag of La Colombe.

Ivor Jones was voted as the 2019 Eat Out Graham Beck Chefs’ Chef. Image: Claire Gunn.

Ivor, who cut his teeth under Scot Kirton at La Colombe and Luke Dale Roberts at The Test Kitchen, won this same title in 2018 – in a tie with fellow chef Chris Erasmus – for his fearless passion and drive to deliver exciting food while still remaining one of the most composed chefs out there. “He’s down-to-earth, supportive of fellow chefs, and encouraging of younger chefs to learn and grow. His humility and passion are true examples of what chefs should aspire to be,” says Camphors at Vergelegen‘s chef Michael Cooke.

Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia. Photo supplied.

Chef Dale Stevens of FABER said: “Ivor has shown that it’s okay to be yourself. He is a rockstar; a chef that’s not just cooking amazing food but really inspiring all those around him. I’ve been fortunate to work with him a few years ago; seeing how much he has grown since then is an inspiration!”

With vibrant dishes such as coal-fired asparagus with scorched potato and quail egg; barbecue cauliflower risotto with burnt butter; and white chocolate and sultana mousse with Iranian roses, it’s evident that this hard-grafting chef is showing no signs of slowing down. “He’s not afraid of anything – his food packs an immense punch and tremendous confidence in technique and flavour,” adds Michael.