Chef Luckson Mare of The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate, an Eat Out 2-star restaurant in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, has been crowned the winner of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Africa, Middle East & South Asia Regional Final. This victory secures him a spot in the global finals, set to take place in Milan in 2025.   

ALSO READ: Shaping the future of the restaurant industry by nurturing young talent

Luckson has been honing his craft at The LivingRoom for the past three years. His culinary journey began in his mother’s kitchen, where, as the youngest of five children, he played an integral role in preparing the family’s meals. For the competition, Luckson cooked and presented a dish of duck, sweet potato, and matungulu (Natal coastal plum) – a combination that impressed the judges.  

Reflecting on his dish, he shared: “I’ve taken the humble root and paired it with duck, which, to me, symbolises fine dining and the skills I’ve gained in the industry – particularly butchery. I’ve complemented it with wild-foraged matungulu, paying homage to chef Johannes, who has taught me so much.”   

“It really is such a privilege to have won,” he says. “In a way, it feels like the world has suddenly opened up to me, and I am so excited to have the opportunity to go to Milan to compete and meet so many of my culinary heroes. I’m so grateful to the jury for not only enjoying my dish, but also appreciating and understanding the story behind it. And, of course, I’m deeply thankful to my mentor, chef Johannes, for his continuous support and guidance.”   

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate (@thelivingroomatsummerhill)

Johannes Richter heads up The LivingRoom as executive chef together with his wife Johanna. The restaurant is celebrated for its hyperlocal philosophy, highlighting the unique ingredients and culinary heritage of the KwaZulu-Natal area. As the winner of the 2023 Eat Out Woolworths Sustainability Award, the restaurant embodies a commitment to integrity and transparency, offering dishes that are deeply rooted in their local context.

Mark your calendars for the 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, taking place on 31 March 2025. Click here to see the full list of 2023 winners!