Candice Philip has been announced as the 2018 Eat Out Nederburg Rising Star at the 2018 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards.

What started out as an apprenticeship at Gallagher Convention Centre soon turned into working under the likes of chefs David Higgs and Luke Dale-Roberts. Now Candice Philip is the captain of her own ship, leading her crew at Grei at The Saxon in Johannesburg with calm and humble ease.

Chef Candice Philip. Photo by The Joburg Foodie.

When Luke Dale-Roberts X The Saxon, where Candice had worked as head chef, closed in early 2018, Candice saw the opportunity to turn the space into her own. Eat Out judging convener Margot Janse is impressed with how Candice stepped up to take charge: “It was about time we saw this chef come out from under the shadows and direct her own show.”

The chef has ensured her touch is evident in everything at Grei, from the name of the restaurant to the décor and, of course, the food.

Chefs Luke Dale-Roberts and Candice Philip. Photo supplied.

Thought and passion are behind every elegant plate sent out by Candice and her small team. Each dish heroes a different herb, showcasing the flavour and aromatics that they bring to each mouthful. Think ostrich tartare with purple hues of red cabbage and sorrel, or texturally brilliant duck with liver parfait, duck breast, and elements of apricot and thyme.

“Her cooking is technically very sound. With a playground at her fingertips, I can’t wait to see how Candice takes cuisine in Johannesburg to the next level,” concludes Margot.

See all the winners of the 2018 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards.