It’s so difficult keeping quiet at the moment, while I’m in the midst of judging restaurants for this year’s Eat Out Dstv Food Network Restaurant Awards. I just want to spill and share about the mind-bending meals I’ve had!

But the other judges (who will be revealed on the night of the awards, 10 November) and I are keeping our lips sealed while the last of the judging takes place.

I’ve not had time to visit any new restaurants (except some lunchtime visits to my local Nando’s), but I will definitely fill you in when I start finding fresh down-the-road secrets sometime in October.

I’m dying to try out a new branch of our favourite neighbourhood restaurant opposite Kalk Bay Harbour, La Parada, which has just opened in Bree Street, near my office. The rest of the team is giving it good reviews.

The plans for the awards this year are something quite different, and it’s been tough to keep that under wraps, too. We’ve turned the concept on its head, with elements of surprise that are going to blow you away. (Yes, there are still tickets available, but best you buy them soon!)

Yesterday I saw 500 handmade bowls in the ceramist’s kiln, fired for one of the chef’s courses at the awards. They were perfectly on brief – just like handmade and folded pastry.

I can’t say much more at this stage, but we’re in for one magnificent night. I hope we can share it with you.

Abigail