The winner of this year’s Boschendal Style Award will be announced at the annual Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards on 10 November 2013.

The inaugural winner of the award was Makaron in 2011 and the Green House at Babylonstoren in 2012. But what defines a stylish restaurant? Style does not necessarily equal award-winning design. It’s all about the different elements of comfort, décor and atmosphere coming together to create a whole, whether it’s with a cutting-edge contemporary ambience or sumptuous vintage interiors.

You need to feel that you belong; chairs, music and lighting shouldn’t be too hard or too soft; and good-looking crockery and polished wine glasses are vital. Décor and design is also key, whether the effect is glamorous, off-beat, classic or sophisticated urban chic.

Over the next few months, we’ll be featuring galleries of the Boschendal Style Award nominees. The nominees and the ultimate winner will be chosen by Abigail Donnelly and the three anonymous judges.

The names of the Boschendal Style Award winner and the judges will be revealed at the Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards on 10 November 2013 at The Lookout at the V&A Waterfront. Tickets to the awards are on sale now.