On 20 November 2016, at the 2016 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards, we’ll announce the 2016 Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year. The award recognises an outstanding chef working in South Africa, but what makes a winning chef?

Chef Scot Kirton. Photo by Jan Ras.

Last year’s winner, Scot Kirton (executive chef at La Colombe in Constantia) impressed the judges by offering diners a unique, sincere experience. “It’s very special to see Scot’s sincere personality shine on the menu, on the plate, just everywhere,” said chief judge, Abigail Donnelly.

“Every item on the plate was on point and perfectly cooked,” said 2015 judge, Jackie Cameron.

One of the dishes at La Colombe. Photo by Micky Hoyle.

This year, the award will be judged again by Eat Out editor Abigail Donnelly, along with David Higgs, a former Top 10 chef, and Carianne Wilkinson of Silwood School of Cookery. Over the past few months, the judges have dined all over the country in their search for South Africa’s best restaurants and chefs.

“I look at things from a technical point of view, from a presentational point of view and from a flavour point of view,” said Carianne Wilkinson. “It has been amazing – I didn’t leave a thing on any plate!”

“I learnt a hell of a lot,” said David Higgs of the whole judging experience. “There was a lovely simplicity to the food, which I really appreciated.”

Stay tuned to Eat Out on 20 November to find out who wins the Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year

About the sponsor

Distributed in over 130 countries on five continents, S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Mineral waters are known for their distinct taste, they represent excellence, and Italian style. Both are synonymous with gourmet food and wine culture and are renowned for their support of emerging and established chef talent. The Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year Award is one such initiative, recognising an outstanding chef working in South Africa.