The South Africa Restaurant Awards 2025 lit up the luxurious Hotel Sky Sandton on Monday night. The ceremony celebrated the nation’s culinary stars in a dazzling ceremony.
Hosted by entrepreneur Jordan Kensington and media personality Nicole Watson, the event honoured chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals.
THE SOUTH AFRICAN RESTAURANT AWARDS
All these individuals have elevated South Africa’s food scene to global acclaim.
With over 950,000 votes cast by the public, the awards highlighted excellence across diverse categories, from fine dining to family-friendly establishments.
The evening was broadcast live on VooVix TV, bringing the glamour to millions of South Africans at home.
The awards showcased South Africa’s vibrant food culture, with winners representing innovation and mastery.
BEST CULINARY EXPERIENCE AT THE SOUTH AFRICAN RESTAURANT AWARDS
TANG Asian Restaurant & Bar in Sandton took home Best Culinary Experience 2025, while Cape Town’s Salsify was crowned Best Restaurant in Cape Town.
Moses Moloi earned the coveted Best Chef 2025 award, sponsored by Crispa Gold.
Nicole Watson captured the spirit of the evening. “This celebration is about recognising not only exceptional cuisine but also the people and experiences that shape our food culture.”
HEARTFELT TRIBUTES
The ceremony featured heartfelt tributes and moments of joy as winners were announced. Among them:
- Mamasamba (Rosebank): Awarded Best Hospitality 2025 for its outstanding service.
- Golden Hour: Named Best New Restaurant 2025, showcasing fresh innovation.
- Sin + Tax: Secured Best Bar 2025, proving its mixology prowess.
- MasterChef South Africa and Expresso Culinary Hotline: Shared honours for Best Cooking Show 2025, inspiring home cooks nationwide.
Jordan Kensington emphasised the importance of food as an art form. “Tonight is about celebrating creativity and passion in every dish served across this country.”
THE REGIONAL CHAMPIONS AT THE SOUTH AFRICAN RESTAURANT AWARDS
The awards celebrated top restaurants from each province:
- Eastern Cape: Muse Restaurant (Port Elizabeth)
- Western Cape: Salsify at the Roundhouse (Camps Bay)
- KwaZulu-Natal: The Livingroom at Summerhill Estate (Durban)
- Northern Cape: Klein Jan
- Gauteng: Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery
These regional winners reflect South Africa’s culinary diversity, from coastal flavours to hearty inland dishes.
The awards also recognised emerging talent and groundbreaking concepts.
THE GOLDEN HOUR
Golden Hour’s win as Best New Restaurant highlighted bold ideas shaping South Africa’s dining landscape. Meanwhile, Tempo in Sandton earned Best Restaurant in Sandton, showcasing local excellence.
Sara Kensington, Partnerships Director of the World Restaurant Awards Group, shared her pride. “We are thrilled to honour South Africa’s culinary community. Their dedication inspires us all.”
The South Africa Restaurant Awards continue to elevate local talent on a global stage.
RISING STARS
With public voting driving recognition, these accolades celebrate not only established icons but also rising stars in the industry.
As the evening closed with applause and cheers, attendees left inspired by the creativity and commitment behind every plate served across South Africa.
From fine dining to casual eateries, this year’s winners remind us why South African cuisine is among the world’s most exciting culinary scenes.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SOUTH AFRICAN RESTAURANT AND WHY DO YOU ENJOY DINING THERE?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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