2024 Luxe Restaurant Awards winners

Image: Supplied

The awards ceremony was a glittering affair, with culinary icons such as the critically acclaimed fine-dining chef James Gaag, culinary media personality The Lazy Makoti, and food entrepreneur Siba Mtongana in attendance. 

Among the evening’s highlights was the announcement of La Petite Colombe as the Restaurant of the Year and Callan Austin as Chef of the Year.

Chad Fourie, founder and chief judge of the Luxe Restaurant Awards, spoke to the significance of such accolades in celebrating and promoting culinary excellence. “The Luxe Restaurant Awards play a crucial role in recognising the outstanding talent within our vibrant culinary landscape,” said Fourie. 

Right: James Gaag. Image: Supplied.

“South Africa boasts some of the most innovative and skilled chefs in the world, and these awards not only honor their achievements but also inspire the next generation of culinary artists.”

The night also shone a spotlight on emerging talents and established icons alike, celebrating the diversity and dynamism of South Africa’s culinary landscape. 

Guests were treated to a sumptuous array of dishes, reflecting the rich tapestry of flavours that define the nation’s cuisine.

This year’s Luxe Restaurant Awards not only celebrated culinary excellence but also highlighted the industry’s resilience and innovation. 

Siba Mtongana. Image: Supplied.

Despite the challenges of recent years, the South African culinary community has continued to thrive, pushing the boundaries of creativity and quality.

As the evening drew to a close, attendees departed with a renewed sense of inspiration and camaraderie, looking forward to another year of culinary achievements. 

Full list of winners:

• African Restaurant of the Year: The Happy Uncles
• Bistro of the Year: Farro Restaurant
• Burger Joint of the Year: Zuney Wagyu
• Café of the Year: Hemelhuijs
• Casual Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: Post and Pepper
• Chef of the Year: Callan Austin
• Coffee Shop of the Year: Truth Coffee
• Contemporary Restaurant of the Year: Club Kloof
• Culinary Change Award: Wandile Mabaso
• Culinary Innovation Award: Rikku O'Donnchu                            
• Culinary Media Personality of the Year: Clement Pedro
• Culinary Rising Star Award: Matt Van Den Berg
• Family Restaurant of the Year: The Table at De Meye
• Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: Belly of the Beast
• Grillhouse of the Year: VUUR Restaurant
• Hidden Gem Award: Stefan's Restaurant at Erinvale Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Restaurant of the Year: Upper Union
• International Restaurant of the Year: Ouzeri
• Legacy Award: La Colombe
• Lifestyle Restaurant of the Year: Club Como
• New Restaurant of the Year: Mertia
• Pastry Chef of the Year: Jared Melamed
• People's Choice Award: Kolonaki Greek Kouzina
• Pioneer Award: James Gaag
• Pop-Up Restaurant of the Year: Chef Rikku at The Art of Duplicity
• Restaurant of the Year: La Petite Colombe
• Restobar of the Year: The 11th Floor
• Service Excellence Award: The Living Room
• Street Food Restaurant of the Year: The Siba Deli
• Supper Club of the Year: Tempo Luxury Restaurant 
• Sustainability Award: Salsify at the Roundhouse
• Wine Service Award: Keize Mumba