The 2024 Luxe Restaurant Awards celebrated South Africa’s top culinary talents, with La Petite Colombe named Restaurant of the Year and Callan Austin honoured as Chef of the Year.
Western Cape, South Africa (23 May 2024) – This week, the picturesque Monument House in Franschhoek was the stunning backdrop for the 2024 Luxe Restaurant Awards, a dazzling celebration of South Africa’s finest culinary talent.
The Luxe Awards is a prestigious event that highlights excellence in South Africa’s hospitality industry, showcasing the country’s finest establishments, services, and experiences. Established to promote and acknowledge exceptional contributions to tourism and hospitality, the Luxe Awards has quickly become a symbol of excellence, coveted by businesses and individuals across the vibrant hospitality landscape.
Known for its star-studded guest list, the event did not disappoint, bringing together celebrities from the gastronomic world for an unforgettable evening of recognition and revelry.
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of La Petite Colombe as the Restaurant of the Year. Located in the heart of Franschhoek, La Petite Colombe has consistently impressed with its innovative cuisine and impeccable service, making it a deserving recipient of this prestigious accolade.
Callan Austin was honoured as Chef of the Year, reflecting his exceptional culinary prowess and dedication to his craft. Austin’s creative vision and commitment to excellence have set a new benchmark in the industry, earning him this well-deserved recognition.
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 recognizing the outstanding talent within our vibrant culinary landscape,” said Fourie. “South Africa boasts some of the most innovative and skilled chefs in the world, and these awards not only honour their achievements but also inspire the next generation of culinary artists.”
The night also celebrated emerging talents and established icons alike, showcasing the diversity and dynamism of South Africa’s culinary landscape.
This year’s Luxe Restaurant Awards celebrated culinary excellence and also highlighted the industry’s resilience and innovation. 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. The 2024 Luxe Restaurant Awards once again affirmed its status as the pinnacle of culinary recognition in South Africa, setting the stage for future gastronomic triumphs.
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
The Luxe Restaurant Awards have once again shone a light on the incredible talent within South Africa’s culinary scene, and we can’t wait to see what the next year will bring.
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