FYN Wins Big at the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards

South Africa’s culinary elite gathered in style at the Baxter Theatre Centre on 23 March to celebrate excellence at the prestigious Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards 2026. The evening honoured the chefs and restaurants shaping the country’s dynamic food scene.

FYN Takes Top Honour

The biggest moment of the night saw FYN crowned Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant of the Year. Known for its refined fusion of Japanese techniques and South African flavours, FYN impressed judges with its precision, creativity, and balance.

According to Abigail Donnelly, Eat Out’s culinary director, the restaurant delivered a “world-class dining experience” that stood above the rest.

Celebrating Culinary Talent

Another major highlight was Johannes Richter, who secured the Eat Out Woolworths Financial Services Chef of the Year award for the second consecutive year—solidifying his reputation as one of the country’s leading culinary talents.

The peer-voted Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chefs’ Chef Award went to Ryan Cole, reflecting the deep respect he commands within the industry.

Donnelly emphasised the significance of the evening, noting that the awards celebrate not just food, but the stories, people, and passion behind South Africa’s thriving culinary community.

The Eat Out Star-Rating System

The Eat Out star-rating system remains the benchmark for dining excellence in South Africa. Restaurants are awarded one, two, or three stars based on a rigorous evaluation process conducted over eight months by anonymous judges.

• Three Stars (90–100): The pinnacle of dining excellence
  Notable winners include La Colombe, La Petite Colombe, MERTIA, Pier, and Salsify at the Roundhouse.
• Two Stars (80–89): Exceptional quality
  Standouts include Dusk, Fermier, and Wolfgat.
• One Star (70–79): A mark of distinction
  Recognised restaurants include Cyra, Marble Restaurant Johannesburg, Saint Restaurant, and Qunu.

This year saw an impressive total of 66 starred restaurants, highlighting the continued growth and innovation within the local dining scene.

Spotlight on Sustainability and Special Awards

A major evolution in this year’s awards was the introduction of Green Star categories, recognising sustainability leaders in the industry:

• Rural Green Star: The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate
• Urban Green Star: Dusk
• Emerging Green Star: Terrarium

These awards highlight restaurants making meaningful strides in responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and sustainable operations.

Rising Stars and Industry Icons

The future of South African cuisine looks bright, with Aren Pollack of Embarc winning the Eat Out Rising Star Award.

Meanwhile, legendary winemaker Ken Forrester received the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising decades of influence and dedication to hospitality.

Other notable winners included:

• Best New Restaurant: Amura
• Best Destination Restaurant: The Table at De Meye
• Service Excellence Award: MERTIA

A Celebration of Community and Excellence

The 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards once again showcased the strength, diversity, and creativity of South Africa’s food industry. From established icons to rising stars, the event celebrated a shared passion for excellence that continues to elevate the country’s global culinary reputation.

With exciting developments ahead—including Eat Out’s move to News24—the future of South African dining looks brighter than ever.