The 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards lit up Cape Town’s Baxter Theatre Centre with a dazzling celebration of South Africa’s finest culinary talents! This prestigious event, known as the Oscars of the food world, honoured the country’s top restaurants, and Stellenbosch once again proved why it’s a foodie capital, with an impressive lineup of winners.
A Three-Star Triumph
Leading the charge for Stellenbosch was Dusk, earning a coveted three-star rating! Renowned for its boundary-pushing flavours, immersive dining experience, and theatrical flair, Dusk continues to redefine fine dining in South Africa. If you haven’t had the chance to indulge in their culinary artistry yet — this is your sign!
Two-Star Excellence
A round of applause for Clara’s Barn, MERTIA, Rust en Vrede, and The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreira, all of whom secured two stars! From innovative farm-to-table cuisine to world-class wine pairings, these restaurants embody Stellenbosch’s commitment to gastronomic excellence.
One-Star Standouts
Earning one star each, Eike, Hōseki, Post & Pepper, Rykaart’s at Longridge Wine Estate, Spek & Bone, The Table at De Meye, and Vuur Goose Island have cemented their place among the country’s top dining destinations. Whether it’s modern interpretations of South African flavours, intimate vineyard settings, or wood-fired magic, these restaurants offer unforgettable culinary journeys.
Special Awards
A special congrats to Bertus Basson, the visionary behind Eike, Spek & Bone, CHORUS, and Clara’s Barn, who won this year’s Trailblazer Award! And hats off to MERTIA, the well-deserved winner of the Service Excellence Award — no surprise there!
A Toast to Stellenbosch
The Cape Winelands’ dining scene is thriving, and these awards reaffirm Stellenbosch’s status as a must-visit hub for food lovers. Huge congratulations to all the winners — your passion, creativity, and dedication continue to elevate South African cuisine to new heights!