Durban chef scoops 2nd consecutive Eat Out Top Chef win

Durban is firmly in the culinary spotlight following the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, after Johannes Richter of The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate was named Chef of the Year.  

Marking his second consecutive win, Richter’s recognition is one of the evening’s most anticipated honours, and it signals Durban’s growing influence as a serious dining destination for food lovers across South Africa.  

"His exceptional talent and leadership continue to inspire the industry," said Abigail Donnelly, Eat Out’s Culinary Director, who further stated, “The Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards are a celebration of the incredible talent, passion and dedication that make South Africa’s food scene so extraordinary. It’s about more than just the food – it’s about the people, the stories and the community that bring it all to life.

"This year, we are thrilled to see the number of starred restaurants grow to 66, reflecting the continued evolution and excellence of our culinary landscape. Congratulations to all the winners on their remarkable achievements.” 

Durban Eat out winners

Durban and greater eThekwini delivered a strong showing across various categories:

• Chef of the Year: Johannes Richter (The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate, Pinetown)
• Three stars: The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate (Pinetown)
• Two stars: Meraki by Charlie Lakin (Hillcrest)
• One star: The Chefs’ Table (Umhlanga)
• One star: Tyler’s (eMdloti)
• Rural Green Star Award: The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate 

These awards come amid a strong showing nationally, with Cape Town claiming the lion’s share of awards. FYN was crowned Restaurant of the Year for its refined fusion of Japanese technique and South African identity - this adds to the growing list of accolades for the restaurant, backed by chefs Peter Tempelhoff (also behind Sushiya and Ramenhead at Time Out Market Cape Town), Ashley Moss, and service and beverage director Jennifer Hugé. 

At the same time, Ryan Cole of Salsify secured the respect and admiration of his peers after being awarded the Chefs’ Chef award for the year.

While Cape Town is seen as a definitive foodie capital, winning the bulk of this year's awards, Durban’s standout moment with these top ratings signals a shift for the city as a place to savour some of SA's distinctive food culture.

See the full list of winners via eatout.co.za.