Eat Out has announced its panel of judges for the first time ever

The Eat Out Restaurant Awards are making a return this year after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. This was announced in late 2021 when Eat Out uncovered that Abigail Donnelly would lead the team of judges. Who are the judges? Eat Out has revealed the panel for the very first time.  They are Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, chef Karen Dudley, sommelier Moses Magwaza, food activist and cookbook author Mokgadi Itsweng, and food writer and broadcaster Anna Trapido.

Abigail says, “Each judge has a distinct perspective and valuable expertise. I chose Jan Hendrik because, as a South African, I admire him and the industry does too. He will bring a unique South African philosophy that will inspire young chefs. Karen understands the industry like no other – she has walked and talked about every bit of it. As an award-winning sommelier, Moses will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our South African wine culture. Mokgadi’s understanding and respect for local suppliers – and her belief in sustainability and teaching where our food comes from – is beyond compare. And Anna has an incredible knowledge of South African food, people and ingredients, which I find totally inspiring.”

To find out more about each judge, head to Eat Out.