From sculler to Rising Star: Chef Nathan Clarke wins at Eat Out Awards
Initially, Clarke dreamed of becoming a civil engineer, but his path took an unexpected turn in 2013 when a friend invited him to work as a sculler in a test kitchen.
Chef Nathan Clarke wins Rising Star prize at Eat Out Awards / Instagram: ttkfledgelings
CapeTalk's Pippa Hudson interviews Chef Nathan Clarke, the Executive Chef at The Test Kitchen Fledgelings.
Listen below:
The 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards took centre stage at the Baxter Theatre Centre in Cape Town on Monday, 31 March, on an evening that shimmered with culinary brilliance.
The star-studded ceremony brought together South Africa's most renowned chefs, restaurateurs, and industry figures to celebrate the nation's exceptional gastronomic talent.
Among the prestigious winners was Chef Nathan Clarke, who was honoured with the coveted Rising Star award, marking a standout moment in his career.
RELATED: 2025 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards: Here are the winners!
"It hasn't sunken in yet; a lot of excitement still, still can't believe it."
- Chef Nathan Clarke, Executive Chef – The Test Kitchen Fledgelings
Born and raised in Mitchells Plain, Clarke reflects on a challenging upbringing, with both his father and mother largely absent from his life.
Despite facing financial hardships, he persevered, earning his matric certificate and completing courses along the way.
Initially, Clarke dreamed of becoming a civil engineer, but his path took an unexpected turn in 2013 when a friend invited him to work as a sculler in a test kitchen.
After just seven months in the kitchen, he found his true calling as a chef, and the rest, as they say, is award-winning history.
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.