Cape Town’s favourite neighbourhood is bursting with lip-smacking flavour and this year’s V&A Waterfront Neighbourhood Awards proved it. Held at The Avenue events space on 1 October, the 2025 edition of the Neighbourhood Awards Culinary Triumphs at the V&A Waterfront Neighbourhood Awards 2025 make this precinct one of the city’s most loved dining destinations.
With more than 150 entries, this year’s awards shone a light on the people and passion behind some of the V&A’s most beloved restaurants, cafés and food brands – the dreamers and doers who pour their hearts into every plate, pastry and pour.
The sweet success of Wedgewood
The South African family-owned confectionery brand Wedgewood wowed judges with their Gifting & Hamper Emporium in the Union Castle Building, taking home Best Visual Merchandising and Best New or Revamped Store. Famous for handmade honey nougat, nougat biscuits and their pioneering nougat ice cream, the Emporium blends indulgence with artistry, sustainable sourcing and a flair for gifting.
Celebrating heritage at Seven Colours Eatery
At Battery Park, Seven Colours Eatery earned the Global Ambassador Award for championing South African heritage flavours. Founder Nolukhanyo Dube-Cele celebrates the ‘rainbow plates’ inspired by her mother and grandmothers’ Sunday tables. Her menu includes dishes that symbolise togetherness and pride.
Den Anker: a Waterfront institution
A fixture at the Waterfront for over 30 years, Den Anker took home the CEO Award and Most Engaged Tenant Award. The team was honoured for its deep community impact, from leading feeding schemes that have served more than 250 000 meals, to uplifting fellow tenants during challenging times. Culinary Triumphs at the V&A Waterfront Neighbourhood Awards 2025
COOKED: Heart and hospitality
Located inside the V&A’s bustling Watershed market, COOKED was named winner of the Food Service Excellence Award. From hand-rolled bagels and Lebanese flatbreads to silky hummus and the family’s 1893 cheesecake recipe, their mouthwatering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired menu reflects a philosophy grounded in care and connection.
‘I feel incredibly proud,’ says owner Lindy Levy. ‘It’s deeply heartwarming to witness the unwavering commitment of our COOKED Watershed team. The longevity of some of our staff speaks volumes about the strength of our working relationships and the mutual dedication, support and trust we’ve cultivated over time.’
When asked what she loves most about her work, her answer is simple: ‘It’s the sight of an empty plate and the smile of someone whose belly (and spirit) are full. Knowing I’ve helped create that moment is what makes every day meaningful.’
The Knysna Oyster Company: Fresh from the sea
Winner of the Retail Excellence Award, The Knysna Oyster Company offers a refined farm-to-fork seafood experience in a serene Waterfront setting. With sushi, oysters, wagyu burgers and a full bar, it’s become a go-to for locals and tourists craving ocean-fresh indulgence.
Marcel’s Frozen Yoghurt: A milestone moment
One of South Africa’s oldest and most loved frozen yoghurt brands, Marcel’s marked a major milestone with a 30-year tenancy award. Founded in Stellenbosch in 1989, Marcel’s is known for its probiotic-rich, gluten-free frozen yoghurt made with real dairy and natural flavours.
Receiving this award, says Retail Operations Manager, Lauren Momberg: ‘Is an incredibly proud and humbling moment. It’s validation of our mission to create moments of delight through quality, creativity and connection.’
A taste of community
Alongside the official judging panel, visitors to the V&A also had their say in who was named best of the best. From over 4 000 online ballots received, Spur won the People’s Choice Award for Best Eatery, an award decided purely by public voting.
Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront is home to a diverse and dynamic food ecosystem, and the 2025 Neighbourhood Awards shone a spotlight on the businesses driving innovation, excellence and growth in our precinct,’ says V&A Waterfront CEO David Green. ‘Their successes strengthen the Waterfront’s role as a global destination for world-class food and experiences.’
Culinary Triumphs at the V&A Waterfront Neighbourhood Awards 2025
For more information about the Culinary Triumphs at the V&A Waterfront Neighbourhood Awards 2025, visit https://awards.waterfront.co.za/
or visit V&A Waterfront visit: www.waterfront.co.za
