We find ourselves privileged to work alongside some of South Africa’s most inspiring culinary leaders, chefs who don’t just cook but tell stories through their food. One such visionary is Chef Christo Pretorius, Executive Chef at The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa, whose philosophy perfectly captures the evolving spirit of South African luxury hospitality.
Over the past few years, Chef Christo has witnessed and helped shape a remarkable shift in the fine dining landscape. “Fine dining is no longer just about technique, it’s about storytelling, provenance, and emotion,” he explains. South Africa’s most prestigious kitchens are moving toward immersive, narrative-driven experiences where every plate tells a tale of place, heritage, and innovation.
Hyper-Localism and Indigenous Ingredients
One of the most exciting trends redefining the industry is hyper-localism, the celebration of indigenous ingredients and the people behind them. Chef Christo and his team at The 12 Apostles work hand in hand with local farmers, foragers, and artisans to showcase the best of South Africa’s biodiversity. From biodynamic grains like sorghum and wheat koring to coastal seafood sourced ethically from Saldanha Bay and Struisbaai, every element of the menu reflects a deep connection to the land.
“Sustainability isn’t just a philosophy, it’s a daily practice,” says Christo. By sourcing locally and seasonally, his team reduces their carbon footprint while creating menus that are deeply rooted in place, proof that local is indeed lekker.
Technology Meets Tradition
While his food draws on memory, heritage, and nostalgia, Chef Christo also embraces cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability. At The 12 Apostles, AI-powered tools like Winnow are transforming how kitchens manage food waste. Using smart cameras to track and analyze leftovers, the system provides data-driven insights that help the team craft “no waste” products such as chutneys, jams, and infused oils from offcuts and peels.
Technology is also reshaping staff training and operations. With digital platforms like Mapal, The 12 Apostles ensures consistent performance and skill development among its kitchen brigade, proving that the future of hospitality lies at the intersection of tradition and technology.
Global Influence, Local Soul
South African chefs like Christo continue to take cues from global culinary trends such as fermentation, plant-based dining, and artistic plating, but always ground their creations in authentic South African flavour. A French-inspired New Year’s Eve menu may feature Kalahari beef or Cape crayfish, blending international finesse with local soul.
And yet, for all the sophistication, his roots remain proudly South African. Whether it’s a risotto with grilled calamari that evolves with the seasons or the smoky, soulful simplicity of a braai, Christo’s cooking is as much about people and place as it is about flavour and finesse.
The People Behind the Plate
Hospitality, Christo reminds us, is about more than food, it’s about connection. “The restaurant industry needs people, and people need to eat, we go hand in hand.” That belief shines through in everything he does, from his team’s meticulous attention to detail to the warmth of the guest experience.
As suppliers, Core Catering Supplies takes immense pride in supporting chefs like Christo, professionals who demand excellence, sustainability, and innovation in every aspect of their craft. Whether sourcing high-performance kitchen tools or eco-conscious catering equipment, we share the same commitment to quality and consistency that drives South Africa’s top culinary destinations.
A Culinary Legacy Rooted in Memory
Christo’s food philosophy can be summed up simply:
“My goal as a chef is to create lasting memories. I want my guests to sit at Azure, look at the view, smell the ocean, taste our dishes, and create some amazing memories for themselves, and I’m proud to be part of that.”
It’s this blend of heart, heritage, and forward-thinking innovation that makes chefs like Christo Pretorius such valued members of South Africa’s hospitality community, and why Core Catering Supplies loves having clients like him. Together, we’re helping to shape a future where South African hospitality isn’t just world-class, it’s world-defining.
