Season 1
13 episodes · 2026
1The Breakfast Challenge
In the season premiere, our chefs form two teams to tackle the most important meal of the day. Led by one contestant as the head chef, each team prepares a menu of breakfast items to impress the judges and stamp their mark on the competition.
2The Pastry Challenge
The competition gets real in the first elimination challenge of the season. Guest judge Zizi Matikitiki joins judge, Bertus Basson at the judging table, bringing specialist expertise in sweet pies and tarts to an already high-stakes challenge. The contestants are tasked to create a single-serving pastry - savory or sweet - entirely from scratch.
3The Sandwich Challenge
Nine chefs remain, and this week a deli favorite takes center stage. Contestants are put to the test as they transform artisan loaves into a five-item menu packed with flavor, creativity, technique and teamwork. Who will rise to the occasion?
4The South African Flavors Challenge
A celebration of South African flavors. An elimination with everything at stake. The bottom four contestants must prove they can honor the dishes that inspire us while bringing their own creative perspective to the plate. Only three chefs will move one step closer to the title.
6The Pizza Challenge
Two pizzas. Four chefs. One last chance. The elimination kitchen returns as four chefs battle to keep their place in the competition, creating two menu-worthy pizzas inspired by Judge Bertus Basson’s own restaurant, Die Kantien. With guest judge Michael Fuller joining the panel, every base, every topping, and every decision counts.
7The Taste Temptation Challenge
A feast for the eyes. A test for the chefs. With seven chefs remaining, visual impact takes centre stage. Guided by guest judge Chef Marthinus Ferreira, they’ll need to master colour, texture, composition and flavour to create dishes no one can resist ordering.
