Nathan Clarke

Nathan Clarke, head chef at The Test Kitchen Fledgelings, was named the 2025 Eat Out Rising Star — honouring exceptional talent and leadership. Born in Cape Town and raised in a home marked by adversity, he began his culinary path in 2013 as a sculler at The Test Kitchen. Under the mentorship of Luke Dale Roberts, he steadily advanced through the ranks. In 2021, he was appointed head chef at Fledgelings, a role that aligned with his passion for mentorship. The judges said: "In him, we see the bright future of South African food."