South West chefs & venues star in WA Good Food Guide Awards

The state’s finest food and hospitality talents gathered at Northbridge’s Rechabite Hall last week for the WA Good Food Guide (WAGFG) Awards.

This annual event recognises the passionate people and places creating exceptional dining experiences across WA, from cosy neighbourhood spots to innovative fine dining destinations.

The South West celebrated a stellar night, with four prestigious awards given to exceptional venues and chefs throughout our region.

DE’SENDENT – NEW RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Opening its doors in January 2024, de’sendent has quickly established itself as a standout in Margaret River’s evening dining scene.

Chef and co-owner Evan Hayter said the award reflects de’sendent’s vision, which upholds an elevated farm-to-table philosophy that he and co-owner Ann Spencer place at the heart of their dining experience.

“Our incredible team and customers are central to de’sendent’s success – our team and customers. This award acknowledges the exceptional dining standard we strive for each day,” Evan said.

Spencer also celebrated the region’s strong showing at the awards.

“We want to acknowledge the contribution of our fellow award winners. This year’s solid representation from Margaret River demonstrates that our region is becoming known as one of Australia’s best regions for dining – not just for wine.”

VOYAGER ESTATE – REGIONAL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

One of the South West’s most respected fine-dining destinations, Voyager Estate continues to evolve and excel.

The judges noted the restaurant’s dedication to organic vineyard practices and hyper-local ingredients.

“Receiving the Best Regional Restaurant and three stars from the WAGFG is a massive achievement for the team,” Head Chef Travis Crane said.

“While this award is certainly a nice feather in the cap for any chef, this award isn’t about just me.”

“This achievement recognises our entire team’s dedication – from our viticulture and winery staff to our farmers, our knowledgeable Sommelier Claire, our passionate front-of-house, and our creative kitchen team who craft beautiful food paired perfectly with our wines.

“It’s safe to say we’re all brimming with pride and excited to continue creating memories for our guests.”

CAMERON JONES, VASSE FELIX – REGIONAL CHEF OF THE YEAR

Over the past two years, diners at Vasse Felix have experienced Chef Cameron Jones’s incredible gift for gastronomy, as he continues to push culinary boundaries with his unique creative genius.

Awards host Mike Bennie and Alexandra Carlton praised his “decidedly modern riot of flavours,” noting how perfectly he balances creativity with the winery restaurant’s essential mission.

“Receiving the WAGFG’s 2025 Regional Chef of the Year award hasn’t fully sunk in yet, but I couldn’t be happier,” Cameron said.

“At times, it can be easy to second-guess yourself, this award has helped assure me that we’re doing something right. I’m very fortunate to work with a team of truly passionate and talented people.

“Countless people have guided me along the way, and my goal is to be that person for someone else.”

LAURA KOENTJORO HARDING – YOUNG CHEF OF THE YEAR

After winning the Breakthrough Talent Award with Si Paradiso in 2021, Harding took her talents south, joining Busselton’s famed Alberta Kitchen.

Honing her skills, she became the head chef at Banksia Tavern.

She’s perfected a menu that flawlessly balances refined pub classics with innovative dishes, “showcasing wonderful use of local bounty”.

This rising talent is clearly just getting started.

TOP 100 AND STAR RECIPIENTS

Beyond the major awards, several South West venues earned coveted spots in the Top 100 list, with star ratings recognising distinct levels of fine dining achievement.

Three Stars indicate venues at the pinnacle of their craft.

Two Stars mark destinations worth crossing town for – where every time will be a great time.

One Star celebrates venues with notable elements of sparkle, polish, vision and execution.

Three Stars:

Two Stars:

One Star:

Securing a spot in the Top 100:

With its pristine land and sea offering endless inspiration, WA continues to climb the culinary radar as a world-class dining destination.

Congratulations to all the 2025 WA Good Food Guide winners – each contributing distinctive flavour and flair to creating extraordinary food experiences that place our region on the must-visit-foodie map.