FESTIVAL CURATOR
South African-born chef Duncan Welgemoed sharpened his craft in London’s Michelin-starred kitchens – including The Goose and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – before relocating to Adelaide.
After leading Bistro Dom to acclaim (Australia’s Hottest Restaurant in SA, Chef of the Year 2013), he opened Africola in 2014: a raucous, African-inspired eatery on East Terrace renowned for its wood-fired, unapologetic style and vibrant atmosphere.
The award-winning chef has been involved with Tasting Australia since 2016, joined as Festival Curator in 2026 and will continue for the festival’s 20th edition.
Duncan is known for blending South African heritage with seasonality, sustainability and lively design. His book Cooking with Fire, celebrating barbecue and open‑flame cooking, was released in 2024 and followed his acclaimed 2020 debut Africola: Slow food, fast words, cult chef.
