Vanessa Marx

Vanessa Marx is an award winning South African born chef with diverse international experience. Trained at the prestigious Institute of Culinary Arts (ICA) in Stellenbosch, South Africa – Vanessa completed her apprenticeship under now-famous MasterChef SA judge Pete Goffe-Wood, before moving abroad to the UK and Europe to further her experience and broaden her inspiration in London.

Vanessa prides herself with a sustainable and ethical approach to food. An Ambassador for SASSI (South African Sustainable Seafood Institute), she actions her beliefs. The philosophy that she brings to the table is one of using local and seasonal produce, as well as creating dishes that speak to the seasons.

Moving back to South Africa, she worked passionately on the creation of Dear Me Restaurant and developed a 9 course food and wine pairing menu at The White Room. Vanessa’s undeniable skill in the South African market earned her the first Rising Star Eat Out Award in 2013, followed by the placement of Dear Me in the Top 20 restaurants in South Africa the year after.

Currently based in Johannesburg, Vanessa works across the country with premium brands such as Nederburg Wines and clothing brand Trenery on private events and appearances. She also runs a food truck and catering business with her husband, Mark.

With a string of accolades and media hype behind her name, Vanessa Marx is a chef who is leaving her mark on the food and beverage industry, one plate at a time.