TASTE MASTER PROFESSIONAL MAKES ITS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DEBUT ON SABC 2

CAPE TOWN, MAY 2026, Taste Master Professional, the inaugural professional edition of the SAFTA award-winning Taste Master series, is coming to SABC 2 this May and it’s unlike anything the franchise has done before.

The series brings together ten of the country’s most compelling culinary talent – trained chefs at various stages of their professional journeys, united by ambition, skill, and a drive to prove themselves at the highest level. They will compete across 12 episodes in a pressure-cooker environment technical mastery, creative vision, and composure under fire will be put to the test.

The winner will take home a prize valued at more than R800,000 including a coveted role at the new Taste Master Kitchen and Deli in Paarl. This isn’t just a title, it’s the next chapter of a culinary career.

A LEAD JUDGE OF EXCEPTIONAL CALIBRE

Taste Master Professional is led by one of South Africa’s most celebrated culinary authorities, award-winning chef Bertus Basson. Renowned for his modern, deeply considered approach to traditional South African cuisine, Bertus has built a career grounded in authenticity, exceptional local produce, and the art of storytelling through food. From his acclaimed restaurants to his broad industry recognition, he has become one of the most respected voices in the South African food landscape and brings that formidable expertise to the judging table each week.

Joining Bertus throughout the season is a rotating panel of acclaimed guest judges drawn from the heart of the South African culinary world including chefs, restaurateurs, and food authorities whose expertise adds depth and perspective to every episode.

“Taste Master Professional represents a defining moment for the Taste Master franchise. We have always believed that this country’s culinary talent is world-class, and this series exists to prove exactly that. For the first time, we are giving South Africa’s professional chefs the platform they truly deserve: a stage as ambitious and extraordinary as they are.” Patience Stevens, Managing Director, Cardova Productions

Taste Master Professional premieres Sunday, 31 May at 7PM on SABC 2, with new episodes every Sunday. Repeat broadcasts air Saturdays at 4:30PM and Sundays at 3:30PM on SABC 2.

Taste Master Professional is brought to you by Clover South Africa.

For more information, visit www.thetastemaster.co.za and follow #TheTasteMasterSA across social media.

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