I am Aren Pollack, a 25 year old South African chef, restaurateur and television personality. I see myself as my own organisation, with my work spanning restaurants, television, mentorship and culinary development.

I became Head Chef of Embarc in Johannesburg and, within my first year, helped lead the restaurant to significant national recognition, while personally receiving the 2026 Eat Out Rising Star Award. I am currently Head Judge on Taste Master Junior South Africa and am developing my next restaurant at Ridgeback Wine Farm in Paarl.

What makes me a rising star is the pace and breadth of my career at a young age, combined with my focus on leadership, developing people and bringing a modern, approachable perspective to South African food and hospitality.


I believe I was nominated for my rapid progression, leadership and impact at a young age, leading Embarc to national recognition while championing South African talent, creativity and hospitality.


My vision is to become a leader who not only creates great food, but creates opportunities for others. I want to help build a South African hospitality industry that is ambitious, globally respected and proudly rooted in our people, produce and culture. I want to use my platform to mentor young talent, create meaningful careers and show that South African chefs can lead on the world stage while staying true to where we come from.

Growing up, I never really felt that I fitted into a traditional path. I had a burning desire to make a difference in my life and knew early on that I wanted to do something different and build a career on my own terms. Over the last few years, I’ve turned that belief into reality, progressing from demanding kitchens in South Africa and Europe to leading a restaurant at just 23 years old.

By time I was 24, I was fortunate to receive multiple major recognitions, including the Eat Out Rising Star Award, while leading Embarc to Luxe Contemporary Restaurant of the Year, a Luxe People’s Choice Award and an Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards star. I’ve also stepped onto television as Head Judge of Taste Master Junior SA and, at 25, I’m opening my first restaurant at Ridgeback Wine Farm in Paarl. I hope my journey inspires others to embrace what makes them different, take risks and have the courage to create their own path.

Recreational activities

Running, weightlifting, playing guitar, cooking, traveling and exploring new cuisines