SecretEATS is thrilled to announce that its Events Director for South Africa, Darren Meltz, has been recognised as a recipient of the esteemed Forty Under 40 Africa Award 2025. This accolade celebrates young leaders across the continent who have made significant contributions to their industries, and Darren’s inclusion underscores his innovative impact on South Africa’s secret dining and experiential culinary landscape.
As the visionary leader behind SecretEATS South Africa, Darren has redefined fine dining by orchestrating exclusive, invitation-only dinner events in extraordinary and undisclosed locations. These gatherings seamlessly blend gourmet cuisine, storytelling, and an element of surprise, offering guests unparalleled culinary adventures that connect food enthusiasts with hidden gastronomic treasures.
Darren’s journey with SecretEATS began when he first connected with the brand as a photographer, drawn to its unique blend of culinary adventure, storytelling, and secret locations. As his passion for the experience grew, so did his role. When SecretEATS sought an exceptional leader to oversee operations in South Africa, Darren was a natural fit. His deep appreciation for food, creativity, and guest experience made him an integral part of the team, ensuring the brand’s continued success in South Africa.
Since the very first SecretEATS dinner in March 2013 in Llandudno, the South African chapter has flourished, celebrating its 12-year anniversary in 2025. Under Darren’s leadership, SecretEATS South Africa has not only remained true to its roots but has continued to grow, evolve, and excite.
Each year, the team partners with top chefs, unearths hidden gems, and curates unforgettable dining adventures that redefine luxury and exclusivity. With Darren at the helm, SecretEATS has also expanded into private, intimate dining experiences tailored for small gatherings, romantic celebrations, and proposals—while preparing to launch bespoke travel experiences that blend South Africa’s rich culture, breathtaking locations, and world-class cuisine.
His leadership has allowed SecretEATS to thrive in South Africa, while also enabling the team to focus on successful international expansion. The brand has since launched to great acclaim in Vietnam, with new experiences set to debut in London and Zurich in 2025.
Beyond SecretEATS, Darren is a multifaceted creative force. He is the Editor-In-Chief of More Than Food Magazine, a platform that celebrates food, travel, and culture, further solidifying his expertise in the world of gastronomy and storytelling. As an actor, writer, lecturer, foodie, and photographer, Darren brings a unique artistic vision to every SecretEATS experience, ensuring that no two dinners are ever the same and that each guest leaves with a story worth telling.
“Being named one of Africa’s Forty Under 40 is an incredible honour,” says Darren Meltz. “SecretEATS has always been about crafting magical moments around the dinner table, and I’m immensely grateful to be part of a movement that’s transforming how people experience food in South Africa and beyond. This award is a testament to the dedication of our talented chefs, partners, and guests who make each SecretEATS event extraordinary.”
Beyond his role at SecretEATS, Darren is a lecturer, imparting knowledge and passion to the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals. His commitment to education and innovation has solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.
“Darren’s passion, creativity, and vision for SecretEATS South Africa are truly inspiring,” says Gregory Zeleny, founder of SecretEATS. “His dedication to crafting one-of-a-kind culinary experiences that surprise and delight has truly taken the South African culinary scene to new heights. We are so proud of him and this accomplishment – this moment of recognition – of our simple mission of bringing people closer together through food.”
This award marks a significant milestone for Darren and SecretEATS as they continue to expand their presence, bringing hidden gourmet experiences to more food lovers worldwide.
