Chef Maseehah ‘Messi’ Karodia crowned SA’s ‘The Taste Master’ 2026 winner

by Chumasande Matiwane

Chef Maseehah ‘Messi’ Karodia has been crowned the winner of The Taste Master Professional 2026, taking the title after a closely contested grand finale broadcast on SABC last night, 16 August 2026.

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Maseehah Karodia tastes victory

The official Taste Master Professional social media accounts confirmed Messi as the winner shortly after the finale, describing the champion’s journey as one marked by “bold flavour combinations” and confident culinary choices. 

Messi emerged victorious after facing fellow finalists Sasha and Ally in the final challenge.

According to the official The Taste Master Professional website, the three finalists were tasked with creating a final family-style menu, with chef Aren Pollack joining the judging panel for the decisive cook. 

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The 2026 competition marked a significant new chapter for the popular South African food reality franchise.  

Unlike other editions, The Taste Master Professional brought together 10 professional chefs from across South Africa, with contestants competing in demanding culinary challenges under the guidance of acclaimed chef Bertus Basson and a rotating panel of guest judges.

The winner, in this case Chef Messi, received a prize package valued at more than R800,000, receiving a professional opportunity at the new Taste Master Kitchen and Deli in Paarl, Western Cape. 

For viewers, Messi’s victory represents the culmination of a season designed to identify South Africa’s next culinary talent while creating a direct pathway from television competition into the professional kitchen. 

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