Eating out in Johannesburg is not only a culinary event, it’s a cultural experience too. For more than 100 years, people from all corners of the earth have flocked to Johannesburg to seek their fortunes in the City of Gold. This diversity of population is reflected in the eateries – whether your taste buds call for African, Asian, Italian, seafood, steaks, designer street food or anything in-between, you will be sure to find it on a Johannesburg plate.
Simply wander along the restaurant strips of Parkhurst, Braamfontein, Maboneng, Cyrildene and Norwood, or the malls in Sandton, Hyde Park and Rosebank until you find something that takes your fancy. Of course, heading out to Soweto is an absolute must for township vibes and authentic African cuisine.There are many notable dining experiences on offer: try the avo ritz at the Rand Club (built in 1886); enjoy tapas with a view of the city at Randlords in Braamfontein; sample the innovative cuisine on offer at DW eleven-13; or experience the culinary taste sensations on offer from chef David Higgs at five hundred restaurant the Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa.
If you’re looking for a bit of jazz with your meal, try the Sophiatown Bar Lounge in Newtown, The Orbit in Braamfontein or Katzy’s in Rosebank.
Visitors to the city will be pleased to know that Johannesburg offers a number of African restaurants, including Little Addis (for amazing Ethiopian fare, as the name suggests) and Moyo’s. For Mozambican/Portuguese cuisine you might want to try the Troyeville Hotel or Restaurante Parreirinha, while for the best Chinese dishes in town, visit Derrick Avenue in Cyrildene. Fordsburg is the place for authentic Indian cuisine – many of the restaurants in this predominantly Indian area cater for vegetarians and vegans.
Johannesburg is also known for its fantastic steakhouses and seafood restaurants – try Wombles, The Grillhouse and the Local Grill for super steaks; or the Ocean Basket and Fishmonger for seafood.
Wherever you are in Johannesburg, one this is for certain – great dining is guaranteed.
