Best Restaurants in Johannesburg; Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is known for its diverse culture and cuisine. The city offers a variety of dining options ranging from street food to fine dining. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best restaurants to visit. In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best restaurants in Johannesburg to help you make an informed decision on where to dine.
The restaurants on this list have been carefully selected based on their exceptional food, service, and ambiance. From Indian to Portuguese cuisine, there is something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these restaurants are sure to provide a memorable dining experience. So without further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 best restaurants in Johannesburg.
Understanding Johannesburg’s Food Scene
Johannesburg’s food scene is as diverse as its population, with a wide range of local and international cuisines available throughout the city. From traditional African dishes to modern fusion cuisine, Johannesburg has something to offer for every palate.
One of the most unique aspects of Johannesburg’s food scene is its emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients. Many restaurants in the city source their ingredients from nearby farms and markets, ensuring that their dishes are fresh and environmentally friendly. This trend towards sustainable eating has also led to an increase in vegetarian and vegan options on many menus.
In addition to its commitment to local ingredients, Johannesburg is also home to a thriving street food scene. From food trucks to market stalls, the city’s streets are filled with vendors selling everything from traditional African snacks to international street food favorites.
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Johannesburg has plenty of high-end restaurants offering world-class cuisine. Many of these restaurants are located in the city’s trendy neighborhoods, such as Sandton and Rosebank, and offer stunning views of the city skyline.
Overall, Johannesburg’s food scene is a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage and diverse population. Whether you’re looking for traditional African dishes or modern fusion cuisine, Johannesburg has something to offer for every taste and budget.
Top 10 Best Restaurants
Johannesburg is a vibrant city with a diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional South African dishes or international cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Here are the top 10 best restaurants in Johannesburg for a delicious and memorable dining experience.
- DW Eleven-13 – This award-winning restaurant offers a contemporary twist on classic dishes. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest and most seasonal ingredients. The elegant and modern decor adds to the overall dining experience.
- Marble Restaurant – Located in the heart of Johannesburg, Marble Restaurant offers stunning rooftop views and a menu inspired by South African braai (barbecue) traditions. The restaurant is known for its wood-fired meats and seafood, as well as its extensive wine list.
- Che Argentine Grill – If you’re in the mood for some delicious grilled meats, Che Argentine Grill is the place to go. The restaurant offers a variety of cuts of beef, as well as other meats like lamb and chicken. The casual and relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual dinner with friends.
- Urbanologi – This trendy restaurant offers a unique and innovative dining experience. The menu features small plates with bold and creative flavor combinations. The restaurant is located in a converted brewery and has a modern and industrial feel.
- Momo Baohaus – For a taste of Asian-inspired street food, Momo Baohaus is a must-visit. The restaurant is known for its fluffy steamed buns filled with a variety of fillings, from crispy pork belly to spicy Korean fried chicken.
- La Boqueria – This Spanish-inspired restaurant offers a variety of tapas and paella dishes. The menu features fresh and flavorful ingredients, and the restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
- The Local Grill – If you’re a steak lover, The Local Grill is the place to go. The restaurant offers a variety of cuts of beef, as well as other meats like lamb and pork. The meat is cooked to perfection and served with delicious sides like truffle fries and creamed spinach.
- Lucky Bean – This restaurant offers a fusion of African and Asian flavors. The menu features dishes like bobotie spring rolls and spicy prawn curry. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere and is located in a historic building in Melville.
- DW Express – This casual eatery is the perfect spot for a quick and delicious meal. The menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other light bites. The restaurant is located in the trendy Maboneng Precinct.
- The Schwarma Company – For some delicious Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine, The Schwarma Company is a great choice. The restaurant offers a variety of shawarma wraps and plates, as well as other dishes like falafel and hummus. The restaurant has a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
Marble Restaurant
Marble Restaurant is a popular restaurant located in Johannesburg, South Africa. The restaurant is known for its great food and has won several awards over the years. In 2018, Marble was named the Best Spoil in Joburg and was included in the Top 30 Restaurants by Eat Out. In 2019, the restaurant was awarded the Pioneer Chef award by the American Express Dining Awards.
Marble Restaurant offers a contemporary and modern dining experience. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including steak, seafood, and vegetarian options. The menu is designed by Chef David Higgs, who is known for his innovative approach to cooking.
The restaurant’s interior is stylish and modern, with an open kitchen that allows diners to see the chefs at work. The restaurant also has a spacious outdoor area that offers stunning views of the city.
Marble Restaurant is a great place to celebrate special occasions or to have a romantic dinner. The restaurant’s attentive staff and delicious food make it a must-visit for anyone in Johannesburg.
The Grillhouse Rosebank
The Grillhouse Rosebank is a premium steakhouse that has been delighting diners since 1995. It is one of the most beloved restaurants in Rosebank and is known for its exceptional cuisine, extensive selection of fine wines and malts, and stellar service.
The restaurant has a warm and hospitable atmosphere that makes it perfect for a romantic dinner, a business meeting, or a night out with friends. The Grillhouse Rosebank is located in the heart of Johannesburg and is easily accessible from all parts of the city.
The menu at The Grillhouse Rosebank is a celebration of the best of South African cuisine. The restaurant is famous for its premium steaks, which are sourced from the best farms in the country. The steaks are cooked to perfection on an open flame grill and are served with a variety of delicious sides such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy onion rings.
In addition to steaks, The Grillhouse Rosebank also offers a range of other dishes such as fresh seafood, chicken, and vegetarian options. The restaurant has an extensive wine list that features some of the best wines from South Africa and around the world. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to help diners choose the perfect wine to complement their meal.
Overall, The Grillhouse Rosebank is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a premium dining experience in Johannesburg. With its exceptional cuisine, extensive wine list, and warm and hospitable atmosphere, it is no surprise that The Grillhouse Rosebank is one of the most beloved restaurants in the city.
Cube Tasting Kitchen
Cube Tasting Kitchen is a renowned restaurant in Johannesburg that offers an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience. The restaurant is an intimate 30-seat tasting kitchen that encourages diners to break free from conventional eating and explore a realm of gastronomical adventure that will tantalize every taste bud.
One of the unique features of Cube Tasting Kitchen is that it only serves 30 people at a time, making reservations essential. The lucky 30 guests are then presented with a pre-fixed, 10-course tasting menu, which is slowly revealed dish after dish over the course of no less than three hours. The menu changes regularly, so diners can always expect something new and exciting.
The restaurant has won multiple awards, including the Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Award for Best Tasting Menu in South Africa. The kitchen is led by renowned chef Dario D’Angeli, who has worked in some of the world’s best restaurants, including three Michelin-starred restaurants in France.
Cube Tasting Kitchen is located in Parktown North, a trendy suburb in Johannesburg. The restaurant has a modern and minimalist interior, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs at work. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with a focus on South African wines.
Restaurant Mosaic
Restaurant Mosaic is a fine-dining restaurant located in the Orient Boutique Hotel in Pretoria, just outside of Johannesburg. It is owned by Chef Chantel Dartnall, who has won numerous awards for her culinary skills and creativity.
The restaurant has a focus on French-inspired cuisine, with a strong emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly to reflect the availability of ingredients and to keep things interesting for regular diners.
One of the standout dishes at Restaurant Mosaic is the signature “Mosaic Journey” tasting menu, which features a selection of small plates that showcase the best of the restaurant’s cuisine. The menu is carefully curated to take diners on a culinary journey through different textures, flavors, and techniques.
The restaurant’s wine list is also a highlight, with an extensive selection of local and international wines to choose from. The sommelier is knowledgeable and can offer recommendations to pair with each dish.
The atmosphere at Restaurant Mosaic is elegant and refined, with a focus on attention to detail and impeccable service. The restaurant is popular for special occasions, such as birthdays and anniversaries, but is also suitable for a romantic dinner or business lunch.
Overall, Restaurant Mosaic is a must-visit for anyone looking for a high-end dining experience in Johannesburg. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, creative dishes, and exceptional service make it a standout in the city’s dining scene.
The Test Kitchen
The Test Kitchen is a renowned restaurant located in Woodstock, Cape Town, which has been consistently recognized as one of the best restaurants in South Africa. It was founded by the talented chef Luke Dale-Roberts and has been awarded several accolades, including being named the Best Restaurant in Africa at the World’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards.
The restaurant offers a unique and innovative dining experience, with a menu that changes frequently and is inspired by a combination of international and local flavors. The Test Kitchen has two dining areas, the Dark Room and the Light Room, both of which offer a different atmosphere and menu. The Dark Room is a more intimate space with a tasting menu, while the Light Room offers an à la carte menu and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Test Kitchen’s menu features dishes that are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Some of the standout dishes include the Cape Malay curried kingklip, the lamb shoulder with miso and aubergine, and the quail with smoked potato and truffle. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as the roasted cauliflower with dukkah and tahini.
In addition to the exceptional food, The Test Kitchen also offers an extensive wine list, with a focus on South African wines. The restaurant has a team of knowledgeable sommeliers who are happy to help guests choose the perfect wine to complement their meal.
Overall, The Test Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience in Johannesburg. While it may be on the pricier side, the quality of the food and service make it well worth the investment.
Che Argentine Grill
Che Argentine Grill is a popular steakhouse located in the Parkwood neighborhood of Johannesburg. The restaurant is known for its delicious Argentine-style steaks, which are perfectly cooked every time. The restaurant has won many awards for its steaks and is one of only two Argentine restaurants recommended by the Argentinian Embassy in South Africa.
The restaurant has a moody interior perfect for chilly nights and outdoor seating on the deck. The ambiance is cozy, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The menu at Che Argentine Grill features a variety of dishes, including steaks, burgers, salads, and more.
One of the standout dishes at Che Argentine Grill is the steak. The restaurant uses high-quality meat and grills it to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy steak every time. The steak is served with a choice of sides, including fries, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.
In addition to steaks, Che Argentine Grill also offers a selection of burgers. The burgers are made with high-quality beef and served on a brioche bun. The restaurant also has a variety of salads, including a classic Caesar salad and a Greek salad.
Overall, Che Argentine Grill is a must-visit restaurant for steak lovers in Johannesburg. The restaurant’s delicious food, cozy ambiance, and friendly staff make it a great place to enjoy a meal.
Five Hundred
Five Hundred is a fine dining restaurant located in the heart of Johannesburg. It has been featured in the Eat Out 500 list of the best restaurants in South Africa. The restaurant offers a contemporary cuisine that blends international flavors with local ingredients.
The menu at Five Hundred is designed by Chef David Higgs, who is known for his innovative and creative approach to cooking. The dishes are beautifully presented and are made using only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that features some of the best wines from around the world.
The ambiance at Five Hundred is elegant and sophisticated, with a modern decor that creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Some of the standout dishes at Five Hundred include the seared scallops with cauliflower puree, the lamb loin with potato fondant, and the chocolate tart with raspberry sorbet. The restaurant also offers a tasting menu that allows diners to sample a variety of dishes.
Overall, Five Hundred is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Johannesburg. With its exceptional cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service, it is sure to impress even the most discerning of diners.
Dw Eleven-13
DW Eleven-13 is one of Johannesburg’s top fine dining restaurants, located at the Dunkeld West Shopping Centre. The restaurant has gained a reputation for its exceptional food, impeccable service, and elegant atmosphere.
The restaurant’s menu is curated by Chef Marthinus Ferreira, who uses locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Guests can choose from a variety of set menus, including a vegetarian option, or opt for the a la carte menu.
DW Eleven-13 has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants on Diner’s Club’s regional list. The restaurant has also been awarded three plates in the JHP Gourmet Guide, which recognizes excellence in the South African restaurant industry.
The restaurant’s interior is modern and sophisticated, with a muted color palette and minimalist decor. The dining area is spacious and comfortable, with ample natural light and a relaxed ambiance.
Overall, DW Eleven-13 is a must-visit destination for foodies and fine dining enthusiasts in Johannesburg. With its exceptional food, impeccable service, and elegant atmosphere, it is sure to impress even the most discerning diners.
Conclusion
Johannesburg is a city with a vibrant culinary scene, offering a diverse range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. From inner-city revivals and genre-bending gastronomy to family-run favorites and trendy new hotspots, the choice of breakfast, lunch, and dinner for Joburg residents and visitors is abundant.
Based on the search results and the knowledge base, the top 10 best restaurants in Johannesburg are:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Marble Restaurant | International | Rosebank |
| The Grillhouse Rosebank | Steakhouse | Rosebank |
| DW Eleven-13 | Contemporary | Dunkeld West |
| Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient | Fine Dining | Elandsfontein |
| Flames Restaurant | International | Fourways |
| The Local Grill | Steakhouse | Parktown North |
| Eatery JHB | Contemporary | Parkhurst |
| The Marabi Club | Jazz Club & Restaurant | Maboneng |
| The Schwarma Company | Middle Eastern | Norwood |
| The Westcliff Deli | Deli | Westcliff |
These restaurants have been chosen based on their ratings, reviews, and popularity among locals and tourists alike. They offer a wide range of cuisines, from international to local, and cater to different budgets and dining preferences.
Whether you are looking for a romantic fine-dining experience, a casual brunch with friends, or a family-friendly steakhouse, Johannesburg has something to offer for everyone. So, next time you are in the city, make sure to check out one of these top 10 best restaurants and indulge in the flavors of Johannesburg’s culinary scene.