Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Latest:

Belly of the Beast

Arrive with an open mind and an empty stomach. There are no menu options or set amount of courses, all you do is show up and prepare to be surprised and delighted. Everything is sourced from local sustainable producers and every part of the animal is used, so you can expect some dishes that might test your boundaries, but Chef’s Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart always balance the menu so that everyone can enjoy the experience. With only 30 seats available, Belly of the Beast offers a truly unique and intimate dining experience.

Summary: Unique experience, Intimate, Reservation required
Cuisine: Show up and find out
Type: Fine Dining Experience
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Location: 110 Harrington St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

Tortellino d’Oro

This is THE place to experience proper authentic homemade italian pasta! It manages to be a restaurant, deli, and homeware store without coming across as overwhelming and the service is excellent. While coming in on the pricier end, the quality of the food is well worth it and they have some great vegetarian options.

Summary: Vegetarian Options, Great Service, Limited parking
Cuisine: Authentic Italian
Type: Casual Dining
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Location: Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192

Tomson

South Cantonese street food with a kick! Small plates make it perfect for sharing and trying a whole lot from this epic menu. Whether you nab a seat at the counter with a view of the kitchen or enjoy the bustle of Brie street out on the pavement benches, it’s a great casual spot with excellent food to enjoy a beer with friends.

Summary: Casual, Welcoming, Well Priced
Cuisine: Street Style South Cantonese
Type: Casual Dining
Instagram
Location: 120 Bree St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001

Parreirinha Restaurante

A home away from home and 5 decades in the game, there are very few restaurants that can compete with this one! Prepare to have your expectations exceeded from the lovely ambiance, attentive service, and mouthwatering dishes to the generous portions and unparalleled value for money. You won’t wait too long to come back!

Summary: Fireplace, Great Cocktails, Well priced
Cuisine: Portuguese
Type: Casual Dining
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Instagram
Location: The Square Cnr High & Old House Lane, Melrose Arch, Melrose North, Johannesburg, 2046

Foxcroft

Experience the same intensity and thoughtfulness of a fine dining establishment in a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere. Underpinned by expertly crafted, unpretentious food, the menu ticks all boxes showcasing seasonal and sustainable produce that is well cooked, treated with care, and presented in innovative, modern ways with the vegan and vegetarian options following suit. The bill at the end offers exceedingly good value for a top-notch fine-dining experience that leaves you feeling spoiled to the max!

Summary: Relaxed, Modern, Great vegan/vegetarian options
Global Cuisine
Casual Fine Dining
Website
Instagram
Shop 8, High Constantia Centre, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806

J’s Diner

This vibrant local favourite is often packed boasting fast and friendly service, generous portions at reasonable prices, and authentic dishes that transport you to very the heart of Mozambique! All meals are freshly prepared with options for the health conscious.

Summary: Generous portions, Great service, Lovely atmosphere, Free secure parking
Cuisine: Mozambique Style
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Location: 64 Conrad Dr, Blairgowrie, Randburg, 2194

Meet Brie

Humans are like onions, we have layers, one of mine – I’m an avid foodie. Any chance I get, I’m exploring a delicious menu somewhere in good company with a great whisky.

On my favourites list you’ll find unassuming spots that will surprise and delight – don’t judge a “book” till you’ve tried the food, swanky bars for those celebratory nights, and refined dining establishments with food so good it could be a last meal – all have something exceptional to offer. I can say that having been to every single one.

I believe life should be savoured – one bite, one sip, one laugh at a time. So pull up a chair, pour yourself a drink, and let’s embark on this delicious journey together.

Welcome to the table and buon appetit!