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
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Location: 120 Bree St, CBD, Cape Town, 8001
Embarc is a stylish, award-winning oasis. Opened by Darren O’Donovan and Lisa de Beer in November 2020, this chic dining spot quickly became a beloved part of the Parkhurst culinary scene. The Embarc offers a modern, elegant dining experience in a trendy, relaxed space, serving up mouthwatering dishes that have helped it garner prestigious accolades, including South Africa’s best new restaurant in 2021 and the Best Bistro award in 2022.
Summary: Stylish, Award-Winning, Welcoming
Cuisine: Modern Elegance
Type: Trendy Relaxed Dining
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Location: Corner 13th Street and 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Johannesburg
If you love Mexican inspired food, this is a must try! Inspired by Baja California, experience a modern twist on authentic Coastal Mexican with tortillas made fresh daily by hand, seafood and meats prepared on an authentic charcoal grill, and you just can’t have a dull day when you taste the complimentary Mole (pronounced MOH-lay!) served with crackers to satiate you while you peruse their mouth watering menu. Highly recommend the brisket and Baja lobster taco.
Summary: Elegant, Vibrant, Vegan Options
Cuisine: Coastal Mexican
Type: Casual Fine Dining
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Location: 92 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Marble offers Joburg diners something different. A grand wood-fired grill celebrates the quintessential South African tradition of cooking on fire – and not just meat, but all types of ingredients cooked on coals – including fish, poultry, vegetables and breads. The wine list has been painstakingly put together featuring 100 of the best local and some international wines. Expect award winning delicious food with a healthy dose of South African flair, and a great night out with and top-notch service and one of the best views of the city.
Summary: Sleek rooftop venue, craft cocktails & wine, happy hour specials
Cuisine: Grillhouse
Type: Fancy
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Location: Trumpet on Keyes, Corner Keyes & Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa
Authentic Italian at it’s best, you can’t beat the quality, generous portions or the price point! Service is always good, the atmosphere warm and relaxed and the menu extensive with excellent vegan and vegetarian options. It’s no wonder they are always full!
Summary: Vegan/Vegetarian options, Reasonable prices, Generous portions
Cuisine: Authentic Italian
Type: Casual Dining
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Location: Waverley, Johannesburg, 2090
It’s time to go on a mediterranean taste adventure! Drawing on the tasty and varied gastronomic heritage of the Mediterranean, Prosopa is unashamedly a South African restaurant, sourcing the finest foods and wines from this wonderful and diverse country, creating an atmosphere where all cultures feel welcome. The Diners Club Diamond award-winning wine list has been compiled with care and much enjoyment by Chef Patron Dino – just not all on the same night!
Summary: Elegant, Vibrant, Welcoming
Cuisine: Greek
Type: Greek Fine Dining
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Location: 103 Club Ave, Waterkloof Heights, Pretoria, 0181
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!