Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Latest:

Gemelli

Embark on a culinary journey inspired by the heart and soul of Italy. The menu is a celebration of contemporary Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients, sustainability, and the rich traditions of Italian cooking. Each dish is meticulously crafted, every bite a symphony of flavors designed to transport you to the vibrant streets of Italy. Luxe Global Award winner 2022, dress code strictly smart casual.

Summary: Innovative, Contemporary, Timeless
Cuisine: Italian
Type: Casual Fine Dining
Website
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Location: 13 Posthouse Link Centre Cnr, Main Rd, Bryanston, Sandton, 2191

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
Website
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Location: 110 Harrington St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

Acid Food & Wine Bar

Acid Food & Wine Bar is a place to unwind, socialise, and discover new flavours. The menu changes weekly, featuring global cuisine inspired by traditional local and global recipes, with a particular emphasis on South East Asian flavours alongside an ever evolving selection of natural, minimal intervention wines from independent producers who don’t usually get listed or are hard to find including bubblies, whites, reds, and rosés. Whether you’re in the mood for small plates or larger dishes, expect something new and exciting with every visit!

Summary: Intimate, Cozy, Welcoming
Cuisine: Global Cuisine
Type: Unconventional Fine Dining
Website
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Location: 19 4th Ave, Parktown North, Randburg, 2193

Grappino Bistro

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
Website
Instagram
Location: Waverley, Johannesburg, 2090

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
Website
Instagram
Location: Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192

SMOKE

Smoke is a celebration of the best in South African food, drinks and our relentless spirit, highlighting our incredible wines and MCCs, love of the outdoors and cooking over fire. Whether you hit the Secretary Lounge for an epic brunch, the Smoke Yard gathered around open firepits with the smell of delicious 18 hour ribs smoking away and the sound of their resident DJ bringing the vibes, or sipping cocktails in the Capital Bar – you’re in for a good time!

Summary: Outdoor Seating, Vibey, Celebration
Cuisine: High-end Grillhouse
Type: Semi Fancy Dining
Website
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Location: 16 Firwood Avenue, The Village, Pretoria, Gauteng

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!