Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Latest:

Fugazzi

Finding a restaurant with a cheekier charm? Forgetta bout it! Fugazzi is a lively shrine to New York Italian Culture featuring the iconic retro red booth seating and vintage posters of neighbourhood diners. All about the simplicity of nostalgic Italian food with a red sauce recipe that truly slaps!

Summary: Lively, Great Cocktails, Vegetarian Options
Cuisine: New York Italian
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196

Ukkō

Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Mediterranean cuisine and sushi, Ukko offers a journey of flavors that delight the senses and warm the soul. Each dish is a masterpiece in its own right, meticulously crafted to showcase perfectly balanced, fresh local ingredients. With an extensive wine list and mixology bar, Ukkō promises to deliver a unique dining experience, set to transport you on a Mediterranean holiday.

Summary: Sophisticated, Balanced, Celebration 
Cuisine: Mediterranean Tapas and Sushi
Type: Casual Fine Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: William Nicol Dr &, Wedgewood Link Rd, Bryanston, Sandton, 2191

Embarc

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
Website
Instagram
Location: Corner 13th Street and 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Johannesburg

Modern Tailors

The streets of India in the heart of Johannesburg, this hidden gem seamlessly weaves together a tapestry of flavours drawing inspiration from the great many roadside culinary masters that make up the vibrant colours, sounds and smells of India. Come for the food, stay for the laughter, and leave with great memories. Sophistication meets soulfulness, and every visit feels like coming home.

Summary: Vibrant, Elevated Street Food, Vegan Options
Cuisine: Indian Fusion
Type: Casual Chic
Website
Instagram
Location: The Zone, 189 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196

Tang

Tang, a sought-after recommendation on Brie’s foodie list, is an Asian fusion restaurant located in the bustling center of Sandton. With its commitment to providing an authentic Asian dining experience, Tang Sandton gives guests a taste of diverse culinary traditions from across Asia. This stylish and contemporary spot offers a sophisticated ambience that’s perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Summary: Authentic, Stylish, Diverse
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Type: Sophisticated Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: Shop 2, 24 Central, Gwen Lane, Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa

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
Instagram
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!