Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Latest:

Obento

bento, founded by Ling and Dan in 2020 amidst the pandemic, is a culinary oasis in Parkmore. This Ramen Bar brings the vibrant and authentic flavors of Southeast Asia to the heart of Joburg. Obento provides a quick, comfortable dining experience reminiscent of a bustling Asian city’s side street. The menu, though limited, is bursting with traditional methods and modern fusion elements. In addition to dine-in and takeaway options, the restaurant also offers frozen meals for those who want to enjoy authentic flavors at home.

Summary: Authentic, Vibrant, Convenient
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Type: Casual Noodle Bar
Website
Instagram
Location: Shop 18 Parkmore Square, 11th Street, Parkmore, Sandton, 2196, South Africa

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

Bonjour Jacob Saint Germain Coffee

This cozy coffee shop is one of the best in Paris! Almost always crowded, they serve unbelievably good coffee brewed to perfection alongside an assortment of pastries and baked items. This one in Saint Germain is less crowded than the one near Republique, making it a lovely and peaceful spot to have your morning fix or spend the day working remote (solid internet connection).

Summary: Friendly Staff, Great Coffee, Awesome Internet
Cuisine: Coffee and Baked Goods
Type: Coffee shop
Website
Instagram
Location: 30 Rue Dauphine, 75006 Paris, France

Café 28

This gem is tucked away in the Inanda Greens Office Park overlooking a magnificent 9-hole golf course, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Unique, high quality ingredients – most of which are imported from Italy – and fresh organic produce grown in their very own garden offer up an impressive range of sharing boards (taglieri), pizza’s, pasta and heavenly desserts. The menu caters for a variety of palates including many vegetarian options, and they have a frozen range to bring the magic of Italy to the comfort of home.

Summary: Outdoor Terrace, Imported Beers, Great Service
Cuisine: Italian
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: 54 Wierda Rd E, Wierda Valley, Sandton, 2196

Don Armando Illovo

For the carnivores among us, prepare to have the most delicious steak you’ve ever had. Inspired by Argentinian roots, Don Armando is an Argentinian style steak house with a hint of South African feel. The food is sublime, the venue tucked away making you feel like you’re in some far off European town, and a romantic and inviting ambiance that will leave you wanting more. It’s no wonder it’s a favourite among the locals.

Summary: Secure free parking, Welcoming, Romantic
Cuisine: Argentinian Style Steakhouse
Type: Casual Fine Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: Shop 2 Piazza Level Illovo square 3 Rivonia Road, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196

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

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!