Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Latest:

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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Location: The Square Cnr High & Old House Lane, Melrose Arch, Melrose North, Johannesburg, 2046

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

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
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Location: The Zone, 189 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196

Obi

Obi is one of those unassuming places that just completely blows you away. They may not serve coffee being very traditional, but you won’t find better Japanese food anywhere in Cape Town and it’s well known as one of the best sushi spots by locals. You can expect Papa San to come by your table to make sure the sensational plates he’s lovingly prepared for you are “okay”, a lovely personal touch. If you only try one thing off the menu, let it be the Agedashi Tofu and thank me later.

Summary: Cozy, Vibey, Well Priced
Cuisine: Authentic Japanese
Type: Casual Dining
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Instagram
Location: Shop 2, 14 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

Thali

Generously portioned, perfectly balanced indian-inspired food with a fun modern sensibility that pushes the envelope for a unique experience. This easy going Cape Town classic just off Kloof Street greets you with vibrant colours, a fragrant cloud of spices and a timeless aesthetic. The charming fairy-lit courtyard is the perfect spot to enjoy culinary delights on a warm summer evening.

Summary: Generous portions, Excellent vegan options, Great cocktails
Cuisine: Indian Inspired
Type: Contemporary Fine Dining
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Location: 3 Park Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001

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
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Location: Shop 2 Piazza Level Illovo square 3 Rivonia Road, Illovo, 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!