AskBrie.com

Suggest a Spot

Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Restaurants

Whiskey

Travel

Latest:

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

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

Ariel Modern Italian

Ariel Modern Italian is an exquisite fusion of Napoli and New York, nestled in the vibrant heart of Cape Town. This restaurant embodies the graceful simplicity of Italian cuisine, offering an array of Neapolitan pizzas, pastas, and classic cocktails. Ariel Modern Italian is more than just an eatery; it’s a place where friends gather, celebrations occur, and joy is shared over good meals. The ambiance is reminiscent of European street dining, making it a delightful spot to wind down an afternoon.

Summary: Elegant, Vibrant, Welcoming
Cuisine: Italian Fusion
Type: Casual Chic Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: 90 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8005

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

Sin Tax Bar

The only bar on the African continent to make it into the World’s 50 Best Bars’ top 100 in 2019, Sin Tax Bar’s seductive ambiance makes for a captivating sanctuary where sinful indulgence meets refined elegance. The art of mixology and imagination takes center stage, and every cocktail is a masterpiece waiting to be savored. From classic concoctions to innovative creations, each drink is crafted with precision and passion, promising an unforgettable journey for your taste buds. Whether you’re seeking an intimate evening with friends or a romantic rendezvous, Sin Tax Bar sets the standard for unforgettable moments and guilty pleasures. 

Summary: Seductive, Sophisticated, Indulgent
Cuisine: Cocktail Bar (No Food Menu)
Type: Upscale Speakeasy
Website
Instagram
Location: Jan Smuts Ave & Bolton Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196

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

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You can't go wrong with a Brie recommendation. He approaches food with an enthusiastic sense of adventure and spontaneity that simply cannot be topped. Dishes that had me apprehensive at first have become dishes I'll go back for again and again, that can only be described as a spiritual experience, and must be shared with friends because it will "absolutely change your life"!
Amber Sharp
Amber Sharp

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!