AskBrie.com

Suggest a Spot

Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Restaurants

Whiskey

Travel

Latest:

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

Kolonaki Greek Kouzina

The closest thing to a Greek island in the heart of Joburg, Kolonaki Greek Kouzina has been a hit since its doors opened. With its buzzing wraparound balconies and fashionable crowd, enjoy the vibrant atsmosphere as you feast on meze dishes made for sharing that show off the very best of Greek and Mediterranean flavours.

Summary: Warm and Welcoming, Vibey, Celebration
Cuisine: Greek
Type: Casual Fine Dining
Instagram
Location: no18 4th Avenue Cnr, 9th St, Parkhurst, Randburg, 2193

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

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

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
Website
Instagram
Location: 3 Park Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001

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
Website
Instagram
Location: Shop 2, 14 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000

Load More
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!