AskBrie.com

Suggest a Spot

Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Restaurants

Whiskey

Travel

Latest:

Marble

Marble offers Joburg diners something different. A grand wood-fired grill celebrates the quintessential South African tradition of cooking on fire – and not just meat, but all types of ingredients cooked on coals – including fish, poultry, vegetables and breads. The wine list has been painstakingly put together featuring 100 of the best local and some international wines. Expect award winning delicious food with a healthy dose of South African flair, and a great night out with and top-notch service and one of the best views of the city.

Summary: Sleek rooftop venue, craft cocktails & wine, happy hour specials
Cuisine: Grillhouse
Type: Fancy
Website
Instagram
Location: Trumpet on Keyes, Corner Keyes & Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa

Proud Mary

Proud Mary, based in Rosebank, Johannesburg, is a mid-century inspired all-day eatery and wine bar that offers a unique dining experience. Its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, combined with an extensive menu celebrating international cuisine, makes it a go-to spot for foodies. The restaurant’s commitment to supporting small-batch, local, and independent wineries ensures an impressive wine list that complements the diverse menu. Whether you’re there for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Proud Mary promises a luxurious and comfortable escapism that will leave you wanting more.

Summary: Mid-Century Chic, Diverse, Luxurious
Cuisine: International
Type: Luxurious Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: The Bank, 26 Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196

Ouland Royale

The perfect spot for brunch with a view! Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and sea from the terrace while the staff go out of their way to please you. With excellent dishes all homemade by chef and owner Wilja including fresh bread, buns, cakes, quiches, African dishes and more, you’ll want for nothing. The interior is beautifully decorated and very cozy with lounge options and an open fire for wintery days.

Summary: Vegan & Gluten Free Options, Wheelchair Accessible, Fireplace
Cuisine: Baked goods & African Dishes
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Location: W87P+5C Plettenberg Bay

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

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

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

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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!