AskBrie.com

Suggest a Spot

Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Restaurants

Whiskey

Travel

Latest:

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

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

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

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

Foxcroft

Experience the same intensity and thoughtfulness of a fine dining establishment in a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere. Underpinned by expertly crafted, unpretentious food, the menu ticks all boxes showcasing seasonal and sustainable produce that is well cooked, treated with care, and presented in innovative, modern ways with the vegan and vegetarian options following suit. The bill at the end offers exceedingly good value for a top-notch fine-dining experience that leaves you feeling spoiled to the max!

Summary: Relaxed, Modern, Great vegan/vegetarian options
Global Cuisine
Casual Fine Dining
Website
Instagram
Shop 8, High Constantia Centre, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806

Tortellino d’Oro

This is THE place to experience proper authentic homemade italian pasta! It manages to be a restaurant, deli, and homeware store without coming across as overwhelming and the service is excellent. While coming in on the pricier end, the quality of the food is well worth it and they have some great vegetarian options.

Summary: Vegetarian Options, Great Service, Limited parking
Cuisine: Authentic Italian
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192

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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!