Finding a restaurant with a cheekier charm? Forgetta bout it! Fugazzi is a lively shrine to New York Italian Culture featuring the iconic retro red booth seating and vintage posters of neighbourhood diners. All about the simplicity of nostalgic Italian food with a red sauce recipe that truly slaps!
Summary: Lively, Great Cocktails, Vegetarian Options
Cuisine: New York Italian
Type: Casual Dining
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Location: Cradock Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196
The very first Fishmonger branch to ever open it’s doors, this place is the definition of perfection from the service to the food. The menu offers a wide variety of shellfish, fresh line fish and sushi while also catering for the non fish eater with organic beef dishes, as well as Portuguese flame-grilled chicken and more. Get ready to experience some Mediterranean magic!
Summary: Generous portions, Relaxed vibe, Friendly service
Cuisine: Seafood
Type: Casual Dining
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Location: Thrupps Centre, 204 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196
Acid Food & Wine Bar is a place to unwind, socialise, and discover new flavours. The menu changes weekly, featuring global cuisine inspired by traditional local and global recipes, with a particular emphasis on South East Asian flavours alongside an ever evolving selection of natural, minimal intervention wines from independent producers who don’t usually get listed or are hard to find including bubblies, whites, reds, and rosés. Whether you’re in the mood for small plates or larger dishes, expect something new and exciting with every visit!
Summary: Intimate, Cozy, Welcoming
Cuisine: Global Cuisine
Type: Unconventional Fine Dining
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Location: 19 4th Ave, Parktown North, Randburg, 2193
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
Biru is a unique and interactive experience, blending the classic braai with fine dining, made the way you want it. From classic Japanese to Sushi, BBQ, Hotpot, Sake and a wide variety of sauces, there are melt in your mouth options for all tastes. They also have an extensive range of beer, whiskey, and wine as well as imported Japanese beers and whiskeys to try.
Summary: Great vegetarian options, Interactive Dining, Friendly Service
Cuisine: Asian
Type: Interactive Fine Dining
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Location: 329 Rivonia Blvd, Edenburg, Sandton, 2128
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
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Location: Shop 18 Parkmore Square, 11th Street, Parkmore, Sandton, 2196, South Africa
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!