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Suggest a Spot

Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Restaurants

Whiskey

Travel

Latest:

Parreirinha Restaurante

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
Website
Instagram
Location: The Square Cnr High & Old House Lane, Melrose Arch, Melrose North, Johannesburg, 2046

Fishmonger Illovo

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
Website
Location: Thrupps Centre, 204 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196

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

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

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

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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!