Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

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

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
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Instagram
Location: Oaklands Shopping Centre, Pretoria Road & Victoria street, Oaklands, Johannesburg, 2192

Don Armando Illovo

For the carnivores among us, prepare to have the most delicious steak you’ve ever had. Inspired by Argentinian roots, Don Armando is an Argentinian style steak house with a hint of South African feel. The food is sublime, the venue tucked away making you feel like you’re in some far off European town, and a romantic and inviting ambiance that will leave you wanting more. It’s no wonder it’s a favourite among the locals.

Summary: Secure free parking, Welcoming, Romantic
Cuisine: Argentinian Style Steakhouse
Type: Casual Fine Dining
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Location: Shop 2 Piazza Level Illovo square 3 Rivonia Road, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196

SetteBello

This authentic Italian family-owned gem boasts the best Neapolitan pizza in Jozi! It feels like a home away from home that celebrates the joy of sharing great food with your loved ones. Their skilled chefs are either Italian born or trained by culinary experts from Italy. Get ready to experience the magic of Italy with every delectable bite. Be sure to try the freshly made gelato before heading home with a full stomach and contented soul.

Summary: Vibrant, Welcoming, Celebration
Cuisine: Italian
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: 7 Marais Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston, 2008

Modena Italian Eatery

Modena Italian Eatery, a hidden gem in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, is a culinary delight that features. The restaurant, led by talented Chef and Owner Vassilios Holiasmenos, serves authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Modena offers a warm and inviting space that’s perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to family gatherings and nights out with friends. Here, you’ll experience the best of Italy right in the heart of Johannesburg.

Summary: Authentic, Inviting, Memorable
Cuisine: Modern Italian
Type: Cosy Casual Dining
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Instagram
Location: Shop 10 Cobbels Shopping Centre, 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, 2120 South Africa

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

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!