Your Guide to
Epicurean Delights and Spirited Adventures!

By Brett Perlstein

Latest:

The Black Sheep Restaurant

This laid-back eatery is a place to indulge in great food and great company. The intimate space features three dining levels, including a stunning mezzanine/lounge area and a main floor drenched in natural light and with great views of Table Mountain. You’ll find an array of honest, uncomplicated, good food made with the best local ingredients featuring everything from comfort food and familiar dishes to more adventurous and conceptual options. A must try in Cape Town!

Summary: Laid back, Generous portions, Great cocktails
Cuisine: Global Cuisine
Type: Casual Dining
Website
Instagram
Location: 104 Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001

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

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

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

Biru

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
Website
Location: 329 Rivonia Blvd, Edenburg, Sandton, 2128

The Ouzeri

The Ouzeri, a culinary jewel in Cape Town’s city centre. This restaurant is a contemporary celebration of Cyprus and Greece’s regional dishes and culinary traditions, bringing a piece of the Mediterranean to South Africa. Here, old family recipes are executed with modern style and flair, creating a dining experience that is both nostalgic and innovative. With a menu sourced from top local producers and a wine list that complements the flavours of each dish perfectly, The Ouzeri promises a meal that is as memorable as it is delicious.

Summary: Mediterranean, Contemporary, Flavorful

Occassion: Date night, special celebration

Cuisine: Cypriot-Greek

Type: Casual Regional Dining

Website

Instagram

Location: 58 Wale 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!