Johannesburg Restaurants

Lovingly run by a husband and wife team who specialise in homemade specialities made the Portuguese way. Tucked away in Ferndale with a loyal seafood following and homely décor, 1920 Portuguese Restaurant welcomes patrons with warm smiles, family photos dominated by football memorabilia and the lingering aroma of mouth-watering cuisine. The service is friendly and attentive; the menu brims with Portuguese delights and good selection of imported beers and wines using fresh ingredients and family recipes passed down from generations. Enjoy an array of homemade Madeiran specialties like Fejoada – a traditional pork, beef, chourico, and bean stew, fall-off-the-bone oxtail, porco com amêijoa - pork and clam casserole, tender calamari and succulent prawn rissoles. If prawns beguile, try the LM Mozambique prawns, served with a delicious homemade peri-peri and hand-cut potato chips or rice. The espetada, skewered cubes of rump steak, grilled the traditional way and served with milho frito, pan-fried squares of creamy polenta with kale, is a must-try. Tantalise the taste buds with a journey of the Portuguese islands at this homely and welcoming restaurant in Ferndale, Randburg.

A favourite restaurant for returning patrons, with value for money and traditional Thai cooking, 2 Thai4 Restaurant sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. Experience full bodied richness and flavour, lingering aromas that seduce the senses, and mouth watering dishes at this truly traditional Thai Restaurant in Illovo.

A thoroughly authentic restaurant serving the finest in Ethiopian cuisine. With offerings you won’t find anywhere else such as ting-sour Injera flatbread, Abysinia is the place to go for a truly unique dining experience. For a little of everything, ask for a platter and you will not be disappointed. Prices are incredibly reasonable. The drinks are equally exciting with strong, fresh coffee as well as local and Ethiopian wines. The casual, relaxed ambience and charming service make an experience at Abysinia one to remember.

The delicious menu brims with high quality seafood such as voluptuous Mozambican prawns and a variety of succulent steaks, poultry and traditional dishes. The warm and inviting ambiance sets the tone for a unique Portuguese experience housed in a luxurious house in Kensington.

Explore the rich culture of India through aromatic and exotic cuisine at Bombay Blues. Specialising in superb North Indian cuisine, Bombay Blues treats food as more than mere sustenance. Food at this popular Rosebank restaurant is perceived as an expression of a connection to others, a means to strengthen bonds and what better way than in inspiring surroundings and with delicious dishes and friendly staff. The menu boasts the best of North Indian curries, tandoori dishes and breads. Try the masala tea after your meal as you relax in the tranquil ambiance of Bombay Blues. A good selection of wines is also available to choose from. Experience glorious Indian culture at Bombay Blues.

Bosco Ristorante epitomises everything that is glorious about Italian food.A truly family-run restaurant, only the finest traditional Italian dishes are served. Wood-oven baked pizzas, home-made pastas, succulent meat dishes and the freshest seafood all contribute to the fantastic menu, which takes on a contemporary spin, keeping up with the times.The award-winning wine list compiling South African and Italian wines and knowledgeable staff will enable you to select the perfect wine to complement your meal.Food is the backbone of the Italian way of life. A sentiment that Bosco Ristorante celebrates in style!

An unassuming sandwich/Italian deli-style restaurant, Bottega has grown in popularity since its opening and the trend looks to continue. And it doesn't end at the food, Bottega boasts an extensive wine list as well as a range of whiskies and cigars. The service is friendly and attentive without being intrusive and the decor is charismatic to suit the ambiance. Bottega ticks all the boxes when it comes to a truly satisying dining experience.

A noted institution in Melville that brims with wholesome meals and delicious bakery, Café de la Crème sets a home away from home ambiance dressed in ornate pressed chandeliers, old fashioned stripes and flowing character. Enjoy freshly baked cakes, pastries, biscuits and bread throughout the day or a scrumptious toasted sandwich with chips or salad. Daily specials include fish and chips, chicken a la king and lamb chops. Main course delights with Lamb shank, traditional Greek moussaka and the rare roast fillet with three sauces. Desert seduces with sinful treats such as bee sting, baklava, brandy balls, pigs ears and petite fours to mention a few. Enjoy substantial breakfasts, legendary lunches and dinners alongside decadent treats at Café de la Crème in Melville.

This attractive restaurant boasts an interesting interior; the distressed walls compliment the beautiful pressed ceiling and original wooden floors that exude a warm Tuscan feel. Dine alfresco on the elevated terrace wrapped in stylish wrought irons railings ejoying a hearty breakfast or languid lunch, and by night enrobed in romance, the terrace seduces with dimly lit lanterns. The menu oozes Italian country style, with starter of roasted butternut and gorgonzola pot - butternut with sage, gorgonzola and black mushroom served in a puff pastry pot. For seafood lovers, try the calamari stuffed with a spicy combination of braised lemon, tomato and risotto rice. Traditional Italian starters, try the Anti Pasti platter available in both meat and vegetarian options. Main course calls for the Pork a la Milanese (crumbed pork chops with mash) or a famous Café Picobella pizza, baked in a very stylish mosaic clad pizza oven. Conclude the meal with a Tiramisu or the Polenta Orange Cake highly recommended for dessert. Café Picobella Trattoria is a truly memorable dining experience in relaxed surrounds perfecting for soaking up true Italian culture.

If traditional Spanish and Portuguese food and delightful tapas is what you’re after then Canto Latino is the place for you. Specialising in the finest Spanish and Portuguese cuisine and prices to please, it’s not a surprise that Canto Latino receives lots of support from the local community. A picturesque courtyard provides al fresco dining to please and Flamenco music adds to the authenticity of your Latin dining experience. When it comes to true Latin cuisine, Canto Latino is the genuine article.

Securing a large Portuguese and Italian following and live entertainment on Thursday’s followed by Sunday’s in true continental fashion, Ciro Umberto entices with tasty delights. Try the Prosciutto di Parma - thin slices of Parma ham served on melon wedges for starters or the calamari - either grilled tubes or Cajun grilled tubes with lemon butter or fried rings with tartar sauce. Mains offer choices such as roast Lamb - with roast potatoes, vegetables and mint sauce, Circo Umberto also secures reputation for delicious pizzas in town. Dine indoors next to a winter log fire or alfresco, at this relaxed and traditional restaurant in Douglasdale.

For truly authentic Thai food from one of the most original Thai restaurants in South Africa, try Cranks.Having built a solid reputation over many successful years, Cranks Thai House of Blues proffers the finest in Thai food as well as choice offerings from Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. A good wine list has had a loyal following dropping by regularly to just sip and relax.The decor is vibrant with luminous paintings adorning the walls and even, rather randomly, suspended Ken and Barbie dolls!A truly authentic dining experience awaits you at Cranks Thai House of Blues.

Traditional décor sets the mood with red table cloths, lanterns and oriental style artwork. The menu introduces traditional Chinese styles alongside Asian delights hailing from Vietnam, Laos, Singapore and Thailand. Diverse and specialised, Fu Li Hua lays claim to being the biggest Chinese restaurant in Kempton Park. Try the sweet and sour chicken or pork, the Peking Duck, and the sizzling beef layered with spring onion and ginger served on traditional hot plate. Asian dishes such as such as the popular Vietnamese fried noodles are served with chicken, chopped vegetables and sesame seeds. The curried chicken from Laos is mouth-watering as is the Thai-style hot spicy prawns and the Thai green curry. Pop into Fu Li Hua and discover a world of authentic dishes and traditional ambiance in the bustling Emperors Palace Casino.

Boasting traditional Italian meals and a decadent curries infused from the styles and flavours of Durban style curries, diners enjoy a myriad of flavours and culinary creations. Savour the signature dish - Lamb curry, cooked on the bone with a selection of hot, medium or mild curry, served with rice, pickles, papadoum and salad. JJ’s is great for relaxed lunch occasions and dinners, easily located in Beacon Isle, Johannesburg.

This local haunt serves authentic Thai cuisine, perfectly balanced with sweet, savour and salty flavours and an intimate wine list to compliment each meal. All ingredients are fresh and freshly prepared to enhance the exotic dining experience, try a soup, salad, curry and some fish, meat and vegetable dishes. Specialities include tom yum goong, crab curry, prawn cashew and the famous pad Thai. Kai Thai wraps the palate in colourful surrounds, bamboo lights and exotic atmosphere, reminiscent of sultry Thailand beaches.

Located in Fourways, Sandton, this steakhouse boasts black cobra polished walls and fittings, large glass doors and window, and an interior laden with heavy leather chairs, seating booths and balcony views. Peruse the extra-large steaks and full rack of ribs for larger appetites, bobotie, pies, boerewors, and chicken. Side dishes compliment succulent grills and include chips, baked potato, vegetables and onion rings with a salad buffet brimming with variety. Dessert calls for traditional Malva pudding, jelly, custard and tipsy tart. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Karoo Cattle and Land Steakhouse caters for hearty appetites.

Boasting exquisite dining in light and airy surrounds, Kirsten at Wellington’s secures high class service and decadent selection of mouth-watering cuisine. Dine alfresco or indoors sampling delights such as delicious Italian pasta dishes, authentic Portuguese, Greek Moussaka and Lamb, tender, falling off the bone and seasoned with aromatic spices and wine. Kirsten at Wellington’s is hidden gem waiting to be discovered, on Wellington Road in Parktown.

Kuzina boasts a famous Greek chef – Yiannis Baxevanis, whose creativity and authentic style spill out onto decadent dishes and mouth-watering aromas. With focus on quality and authenticity, Kuzina embraces exotic international dishes in a warm and welcoming room, typical of Greek family traditions, where families come together around good food and festive celebration. Visit Kuzina and discover true Greek aromas and famous hospitality in Rosebank, Johannesburg.

Warm and inviting, the interior blends traditional with elegance in beautifully setting that oozes romantic and classic dining. The views from the villa balcony sets forth a fantasy inspired by the eloquent streets of Tuscany, the menu seduces with fine Italian cuisine and suited wines warmed by irresistible deserts. For antipasto, try the Carpaccio di Manzo - finely sliced fillet of raw beef drizzled with extra virgin olive oil with shavings of parmesan, mushroom and celery. Delectable Linguine Gamberetti is layered with queen prawns and shrimps in a spicy cream sauce and finally, the most perfect Crème caramel, a homemade classic concludes the meal. La Scala Restaurant transcends an ordinary dining experience into something beautiful and classic, with a hint of romance overlooking the streets of Tuscany.

The traditional décor sets the mood for an authentic dining experience basking in glorious Cantonese dishes and delightful Yum Cha. The atmosphere and cuisine invites social dining complimented by the friendly atmosphere and service. Enjoy whole baked fish pungent with garlic and ginger, crisp-skinned chicken or pepper beef and famous Yum Cha brunches brimming with a selection of dim sum. An average wine list compliments authentic cuisine and flavours at Lai Lai Garden in Illovo.

Serving lunch and dinner, the menu entices with freshly baked ciabattas and a selection of delicious fillings alongside generous pastas and pizzas. Dine alfresco on the veranda or within the comfortable interior. Pizzas and pasta choices provide plenty to choose from with recommendations such as the Linguine Salmone – a sophisticated combination of smoked salmon, caviar, cream, chives and parsley, and the Spaghetti Prosciutto with lime, rocket capers and olive oil. Pizzas vary from the standard Regina (ham and mushroom) to more exciting combinations like the Palmanova with avo, brinjal, olives, blue cheese, bacon, garlic and chilli. Meat lovers indulge in traditional favourites like the Veal Marsala, Melanzane Parmigiana and Mussels in a creamy white wine/garlic sauce. Pop into Lambrusco’s Italian Dining for hearty lunch or dinner, true to Italian dining and hospitality.

Situated in a stylishly restored Georgian homestead in trendy, upmarket Sandton, Le Canard offers International dining at its finest. Frequented by a range of patrons, including celebrities and politicians, Le Canard takes pride in providing the best service and finest food. With a healthy menu full of sumptuous dishes and exciting flavours and using only the finest ingredients, you will find your time at Le Canard to be a memorable one. Relax as classical music complements thoughtful decor and freshly-cut flowers. All you need to arrange is the company, let Le Canard take care of the rest.

Amongst green grass, tall pine trees and a tranquil lake, moyo seduces visitors to be open to love and laughter, seeking life and seeing it in the eye of a child. Mystical moyo water features sing songs of harmony to all who cross the bridge. The combination of outdoor and indoor gives the option of dining in the lush green terraced gardens or the colourful textured interior. Both take you on a journey of the senses to explore and experience diverse Africa. In feathered headgear the Mbira players roam the restaurant with lingering tunes. You might just be surprised by a painted statue that mysteriously comes to life. Moyo Magic - the Zoo Lake addition to the moyo family is aimed at our future - the children of today. A safe and nurturing environment is created and through workshops children are encouraged to revel in our heritage.

Mumbai Brasserie fills the senses with fragrant dishes and spices created with care and culinary expertise. Chefs hail from Mumbai and bring with them the experience and skill to seduce diners with specialised North Indian cuisine. Decadently prepared dishes ranging from the very soft and succulent chicken, fish and lamb to the more extravagant and delicate dishes such as fresh springbok, ostrich and duck, made in the Tandoor oven infuse the palate. Try the tender Lamb Korma, succulent pieces of lamb, slow cooked with traditional spices in a cashew nut sauce with a glass of well partnered wine and authentic ambiance at Mumbai Brasserie in Northriding.

This well rounded restaurant inspires dishes well suited to western tastes alongside a comprehensive wine list. The finest Japanese dishes wrap the palate in a appetising selection of sushi, teriyaki, golden-grilled salmon and scrumptious seafood salads. The ambiance sets the mood with traditional and contemporary surrounds for an authentic dining experience at Ninjing Japanese Restaurant in Lonehill.

The cuisine is consistent and good brimming with Mandarin and Cantonese dishes, good wine and beers. With popular signature dishes such as the Peking duck, delicious dumplings and the best cucumber salad and calamari with black beans. The service is friendly and traditional with gentle drapes of red and gold warming this open and airy establishment in Hyde Park Corner.

Located in Cyrildene Centre, Sai Thai Restaurant lurks hidden charm, dressed in ornate artefacts, good luck charms and vintage photographs of the Royal Family. Rich gold and maroon hues enhance the traditional Thai ambiance complimented by an extensive menu filled with lovely fresh Thai food. The outstanding tom yum goong is thick and flavourful, as is the signature pad Thai and minced pork stir-fry, concluded by decadent creamed coconut and fresh mango for dessert and the freshest juices. Awarded 2 Dine Awards, Top 10 Everyday Restaurants for 2008 and Top 100 Restaurants 2008, Sai Thai needs delivers exceptional Thai cuisine to the wagging palates of Jozi Foodies.

Less is more - this subtle approach to dining compliments the palate with fragrant dishes dressed in sauces and ginger, instead of hot spices and chillies. The décor invites simplicity, with attractive lanterns and touches of bamboo extending the exotic ambiance. The heart of the restaurant, the open plan kitchen allows visual display of chefs at work while waiters in traditional outfits deliver fragrant Thai and Vietnamese dishes alongside complimenting Asian wines. The menu boasts an extensive array of starter recommendations such as prawn and vegetable crystal spring rolls and Indochine dumplings . Main course specialities include Saigon Wok Beef, Caramelized Fish served in a clay pot and the delicious Half Roast Duck with decadent Plum sauce. Conclude the meal with a traditional dessert such as the Vietnamese-style Coconut Flan or Deep Fried Ice Cream.

Inspired dishes from North and South India grace the menu and wet the appetite with and infusion of spices lingering through the air. Skilful chefs prepare perfectly balanced dishes that brim with exotic taste and aromatic flair. Sit down and enjoy an Indian dining affair with the likes of a 3 course dinner for a truly festive dining experience. Sitar hits the spot perfectly, when nothing other than Indian will do.

Exuding a cool modern interior and décor reminiscent of the spice laden markets of India, Spiceburg invites diners to enjoy mouth watering cuisine in a trendy and bustling atmosphere. Using only the finest spices, local and imported to achieve authentic taste sensations, diners soak up exotic temptations from the menu. Whether dining North or South, the menu captures the essence of Indian tradition. For a South Indian starter, try the vegetarian sambar vadai, consisting of lentil fritters soaked in sambar. Mains delights with a mixture of vegetables and seafood with the vegetarian avial or the kerala style melange of vegetables smothered in yoghurt, green chilli, cumin and coconut milk. Popular fish dishes such as the Kerala Fish Roast Masala - a whole pomfret fish roasted with a mild masala. North Indian dishes include the chicken wings marinated in chilli, ginger and garlic for starters. Chicken Tikka Masala for mains or the Kashmiri spicy specialty Lamb Rogan Josh infused with red chilli and herbs. Spiceburg satisfies with mouth watering and authentic Indian dishes in a cool modern setting in the trendy suburb of Greenside.

Bringing exotic cuisine from the small island of Thailand, to the bustling suburb of Sandton, Thai chefs master the art of exciting the palate with authentic flavours and taste sensations. The interior brims with traditional artefacts and music, where waiters gracefully move parcels of fragrant cuisine attired in traditional Thai clothing to beaconing palates. Scrumptious and mouth watering, Thai Café heralds some of the best Thai food in Jozi in a warm and friendly ambiance.

Exuding a intimate dining atmosphere, that is warm and relaxed, diners peruse hearty and fragrant South African delights from the grill buffet. The interior wraps the dining experience in cultural and ethnic colours, which ease the palate into a culinary journey. Visit The Boma and experience world class buffet dining heightened by famous shebeen beers and wines in Alberton, Johannesburg.

A truly African experience awaits you at Tribes Restaurant.The best in steaks, venison, lamb, seafood and South African dishes, this stylish and contemporary African-themed restaurant boasts a warm welcoming and culturally rich experience every time you dine.The attention to detail in the dishes and decor alike is flawless and the service is superb. An experience to remember awaits you at Tribes restaurant at the Emperor’s Palace.

This multi Indian cuisine secures a new perspective on dining brimming with simple characteristic flavours of India. The outstanding menu embraces flavours of North India infused with Goan and Hydrabadi delights and a well chosen wine list. A plush dining hall sets the mood with traditional décor and a soothing ambiance that settles the mind before immersing the palate in authentic Indian cuisine.

Heralded as Sandton’s most authentic Thai experience, outside the shores of Thailand, Wangthai enthrals diners with beautifully presented cuisine bursting with taste fragrant Thai flavours. The tempting menu wets the appetite with a cornucopia of dishes infused with lemongrass, sweet chilli and tamarind, perfectly suited to complimenting wines that enhance delicate Thai flavours. Starter recommendations such as the spicy satays in pork, beef or chicken lathered with peanut sauce are simply delicious as are the Prawns wrapped in rice pastry served with sweet chilli sauce. Main course menu boasts excellent choice of curries, vegetarian dishes and delicate Duck dishes they rein supreme alongside the stir friend signature dish the “Angry Duck”. Dine alfresco on the balcony overlooking the square or indoors wrapped in the plush décor, sophisticated by majestic gold statues, curved walls and experience authentic Thai cuisine with Bangkok’s finest 5 star chefs.

Located in the trendy suburb of Melville, Yasuqi Cuisine offers value for money and plenty of alfresco seating complimented by a comprehensive selection of Chinese delights. The décor bursts with bright red table cloths, lanterns and well furnished with light Maple wood. Intimate dining booths laced with attractive lattice designs sets a tone of authenticity. Starter recommendations include hot and sour soup, spring rolls dressed with a variety and fillings and traditional dumplings. Main course dishes offer extensive choice such as Peking duck, a sizzling hot plate, available with a choice of meat or fish and a selection of sauces. For something a little spicier try fragrant Thai hot pots. If value for money, traditional décor and scrumptious Chinese dishes beacon the need, visit Yasuqui Cuisine in Melville.