Must-Visit Restaurants in Johannesburg
One thing I love doing—and I know my audience enjoys too—is reviewing restaurants. Over the years, I’ve had some incredible dining experiences in Johannesburg, from fine dining spots to hidden gems. If you’re looking for some of the best places to eat in Joburg, here are my top recommendations!
1. Shortmarket Club – Rosebank
Price Range: Starters from R180, Mains from R350, Desserts from R150
Shortmarket Club is a sophisticated restaurant in Rosebank, offering a fine dining experience with bold flavors and impeccable presentation. Their menu focuses on modern cuisine with a mix of local and international influences. The ambiance is chic yet intimate, making it perfect for a special lunch or night out.
Must-Try: The steak tartare, duck, and their famous dessert selection.
2. Bowl’d – Morningside
Price: 3-course meal for R695 per couple
Bowl’d in Morningside is perfect for date nights. They focus on bold, fresh flavors with a mix of African and Asian influences, offering a curated set menu that changes seasonally.
Must-Try: Their seasonal 3-course menu.
3. The Potluck Club – Rosebank & Melrose Arch
Price Range: Small plates from R120 to R250 each
The Potluck Club is known for its tapas-style dining, where you can experience multiple flavors in one meal. The restaurant recently opened a branch near Melrose Arch.
Must-Try: Their signature pork belly, fish tacos, and famous churros.
4. Aman – Woodmead
Price Range: Sushi platters from R250, Mains from R280
Aman is a stylish restaurant offering a blend of contemporary and Asian-inspired cuisine. Their cocktails are also a highlight, making it a great place for a night out.
Must-Try: The sushi platters and their signature prawn dishes.
5. The CodFather – Parktown
Price Range: Seafood platters from R400, Sushi from R120
If you love seafood, the CodFather is one of the best spots in Joburg. What makes them unique is their market-style approach—you choose your seafood, and they prepare it just the way you like it.
Must-Try: Their grilled prawns and seafood platters.
6. Tempo – Sandton
Price: Temptation Thursday special – 3-course meal for R399 per person
Tempo offers a lively yet elegant atmosphere, making it great for both casual and special occasions.
Must-Try: The beef fillet and their signature chocolate fondant.
7. Marble – Rosebank
Price Range: Steaks from R420, Sides from R85
A must-visit for steak lovers, Marble specializes in open-fire cooking, giving a unique smoky flavor to every dish.
Must-Try: The aged ribeye and their famous smoked butter mashed potatoes.
8. Level Seven – Kempton Park
Price Range: Starters from R150, Mains from R350
Located in the Radisson Hotel, this rooftop restaurant offers both great food and stunning city views.
Must-Try: The seafood risotto and the lamb rack.
9. Ethos – Sandton
Price Range: Starters from R140, Mains from R280
For a luxurious Mediterranean dining experience, Ethos is the place to be. The decor is elegant, and the food is rich in flavor.
Must-Try: The truffle pasta and their grilled octopus.
10. Modeo – Montecasino
Price Range: Starters from R100 | Mains from R200
Modeo at Montecasino is a vibrant and modern spot offering a blend of international flavors with a local twist. The restaurant features a stylish atmosphere, perfect for both casual and more upscale dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or a relaxed lunch, Modeo is a great option.
Must-Try: The grilled calamari, signature burgers, and their variety of craft cocktails.
11. Le Petit Chef – Montecasino
Price: 6-course immersive dining experience from R1,450 per person
For a completely unique experience, Le Petit Chef offers a 3D interactive dining experience paired with gourmet dishes.
Must-Try: Their signature tasting menu.
12. Mythos – Montecasino
Price Range: Starters from R90, Mains from R190
If you love Greek food, Mythos at Montecasino has a beautiful garden view and a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.
Must-Try: The lamb kleftiko, grilled halloumi, and their signature baklava.
Johannesburg has an incredible restaurant scene, and these are just a few of my top picks. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, seafood, or something unique like flaming sushi or a 3D dining experience, Joburg has something for everyone.
Which of these restaurants have you tried? Let me know in the comments!