From nose-to-tail eating; to Mexican food; and ethical, eco-friendly eateries, here’s our list of on-trend restaurants in Joburg, Cape Town, and Durban.
The National, Johannesburg
Inspired by the farm-to-table approach to eating, James Diack (former Chef Patron of the equally trendy Coobs) has constructed a truly wonderful, cheeky, modern menu – with most of the ingredients sourced from his own family’s farm.
We recommend finishing off your meal with a divine deconstructed tiramisu. This innovative take on the classic Italian dessert is sure to satisfy.
Where: 19 4th Avenue, Park Town North, Johannesburg
When: Monday to Saturday 12:00 to 10:00 pm
Cost: Approximately R515 for two people
Contact: Call 011 327 3030
Conscious 108, Johannesburg
This vegan eatery is the ultimate place in Joburg to grab some meat free fare. They use the latest techniques and on-trend vegan ingredients to create a diverse, delicious menu. The staff are friendly, and the comfortable décor allows for an easy dining experience.
Why not try one of their divine bowls? They provide an absolutely wonderful hearty meal!
Where: 108 Greenway Road, Greenside, Johannesburg
When: Monday and Wednesday to Friday 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Sunday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Cost: Approximately R250 for two people
Contact: 011 646 7250
Try Our Simple Takes on Recipes from MasterChef Australia’s Elena
La Tête, Cape Town
This nose-to-tail restaurant opened last November to critical acclaim. Head Chef Giles Edwards excels in using the whole animal to create dishes with unique and deep flavours. La Tête is truly an adventurous meat-lovers paradise.
Their menu changes daily, but if you’re feeling brave try one of La Tête’s offal options.
Where: 17 Bree Street, Foreshore, Cape Town
When: Tuesday to Friday 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and Saturday 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Cost: Approximately R300 for tow people
Contact: 021 418 1299
House of H, Cape Town
This back-to-basics, self-service restaurant located in the heart of Cape Town’s CBD may well be one of the hottest spots in the Mother City. With a constantly rotating menu, and a dedication to making a few simple dishes to the best of their ability, this is the place to be if you want good, simple, street food.
The menu changes every day, but if they’re serving their 16 hour slow roast brisket sandwich, it is an absolute must!
Where: 112 Loop Street, CBD, Cape Town
When: Monday to Saturday 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
Cost: Approximately R300 for two people
Contact: 076 699 6146
El Toro, Durban
Mexican food remains one of the hottest food trends right now, and residents of Durban North are extremely fortunate to have El Toro around the corner. They serve up a delicious array of tapas and other sharing dishes make it the perfect spot to have a fiesta with friends!
Not only does El Toro have amazing dishes, they also have a huge selection of different tequilas and imported beers to really get the party started.
Where: 5 Mackeurtan Avenue, Durban North, Durban
When: Tuesday to Thursday 12:00 to 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 12:00 to 11:45 pm, Sunday 12:00 to 4:00 pm
Cost: Approximately R290 for two people
Contact: 031 564 3015
Also Read: The 13 Best Maboneng Restaurants
The Chef’s Table, Durban
An open plan kitchen lets diners watch the chefs cook their meals, creating a real connection between them. The Chef’s Table combines this ingenious concept, with simple, brilliantly prepared haute cuisine.
Being on the coast, the fresh seafood here is spectacular. Try their ocean floor inspired combination of calamari, prawns, edible sand, and salt foam, brought together by a stunning prawn bisque.
Where: Protea Mall, Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban
When: Monday to Saturday 12:00 to 2:30 pm and 6:00 to 10:00 pm, and Sunday 12:00 to 2:30 pm
Cost: Approximately R400 for two people
Contact: 031 001 0200
If you ever find yourself in Johannesburg, be sure to check out The 20 Best Restaurants in Midrand.
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