The Best Food and Drink in Johannesburg

As South Africa’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Johannesburg is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines and drinks. From traditional African dishes to international favourites, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down dinner, there’s something to tantalise your taste buds. Read on to find out the best food and drink in Johannesburg!

Traditional African Dishes

For a taste of traditional African cuisine, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Mzoli’s Place. This popular eatery in the Gugulethu township serves up dishes like chakalaka (a spicy tomato relish), umngqusho (maize and beans) and tripe. The restaurant is also known for its meaty braais, or barbecues.

For a more upscale experience, try Moyo Melrose Arch. This chic African-themed restaurant serves classic dishes like bobotie (a spicy mince pie), sosaties (a type of kebab) and Cape Malay curries. The restaurant also offers a selection of South African wines, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, the street food in Johannesburg is sure to hit the spot. Try a samoosa (a savoury pastry filled with spiced mince) or a bunny chow (a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry). For a sweet treat, don’t miss the koeksisters (deep-fried plaited dough soaked in syrup).

International Cuisine

Johannesburg is also a great place for international cuisine. If you’re in the mood for Italian, head to La Boqueria in Sandton. This chic Italian eatery offers a range of classic dishes, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, making it the perfect spot for date night.

If you’re craving something from East Asia, check out the Asian fusion restaurants in Parkhurst. For Japanese cuisine, head to Yuzu or Kiyami. Here you’ll find dishes like sushi, tempura, ramen and more. For Chinese cuisine, try the Dim Sum & Dumpling Co or Peking Chinese Restaurant. Both offer a range of traditional dishes, from steamed dumplings to stir-fried noodles.

If you’re looking for something a little more exotic, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Middle Eastern eateries in Rosebank. Here you’ll find shawarma (meat cooked on a rotisserie), falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), and Middle Eastern pastries like baklava and knafeh.

Cafes & Bistros

Johannesburg is home to a thriving cafe and bistro scene. For a classic brunch experience, head to the Café on the Square in Sandton. This chic bistro serves up dishes like eggs Benedict, French toast and pancakes. The restaurant also has an extensive coffee menu, so you can get your caffeine fix too.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more unusual, try The Whippet in Maboneng. This hip cafe serves up dishes like PB&J french toast and açai bowls. The coffee here is also excellent, so it’s the perfect spot for a mid-morning pick-me-up.

For a laid-back lunch spot, head to the Vovo Telo bakery in Melville. This beloved bakery serves up freshly baked bread, pastries, and savoury tarts. The cafe also offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, making it the perfect place to while away an afternoon.

Drinks & Nightlife

Johannesburg’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse. For a classy evening out, head to the rooftop bars in Rosebank. Here you’ll find sophisticated spots like The Orbit and The Uptown. Both offer stunning views of the city, along with an extensive drinks menu.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, try the craft beer bars in Parkhurst. Here you’ll find places like The Beerhouse, which offers a range of local and international craft beers. The bar also serves pub grub, so you can soak up the beer with some delicious snacks.

If you’re in the mood for cocktails, head to the bars in Maboneng. Here you’ll find unique spots like The Steamworks, which serves up steampunk-style cocktails. The bar also has an impressive selection of craft beers, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

Desserts & Sweet Treats

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Johannesburg’s got you covered. For a classic South African dessert, head to the Banting Café in Melville. This cosy cafe serves up delicious treats like malva pudding and koeksisters (deep-fried plaited dough soaked in syrup).

For something more modern, try the ice cream parlours in Parkhurst. Here you’ll find spots like The Creamery, which serves up unique flavours like salted caramel and peanut butter and jelly. The parlour also has an extensive selection of vegan and dairy-free options, so everyone can indulge.

If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, try the chocolate shops in Rosebank. Here you’ll find places like the Chocoloza, which serves up handmade truffles and chocolate bars. The shop also has an extensive selection of sweet treats, from macarons to marshmallows.

Markets & Food Halls

Johannesburg is home to several bustling markets and food halls. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein. This popular market has stalls offering dishes like samoosas, bunny chows and bobotie. The market also has an array of craft beers and ciders, making it the perfect spot for a weekend brunch.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more international, try the Fordsburg Food Hall. This vibrant market has stalls offering dishes from around the world, from sushi to tacos. The food hall also has a bar, so you can grab a craft beer or cocktail while you eat.

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try the Market on Main in Maboneng. This chic food hall has stalls offering dishes like dumplings, dim sum, burgers and more. The market also has several bars, so you can grab a craft beer or cocktail while you eat.

Takeaways & Fast Food

If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, Johannesburg has plenty of takeaway options. For a classic South African fast food, try the Bunny Chow in Braamfontein. This popular spot serves up delicious bunnies (hollowed-out loaves of bread filled with curry) and samoosas (savoury pastries filled with spiced mince).

If you’re in the mood for something a little more international, try the Street Kitchen in Parkhurst. This food truck serves up dishes like tacos, burritos and quesadillas. The truck also has an impressive selection of craft beers, so you can get your weekend buzz on.

If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, try the burger joints in Rosebank. Here you’ll find popular spots like the Burger Bistro, which serves up juicy burgers and loaded fries. The restaurant also has an extensive drinks menu, so you can get your weekend buzz on.

Fine Dining

For an unforgettable dining experience, head to the fine dining restaurants in Sandton. Here you’ll find spots like Marble, which serves up dishes like steak tartare, seared scallops and truffle risotto. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, so you can pair your meal with the perfect glass of vino.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more exotic, try the Indian restaurants in Parkhurst. Here you’ll find places like Punjab Dhaba, which serves up traditional dishes like butter chicken, tandoori lamb and palak paneer. The restaurant also has an extensive drinks menu, so you can get your weekend buzz on.

For a truly unique experience, try the molecular gastronomy restaurants in Maboneng. Here you’ll find spots like The Test Kitchen, which serves up dishes like smoked salmon served in a test tube and beef tartare served on a foam. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, so you can pair your meal with the perfect glass of vino.

Conclusion

Johannesburg is a city of contrasts, with something to cater to every taste. Whether you’re looking for traditional African food, international cuisine, street food or fine dining, the city has something to tantalise your taste buds. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the best food and drink in Johannesburg!