3 Best Restaurants in Parkhurst and Parktown North, Johannesburg

Although Parkhurst is known for the countless restaurants that line 4th Avenue, the refined space at Embarc is in a league of its own, making fine dining accessible to all through its relaxed environment. Fusing high-quality local produce and artisan products with international flavors, coupled with a thoughtful combination of contrasting flavors and hues, creates delectable dishes that can be eaten as starters or shared as mains. Embarc is owned by a chef-sommelier duo who pay utmost attention to every aspect of this welcoming establishment. Highly recommended, especially if you only have one night out on the town.

It's hard to find a table inside without a dinner booking (even during the week) at this father-and-son-owned restaurant, simply because the food always delivers on taste, portion size, and how it's plated. The jovial crowd and pastel colors reminiscent of a Modena sunset add to the flavor of their modern Italian fare. With handmade pasta by the chef's son Vassilios Holiasmeno and Neapolitan-style pizzas (the kind where the dough is left to rise for at least two days before being wood-fired) on the menu, you can't go wrong for a quick breakfast bite, hearty lunch, or a romantic dinner date at this corner eatery, where locals return again and again.

This easygoing, unpretentious café serves only breakfast, brunch, and lunch, but is always busy, mostly because the food is so fresh and good. Breakfast is a specialty—do try one of their six wholesome breakfast egg baskets—but you could also pop by for high tea and a taste of their homemade cakes. The croissants are also good, as are their home-baked pies, and the popular half and half—a mixture of a egg basket and crumpets.