11 Best Restaurants in Johannesburg, South Africa

Set in manicured, terraced gardens that stretch out onto paddocks where grazing Friesian horses idle away afternoons, the family-owned Black Horse Restaurant predominantly serves bistro staples like burgers and wood-fired pizzas, though Stables Café, open during the week, can easily accommodate walk-ins. While you’re here, you can also do a tasting and tour of the craft brewery, run by one of the country’s youngest female brewers, and gin distillery (one hour, R287.50 for both). It’s such a popular weekend venue for families, bikers, cyclists, and out-of-towners that it’s essential to book if you want to secure a place for lunch.

Kassa and his friendly staff serve up affordable and delectable Ethiopian cuisine at this small restaurant at 44 Stanley—there's a selection of options for meat lovers and vegans (as Ethiopians regularly fast by not eating animal products). Although the decor may be simple, comprising a few photos and paintings of Ethiopia, the food steals the show. Beyaynetu, a vegan combo dish where lentil stew, pumpkin, chickpea gravy, sautéed spinach, curried potatoes, pickled beetroot, and tomato salsa is laid out on injera (a sourdough flat bread). The food is intended to be shared and eaten with your hands. Kassa can show you how, after you thoroughly wash your hands at the outdoor sink (you can also ask for cutlery). Top off your meal with a traditional coffee—after all Ethiopia is said to be the birthplace of coffee. 

This small, casual restaurant offers memorable food and quick, professional service, whether you choose to sit down or grab a quick bite. The atmosphere can be quite noisy and energy-packed, as friends catch up over lunch and businesspeople chat animatedly about work over a plate of legendary potato rostis: try one with smoked salmon or a pepper filet. Many people return to this local favorite, which was founded in 1992 and hasn't changed its menu since.

In a building dating from 1905, Café Riche is one of the better coffee shops in the center of town. It also serves tramezzini (toasted sandwiches) and salads.

Doppio Zero serves wholesome, tasty Mediterranean-inspired meals with ingredients like grilled halloumi, fresh tomato, arugula, avocado, and salmon. More substantial meals such as pastas and pizzas are also on the menu. The outdoor seating is delightful on warm days. This chain of restaurants is found across Johannesburg, but the Rosebank branch is well located if you are peckish after a morning shopping at the nearby Rosebank Art and Craft Market or Rosebank shopping centers.

This cozy, atmospheric restaurant is always busy because of the quality of its food and the gorgeous bucolic murals on its walls that complement the retro design elements, making it oh-so Instagram-worthy. The all-day menu serves breakfast, light lunches, high tea coupled with its in-house baked goods and treats, and dinner. Glenda’s prioritizes seasonal produce and supports local farmers and sustainability efforts, which gives it an even greater appeal. 

Stop by for an on-the-go breakfast or picnic takeaway, or a sit-down coffee and brunch at the old-style Gourmet Grocer. This is a specialist grocer, deli, bakery, coffee shop, and restaurant, all rolled into one, so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a scrumptious bagel, toasted sarmie, healthy snack, or decadent treat from their niche, family-run suppliers. It also sells fresh and frozen homemade meals, and stocks craft beers as well as a decent selection of wines. If you like their coffee, you can buy their Birdhaven blend to take home, which is roasted on-site at Coffefe Coffee Bar & Roastery. It’s within safe walking distance of The Peech Hotel and the James and Ethel Gray Park, and deliveries within a 5 km (3 miles) radius are free.

The grassy plateau of the Highveld makes for a magnificent backdrop for a bite to eat in this charming farmhouse-style setting. Freshly made meals range from boerie naan (think a sausage-stuffed pita) to delicious breakfasts and pizza or house-made baked goods and preserves—every choice is one to remember.

At this Greek taverna, music floats above the buzz of conversation, a souvlaki spit turns slowly near the door, and a refrigerated case displays an array of meze (small appetizers)—which you can also select as a takeaway, if you're on the go. Start with a meze platter of souvlaki, feta, olives imported from Greece, tzatziki, and dolmades, followed by the line fish, grilled on an open flame with olive oil and lemon, or kleftiko (lamb slow-cooked in a clay oven) and a carafe of wine. On weekend evenings, belly dancers perform between the tables against a backdrop of murals of Santorini, and Greek dancers do the Zorba, while patrons partake in "controlled" plate breaking—all while sipping on a glass of ouzo. The dress is casual and the atmosphere very relaxed. Choose from the set or à la carte menus. In summer, most people sit outside beneath the faux grape vines at the street-side tables.

For a time-out from Sandton’s skyscrapers, head to this bistro-style eatery with floor-to-ceiling windows and a living plant wall and planters that give it an urban jungle feel; there's even access to walking paths and a children’s play area. The menu features small plates, hot and cold salads, and a wide selection of main meals (try the Truffles Risotto Fillet) and vegan options. No matter where you choose to enjoy their signature elderflower gin and tonic---be it on the wooden deck or the casual beach area with its reclining benches and sand---you’ll be surrounded by a relaxed atmosphere. 

Across the street from the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, Vilakazi Espresso is recognizable for its geometric Ndebele-inspired mural and colorful graffiti artwork. It serves deep-fried and filled South African vetkoek (dough bread) and sandwiches, along with its wide coffee selection and smoothies.