The Best New Restaurants in Durban
Durban is a tourist’s haven with it being a coastal town. It also comes with an evergreen food and drink scene, with various new restaurants to try out. Here are our top five:
Bean Bag Jazz Lounge
Florida Road is jazzed up again with the return of its legendary Bean Bag Jazz Lounge in November 2024. Yes, they’re back, reclaiming the title of Durban’s go-to destination for live music, good food and good vibes. Here, every night promises something new. Thursdays through to Sundays will become the highlight of your week every week. First up are the Bohemia Nights on Thursdays. Then, Fridays are Live Jazz Nights; Saturday evenings are Better with Jazz Nights; and finally, Sundays are for Soul Sessions. The latter starts at 13:00, with Bean Bag serving a delightful Sunday Buffet.
Kali Restaurant
As one of the best new restaurants in town, Kali brings something vibrantly exciting and unique right to the heart of the uMhlanga strip. This fusion restaurant – which opened its doors in July last year – found a balance between exotic Pan-Asian flavours, styles and cultures and creates an incredible culinary sensation. In essence, the restaurant is a true cosmopolitan venue, boasting an eclectic mix of cuisine and social milieu. In addition, the food is a brave concept executed with perfection.
Black Bistro Lounge & Cocktail Kitchen
Black Lounge found a home at the Oceans Mall in uMhlanga. It joins the thriving restaurant scene with delightful dishes accompanied by signature cocktails. As one of Durban’s new restaruants, they source only local ingredients of the finest quality. Their breakfast, lunch and dinner options are always fresh and ready to impress. Whether you need a spot for a date night, casual drinks, after-work meetings or to celebrate a special occasion, there is something for everyone at Black Bistro Lounge & Cocktail Kitchen.
Grimaldi’s Cucina and Sushi Bar
Having found a home at Durban Country Club, Grimaldi’s Cucina & Sushi Bar followed in the footsteps of its sister restaurant in uMhlanga. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, this new restaurant offers indoor and al fresco dining. The style of the restaurant was inspired by the Amalfi Coast in Italy. With a nod to Italian cuisine, Grimaldi’s has a large range of antipasta options, traditional mains like pizza and pasta, a Jack Salmon-inspired sushi selection and delicious Italian desserts.
Café Sparrow
At Café Sparrow, diners can choose between the cosy indoor setting, or a picturesque outdoor deck overlooking a serene natural lake. According to the owner, sparrows symbolise joy, creativity and companionship. This sentiment rings true at Café Sparrow too, as it is the perfect spot for gatherings with friends or family, quiet business meetings or romantic dinners.
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