CITY GUIDE: Best Joburg Munch Spots [updated August 2025]
Ever find yourself wondering where to go in Joburg for a bite to eat? Well, these munch spots are top of the #HelloRecommends list.
Aduna Bistro
Nestled in the heart of Melrose Arch, Aduna Bistro is a culinary haven that exudes elegance and charm. Housed within the African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel, this upscale dining spot combines contemporary style with warm hospitality. The ambiance is both inviting and sophisticated, with modern chandeliers casting a soft glow over neutral-toned furnishings and vibrant, bird-themed artworks adorning the walls. Before you even glance at the menu, you’re greeted by an irresistible dessert table featuring oversized cakes and cookies that beg to be sampled.
Besos Restaurant
Step into Besos and discover a restaurant that’s as much about atmosphere as it is about culinary delights. Offering a versatile menu that spans from brunch to dinner, this trendy eatery serves up a mix of contemporary and classic dishes, all crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re indulging in their signature dishes or exploring their expertly curated wine list, Besos guarantees a memorable meal. The interior design is chic, yet comfortable, making it an ideal spot for both casual outings and special occasions. With its impeccable service and vibrant ambiance, Besos is a must-visit destination for Joburg foodies.
Filotimo Greek Taverna
Transport yourself to the heart of Greece with a visit to Filotimo Greek Taverna, a vibrant and authentic eatery that celebrates the essence of Greek culture. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by décor reminiscent of a traditional taverna, complete with bold colours and rustic touches. The menu is a treasure trove of Mediterranean flavours, featuring crowd-pleasers like mezze platters, moussaka and the must-try Kataifi – a nutty pastry drenched in aromatic honey syrup. Add to that live music on weekends and you have the perfect recipe for a festive, family-style dining experience that’s both delicious and unforgettable.
Chief’s Boma at Indaba Hotel
A meal at Chief’s Boma at the Indaba Hotel becomes a memory. This 300-seater restaurant offers an authentic taste of Africa, with a buffet that features everything from traditional stews to flavourful grilled meats. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by African-inspired interiors and live entertainment, creating a vibrant setting that’s perfect for families, tourists or anyone looking to immerse themselves in local culture. Don’t miss the dessert station, where sweet treats await to complete your culinary journey.
Bellinis
Standing the test of time, Bellinis in Johannesburg’s Illovo suburb was first opened in 1992. Some three decades later, it is still the talk of the town when it comes to memorable food experiences. Their popular dishes include options like Fillet Suzette, Blue Cheese Salad and Fresh Salmon Potato Rosti. They also have an extensive cake menu with signature sweet creations like Carrot Cake, White Vanilla Cake and their Chocolate Cashew Nut Cake. With friendly staff and an unbeatable legacy, Bellinis is waiting to host you.
Lacuna Bistro & Bar
Nestled within The Maslow Hotel, Lacuna Bistro & Bar is the signature restaurant in the lobby of this 4-star, internationally renowned hotel. Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Lacuna Bistro is ready to serve you locally sourced, bistro-style cuisine. Their à la carte menu features a bit of everything, all seasoned and garnished from their rooftop herb garden. Overlooking The Maslow’s manicured gardens whilst escaping the roaring sounds of Rivonia Road, Lacuna Bistro & Bar offers culinary delights paired with spectacular cocktails.
The Prawnery
The Prawnery is renowned for its bold fusion of flavours alongside a captivating dining experience. Situated at the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank, it has found a home in the heartthrob district of Joburg. The sea meets flames at The Prawnery, with their Robata Grill serving up unique dishes from its ceiling-high flames. In fact, this grill is the centre of the restaurant – both physically and metaphorically. The chefs heat things up with their signature sushi, delightful prawns, a range of meat dishes and other seafood spreads, offering some of the best flavour creations in the culinary space.
The Sushi Club by George
As an extension of George’s Grill House, The Sushi Club by George delves into the Asian side of life. The vibrant interior sits in a curved structure with wooden finishes and halfmoon-shaped menus. As the name suggests, The Sushi Club offers casual and signature sushi to suit everyone’s taste. They also have an extensive wine list and Japanese spirits and beer.
Pret A Manger
The hustle and bustle of Jozi is perfect for an on-the-go café like Pret A Manger. It brings with it a refreshing English culture whilst also adding a twist of South African flavour. As the first of its kind in South Africa, Pret A Manger found a home in the artistic hub of Melrose Arch. Pret’s menu features a diverse range of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, salads and snacks. Signature offerings include the Soutvleis Sandwich, Chakalaka Chicken Wrap, Braaibroodjie Toastie, Boerie Breakfast Bowl and Peppermint Crisp Pot.
The Greenhouse
Sandton’s foodie scene just got upgraded with The Greenhouse becoming the new home of the legendary Shortmarket Club. The Greenhouse in Sandton is known as Joburg’s pioneering supper club – a concept that reimagines experiences to seamlessly flow from one to the other. Here, sundowner cocktails evolve into decadent dinners which later become late-night dancing. In fact, the space constantly adapts to the vibe of the night, with patrons setting the scene. The space’s newly launched menu boasts dishes from South African chef, Siya Mlaba, who cleverly combines Mediterranean, French and Asian cuisine. This menu hails from none other than Shortmarket Club, a fine-dining experience that delivers elevated culinary masterpieces.
Cyra Restaurant
Recently named Eat Out’s New Restaurant of the Year, Cyra Restaurant at The Houghton Hotel has embraced the colder months by launching their Winter Menu. Pioneered by Chef Candice Phillip, the menu is a symphony of seasonal flavours crafted with restraint, emotion and extraordinary finesse. She has woven a narrative throughout her menu, using subtle heat, grounded textures and organic ingredients to unfold a winter wonderland narrative that reimagines elegant winter chic.
Settebello
Visit this cosy, vibrant and authentic Italian restaurant in the heart of the East Rand. They embody a philosophy centred around uniting friends, family and loved ones over delectable, home-cooked cuisine. Owned by two brothers who are passionate about their cultural heritage, they offer more than just a hearty meal. Their La Ciccia adventure takes you around Northern Italy, delving into the most famous cuisine in each region. More so, they offer pasta-making classes to get you involved in the art of Italian delicacies. You are sure to leave with a full stomach, warmed heart and contented soul.
Sass Café
Sass Cafe’s inaugural venture into South Africa began in Johannesburg and marks the beginning of a series of something different, something fresh and something all-embracing for patrons from diverse backgrounds. Rooted in a deep passion for food, people, and community, this Mediterranean inspired cuisine is flavourful, tasteful and exquisitely balanced. It forms part of a lifestyle district which also boasts a beauty salon, padel courts, office buildings and shopping facilities. Enjoy a night out with friends or bring the children for a sunny afternoon playdate. It is a place for al fresco business lunches or a date night with someone special.
P.S. Their white hot chocolate is the best in town and with bonfires and blankets on request, Sass Café is perfect for winter nights.
The Old Oak Restaurant & Family Centre
Overlooking the award-winning golf course at the Royal Johannesburg Country Club, the Old Oak is a symbol showcasing the club’s abundant offering, history, tradition, values and service. Indulge in the finest flavours where every meal is a masterpiece. Whether you’re celebrating with family and friends or just enjoying a quiet evening, their legendary hospitality, attention to detail and great food will afford you a culinary experience like no other. Their focus is on paying tribute to our diverse culture with a menu made up of the finest local ingredients that has something to offer for everyone. As their namesake is rooted in nature, their décor reflects it throughout the space. Trees surrounding the restaurant, refined tree-stumps as sculptures and nature-inspired artworks don the walls, while their fireplaces are perfect for cooler months.
RocoMamas
Founded in Johannesburg in July 2013, RocoMamas has become South Africa’s smashburger sensation. Embracing its bold local roots, the brand’s funky Rock ’n’ Roll décor, open kitchen and unique ethos have flipped the fast-food script. Here, each custom-made smashburger, wing basket and rack of ribs celebrates hands-on South African culinary style and a homegrown flavour revolution.
ZORZ Luxury Chisanyama
At ZORZ Luxury Chisanyama in Midrand, South Africa’s chisanyama tradition is elevated to luxury dining. Born from local slang (ZORZ means food) the restaurant blends flame grilled meats, chakalaka and pap with gourmet service and stylish vibes. Here, every platter and every side dish echo South African culture, honouring local flavours and that communal ubuntu spirit you’ll struggle to find elsewhere.
MOTE
At MOTE in Joburg’s Pineslopes, South African heritage meets Afrofusion dining in a vibrant, tribal-inspired setting. This stylish dining and drinks destination blends bold, local flavours – from flame grilled meats to spiced stews – with a welcoming social ethos. With its chic décor, crafted cocktails and curated menu, MOTE celebrates the unity and diversity of South African culture.
Tribes African Grill & Steakhouse
At Tribes African Grill & Steakhouse, located inside Emperor’s Palace, South African and African culinary traditions converge in luxurious style. Since 2000, this grillhouse has honoured its roots with flame grilled game meats like kudu, ostrich and impala, as well as classic boerewors, oxtail stews and coastal seafood options. Rich tribal interiors, warm hospitality and celebration of local culture make every visit a true South African experience.
Kota Joe Roadhouse
Kota Joe Roadhouse, founded in 2011, revives South Africa’s classic roadhouse culture with a modern twist. Known for its signature kotas – hollowed-out bread filled with fries, meat, eggs and sauce – this vibrant eatery offers a nostalgic, yet contemporary dining experience. With locations across Gauteng, Kota Joe celebrates South African street food in a dynamic, family-friendly setting.
