Review: ROAR Bistro
Raindrops were still finding their way down on the large windows overlooking Sandton’s bustling Maude Street, highlighting twinkling lights in the background. It was late afternoon and we’d just arrived for an early dinner, excited about what RAOR Bistro had in store.
Owned by the Legacy Group, this streetside dining destination has become a favourite among locals and tourists alike, luring those seeking authentic cuisine with a twist. While the word ‘bistro’ might tempt you to expect French-inspired cuisine, we recommend you come open-minded as the menu will take you on a different journey than what you might expect. In fact, the only thing French about this restaurant is their Parisian-style streetside seating.
Tap into the Vibe at ROAR Bistro
With rich blue and orange colours, the space invites you to explore the riches of Africa in a new light, right in the heart of Sandton. Located across the Sandton Convention Centre, it’s an easy spot to relax at over lunch or dinner, to meet up with other delegates or to confer with contacts made across the road.
In essence, ROAR Bistro’s setup allows for comfortable cocktails at their lounge area, elegant glasses of bubbly at the bar, streetside tapas at their outdoor seating, or cosy indoor dining with large windows offering spectacular Joburg views. And, lots of greenery keeps the space homely and inviting, with ferns hanging from the ceiling and palm trees livening up various corners.
Cuisine with Africa at its Core
Reflecting its technicolour lion logo and the name, ROAR, this bistro’s menu is filled with authentic African options. In fact, it pays homage to South Africa’s various facets. From delicious seafood selections to hearty meat dishes that speak to the country’s hospitality, and everything in between.
Whilst you can expect high-end cuisine at ROAR Bistro, it’s the emotions the dishes stir inside of you that will make your memories of each dining moment last.
Indulging in Nostalgia at ROAR Bistro
We kicked off the evening with a glass of bubbly each – the bubbles complementing the raindrops and twinkling city lights outside. This was coupled with a selection of small plates – a simplistic dish of Steamed Mussels with White Wine, Lemongrass, Cream and Crispy Croutons, and their delightful Arancini, which were Deep-fried Risotto Balls with a Mushroom, Crème Fraîche and Edamame Bean filling.
While ROAR Bistro’s vegetarian options were very tempting, especially since it was a mid-week visit, we could not resist the Seared Salmon and the Tomahawk Steak. The salmon came with Pea Purée, Chorizo Black Rice, Pepper Aioli, Braised Baby fennel and Salsa Verde – a dish we can highly recommend. Their Tomahawk Steak – a very generous helping – was served with Biltong Butter and Fries. In addition, we could choose between the Green Peppercorn Sauce or their Mushroom Sauce. Traditionalists that we often are, we opted for the latter, which complemented the steak brilliantly.
Finally – considering the portion sizes – dessert was not on the cards for us. But, with choices of Tiramisu, Chocolate Fondant, Malva Pudding and Cheesecake, the temptation was certainly real.
As we sipped on our Americanos to end off an evening of true African indulgence amidst elegant chandeliers, velvet chairs and brightly coloured wall art, we not only felt inspired, but also grateful to be living in a country so rich in culture and colour.
With cuisine that tantalizes your taste buds and touches your soul, ROAR Bistro is a must for locals and tourists alike.
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