Joburg’s culinary scene has long since made a name for itself, not only throughout the country and across Africa, but on the international stage, too. From new fine dining establishments bringing refreshing takes on unique ingredients, to Cape Town cults braving the inner city, and high-flying jazz spots overlooking the City of Gold, there’s an eatery for everyone. Here’s a list of the newest kids on the block you must check out.
1. Hugh’s Jazz Club
Draped in stunning red velvet, low lights shine homage on the legacy of Hugh Masekela in the bustling suburb of Braamfontein. Seemingly floating thirteen floors above the city, Hugh’s is an intimate space “where the sound of a horn that once carried through struggle and celebration finds a new voice,” – Hugh’s. Feel the music with the crowd while indulging in their sophisticated menu, serving small bites to mains, including a charcuterie board perfect for sharing, to the classic fish and chips.
- Where: Level 13, 10 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
- Opening times: Thursdays, 18:00 to midnight
- Contact details: hughs.co.za
2. The Naked Woolf
Born from the shared vision of experienced hospitality experts, Yanky Woolf and Sean Haarhoff, The Naked Woolf is a confident new player in the evening dining scene. The experienced duo (well known for their concept, The Wild Side) have created an indulgent and instinctive nightlife sanctuary, with a distinct New York flair: think masculine, dark, and sexy. “The Naked Woolf combines fine hospitality with a touch of wickedness,” – The Naked Woolf. Indulge in dangerous cocktails and a range of delicious mains.
- Where: Rosebank Quarter, 9 Walters Street, Rosebank, Johannesburg
- Opening times: Wednesdays to Saturdays, 12:00 to 23:00
- Contact details: thenakedwoolf.co.za
3. Annexe Bistro
Nestled in the quaint, yet up-and-coming suburb of Blairgowrie, the Annexe Bistro is offering up an ever-evolving menu led by acclaimed Chef Freddie Dias. This intimate 30-seater space, the newest addition from the team behind the loved Mr Pants Wine Bar, offers a warm, neighbourhood dining experience that feels both familiar and refined. Ensure you book a table to avoid disappointment.
- Where: Delta Central, corner of Conrad Drive and Hillcrest Avenue, Blairgowrie, Johannesburg
- Opening times: Wednesday and Thursday, from 18:00 to 21:00; and Friday to Saturday, from 12:00-15:00 and 18:00-21:00
- Contact details: @annexe_bistro
3. Alostro Coffee Club
More than just a café, Alostro Coffee Club is “a purpose-driven coffee space rooted in dignity, community, and conscious living. We serve carefully crafted artisanal coffee using beans sourced from multiple origins, paired with a thoughtfully curated food menu designed to suit a wide range of tastes. Alostro is a place to connect, pause, and enjoy quality coffee in a welcoming, community-focused setting.”
- Where: Shop 17, The Marc, 129 Rivonia Road, Sandown, Sandton
- Opening times: Monday to Friday, 06:30-18:00; Saturday, 08:00-16:00; and Sunday, 08:00-15:00
- Contact details: @alostrocoffeeclub
4. Kárvouno Restaurant
A new Greek charcoal-grill restaurant in Bedfordview that celebrates the ancient art of cooking over glowing embers. The kitchen draws rich, smoky flavours from its charcoal grill, pairing them with seasonal ingredients and well-known Greek flair.
- Where: Bedfordview Crossing Shopping Centre, 85 Boeing Road, Bedfordview
- Opening times: Daily, from 11:00-22:00
- Contact details: karvouno.co.za
5. Flute
Experience vibrant Afro-fusion dining, celebrating bold African flavours with contemporary flair. Look forward to a range of delicious starters and mains, including their plantain roll with spicy mayo starter, and Ndolé with peanuts and prawns main.
- Where: The Marc Shopping Centre, C/O Maude Street, Rivonia Road, Sandton
- Opening times: Daily, 12:00-02:00
- Contact details: [email protected] or 073 138 8217
6. Die Pienk Kerk
This new café and art gallery is housed in a chapel built in 1903, situated in Melville. It’s unmistakable pink Melville landmark has been reborn into a whimsical restaurant, coffee shop and art gallery. Pop in over a weekend for a vibey, artsy experience.
- Where: 24 Chatou Road, Richmond, Melville
- Opening times: Tuesday to Wednesday, 08:00-18:00; Thursday to Saturday, 08:00-21:00; Sunday, 08:00-16:00
- Contact details: @diepienkkerk
7. Zuney Wagyu
This Cape Town cult favourite burger joint has made its way to Joburg. Starting out as a small crew flipping fresh Wagyu patties directly from the outfit’s valley farm, Zuney Wagyu quickly became known for its lacy-edged smashed burgers. Now, having opened another spot in Nine Yards retail space in Rosebank, Joburgers have jumped on the bandwagon, sinking their teeth into perfectly seared smashed Wagyu patty, topped with fried onions, cheese, pickles, and a secret sauce – all safely laid in a soft, milk bun.
- Where: Nine Yards, 167 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North
- Opening times: Monday to Sunday, 12:00-23:00
- Contact details: zuneyburgers.com
8. The Salt Road
The Salt Road is all about combining the spirit of the Cape Winelands with the wild heartbeat of Joburg. “An unforgettable culinary destination nestled within the tranquil surrounds of Houghton Estate. More than a restaurant, The Salt Road is a curated symphony of flavour, space, and story, crafted for those who travel the world in search of singular moments,” – The Salt Road. Chefs Craig Cormack and Beau du Toit have curated an immersive experience that traces the global “salt road” through wine and food – showcasing ancient preservation techniques.
- Where: 10 2nd Avenue, Houghton Estate, Houghton
- Opening times: Monday to Friday, 06:30-22:00; Saturday and Sunday, 07:00-22:00
- Contact details: thesaltroad.co.za
9. Bull Hot Pot
Look forward to clean, delicate hot pots, designed to enhance ingredients, rather than overpowering them. Bull Hot Pot serves up authentic Chaoshan cuisine from China’s Guangdong province. Guests have a choice of soup base (from rich and spicy to delicate and aromatic), before adding their chosen combinations of meat, seafood, noodles and vegetables. Their space features elegant finishes, soft lighting and traditional Shand Shui Chinese paintings.
- Where: Rivonia Village Shopping Centre, Rivonia Boulevard and Mutual Road, Rivonia, Sandton
- Opening times: Daily, 11:00-16:00
- Contact details: call or WhatsApp 076 031 5777
10. Alma
Alma is brought to us by the creators of Besos and Gaucho, aiming to showcase the exemplary produce of land, sea and air. Alma has reimagined the traditional steakhouse with a contemporary twist – offering a refined, yet relaxed dining experience that’s all about the primal beauty of cooking with fire. Look forward to shareable starters and pizzetas, to flame-grilled, locally and internationally farmed Wagyu meats.
- Where: The Woods Shopping Centre, 345 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall Park, Randburg
- Opening times: Daily, 12:00-22:00
- Contact details: almajhb.com
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