Best Restaurants in Johannesburg: Best of Joburg Awards

South African chefs and foodies share their best restaurants in Johannesburg alongside the Readers’ Choice picks in the latest Best of Joburg Awards.

The Perfect Steak

When he’s not running his own Bistro Michel, Chef Michel Morand often frequents The Local Grill in Parktown North “for the best steak in Joburg”.

Shisa Nyama

“I discovered Panyaza, the shisa nyama joint in Soweto, when filming an episode for the second season of Ultimate Braai Master, where the contestants had to cook for the Beast as well as the local community. If it’s good enough for the Beast, it’s good enough for me,” says Chef Justin Bonello. (Panyaza: 082-937-5534)

Best Fish Deli

Chef and owner of Olives and Plates, Andria Neophytou, buys his fish fresh from the Fisherman’s Deli (voted Best Fish Deli). Why? “It never disappoints! The selection feels as if I’m at the coast picking up my fish straight out of the sea.”

Sensational Seafood

Author of Market Food SA, Jessica Cairns is a big seafood fan. “The calamari and sushi at Fishmonger in the Thrupps Centre are firm family favourites. The white tablecloths and friendly waiters help add some sophistication to a weekend meal with kids!”

Date Night Delight

If Instagrammer Steve Seinfeld (@TheJoburgFoodie) wants to impress, he heads to the Winehouse @ Ten Bompas for date night. “The restaurant offers a three-course fine-dining menu at a really reasonable price, the setting is beautiful and it has a superb selection of top-class wines.”

Gourmet Goodies

When local gourmet bread maker, Babette Frances, of Babette’s Bread, is looking for gourmet treats, she always pops into the Service Station Café in Melville (in the Bamboo Centre). “It has the best cheeses, cold meats, bread, foodie gifts and cooking utensils and a wonderful atmosphere.” (011-726-1701)

Garden Tea Spot

When Brad Meiring, of organic-food delivery service Munching Mongoose, is not foraging for fresh produce, he loves to have tea at Second Cup. “It’s a quiet little garden café set alongside craft shops and an indigenous nursery. It also has other cafés at different venues, but this one is in a wonderful garden setting.” (011-679-4665)

Get your hands on a copy of this month’s ‘Get It Joburg North’ or visit their website for the free Best of Joburg booklet – your guide to all the best foodie spots in Joburg.