Joburgers don’t dwell languidly over their meals like Capetonians do. Maybe that’s why, despite the enormous size of the city, there are still more fine dining options in Cape Town? Maybe the best chefs just prefer to be in the more inspiring environment of the Cape? Either way, the foodie scene in Jozi is an altogether different space! It’s a ‘be seen’ scene, where politicians, moguls and shmoozers gather over single malts rather than Chardonnay…
1. DW Eleven-13
Marthinus Ferreira’s award-winning restaurant is contemporary, yet classic, featuring a small but diverse menu that changes regularly & includes daily seasonal specials that can be matched with a fantastic selection of wines. The only Johannesburg restaurant to be included in the prestigious Eat Out Top 10 for the last two years running, DW Eleven-13 has been described as a gastronomic sensation.
2. Cube Tasting Kitchen
Artistic and innovative, Cube Tasting Kitchen is the brainchild of celebrity chef Dario de Angeli. A first for Joburg, the restaurant offers a unique, constantly changing tasting menu of around 20 courses based on colours or textures – all of which demonstrate marvellous precision & technique. Dario charms his intimate gathering of diners each time with his passionate descriptions of each dish.
3. La Belle Terrasse
Set inside one of Johannesburg’s landmark hotels, The Westcliff, La Belle Terrasse has made a comeback with the help of chef extraordinaire Klaus Beckmann. Most who visit this restaurant are left as in awe of the cuisine as they are the magnificent view of the zoo gardens below. The menu features some authentic African treats as well as a selection of elegant and exquisite dishes like de-boned whole trout with rocket, orange, chickpeas and pomegranate sauce.
4. Ami Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Ami aims to delight on every level, from the deliciously stylish decor that mirrors the plating to the enormous selection of rare champagnes. The small a la carte menu is regularly updated and has an Asian-fusion style leaning towards classic French. Old black & white movies play out like wallpaper and a custom TUK-TUK will chauffeur you to your parking. (Read our interview with owner Tiaan Els here!)
5. Thomas Maxwell Bistro
The loyal following doesn’t lie and Thomas Maxwell certainly has that. The bistro’s popularity lies in the intimate dining experience that culminates in magnificent signature dishes like the famous steaming mussels & pommes frites with garlic, lemon & parsley cream. Chef Thomas Barker & his team don’t stay behind the scenes but prefer to get up close to their clientelle, describing the day’s specials and recommending suitable wines.
See our FULL Collection of Johannesburg’s swankiest & tastiest restaurants here!
