Vegetarians often feel left out in the cold when it comes to dining out. Very few restaurants cater specifically for vegetarians and those that do often don’t put much thought into their veggie options. We felt it would be a great idea to take note of those venues that are producing top quality meat-free nosh and, at the same time, point the vegetarians in their general direction!
1.Shayona
The web is abuzz with compliments for this simple diner in Mayfair. Run by devotees of the Hindu Guru Swarmi Narayan, you’ll often find Hare Krishnas frequenting this spot to indulge in their wide range of vegetarian curries, pastas and pizzas, not to mention the sweetmeats they are famous for!
2. Greenside Cafe
Greenside Cafe’s name is almost synonymous with vegetarian and vegan cuisine in Johannesburg. This is food prepared with love, not only for the ingredients but for the environment. The cafe has won the ‘Best Vegetarian Menu’ twice in a row in the People’s Choice Awards and it’s said the non-vegetarians are just as crazy about the food as their counterparts!
3. Gingko
Apart from the bustle of the city in peaceful Parkview you can truly relax in the natural space & enjoy a wholesome meal. Nourishment is the core focus of their menu, but there is a real element of artistry in their preparation & presentation. You can feel comfortable eating in the knowledge that they are doing all they can to limit their environmental impact. Read the story behind Gingko here.
4. Fresh Earth Food Store
Health & sustainability are once again top priority at this quaint Emmarentia shop and cafe. It’s said that chef Matthew Ballenden can transform the most dour sounding ingredients into chic, mouth-watering deliciacies like raw chocolate mousse cake, made with avocado! The mezze platters and meat-free burgers are also popular!
5. In the Raw
A unique additions to the health food scene in Joburg, In the Raw is aims to make 80 percent of it’s dishes raw, with a few less raw options. The idea behind it is one that’s been gaining in popularity worldwide in recent years – that raw food & juices are the ultimate way to ingest maximum nutrients directly into your bloodstream. Expect fun combinations of fresh, natural ingredients like veggie sushi handrolls & flaxseed base pizza.
