A vacation is not complete unless you try out the local cuisine and discover the popular eateries of the destination. South Africa is no exception when it comes to this. Major cities in South Africa are home to a variety of restaurants, offering different types of cuisines and dishes. Whether you’re looking for local flavors or international delights, such as American or Mexican cuisine, you can find it all by exploring the highly recommended dining establishments in South Africa.
If you’re unsure about which restaurants to choose, don’t worry. We have curated a list of the best dining spots in South Africa for you.
Top 15 Restaurants In South Africa
Make sure to visit these establishments in Cape Town to savor the finest African dishes and enjoy the delightful ambiance!
1. Pigalle Restaurant: Indulge in Fresh Seafood and Delicious Steaks
With its elegant decor, exceptional food, live music, and vibrant dance floor, Pigalle Restaurant has everything you need to make your evening enchanting and unforgettable. Among the top 15 restaurants in South Africa, Pigalle is a renowned name in the country’s restaurant industry. Apart from Cape Town, the restaurant also has three other fine dining establishments in Sandton, Bedfordview, and Melrose Arch. Known for their steaks and seafood, Pigalle offers the best variations of Mediterranean and European recipes in the city.
Location: Somerset Square, 57 Somerset Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8001, South AfricaMust try: Chalmar steak, Ostrich steak, Crème brule and KingklipOpening hours: 12 noon to 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm to 10:30 pmWebsite | Reviews
2. Seven Spur Steak Ranch: A Steakhouse in Cape Town
Seven Spur Steak Ranch is a well-liked eatery franchises in South Africa, recognized for extremely appetizing burgers, ribs, and steaks. Situated at Sea Point, this is the most frequented spur eatery South Africa possesses. The eatery presents a spacious dining area, ideal for family supper, children’s gatherings, personal dinners, and corporate functions. In addition, they have a designated activity area for kids-The Play Canyon; which guarantees that the children do not experience a boring moment here.
Position: 11 Arthurs Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060, South AfricaMust sample: Pig ribs, Rib hamburger and Char-grilled beefsteak.Working hours: 9 am to 10 pmSite | Evaluations
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3. The Test Kitchen: A Restaurant Of Its Kind
The Test Kitchen is one of the finest restaurants in Cape Town South Africa that offers sophisticated elegant dining experience. Opened in 2010, this is the brainchild of Chef Dale Roberts and consists of the unique concept of Dark Room and Light Room. The Light Room is for sampling menu and informal small talk, while the Dark Room is formal and intended for private and snug dining. If you want to relish delectable dishes and try out one of the best elegant dining restaurants in South Africa, The Test Kitchen.
Position: The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915, South AfricaMust sample: Amuse bouche, Chargrilled scallops and Lamb sweetbreadWorking hours: 6:30 pm to 9 pm. The eatery is closed on Sundays and Mondays.Site | Evaluations
4. Ristorante La Trinita: Appetizing Italian Gastronomy
Amongst the leading Italian restaurant in South Africa, this establishment holds a prominent position. Conveniently located on the ground floor of Kyalami Downs Shopping Centre, Ristorante La Trinita is a definite winner when it comes to authentic and astounding Italian recipes. Commencing from a delectable menu, sophisticated décor to incredibly prompt service, all these characteristics have contributed to making it one of the best restaurants in South Africa. It has also garnered numerous prestigious awards and accolades such as Zomato User’s Choice, Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor, Top Choice Restaurant in Johannesburg, and one of the top 101 dining destinations globally. It is also recognized as one of the finest pizza restaurants in South Africa.
Location: G1A, Kyalami Downs Shopping Centre, Kyalami Boulevard & Main Rd, Kyalami Park, Midrand, 1684, South Africa
Must try: Springbok carpaccio, Panzerotti, and Panna CottaOpening hours: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm and 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm, every day except Mondays.Website | Reviews
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5. Marble Restaurant: Experience the Ideal Fine Dining
Located in Keyes Art Mile, a vibrant Art and Food hub in Johannesburg, Marble Restaurant is an elegant South African eatery that specializes in local and contemporary cuisine. The sophisticated decor, ambiance, meticulously designed menu, and meticulously curated wine collection by David Higgs ensure that you will eagerly return to this restaurant time and time again.
Location: Trumpet on Keyes, 19 Keyes Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South AfricaMust try: Tuna tacos, Pork belly and Grilled octopusHours of operation: 12 PM to 10 PMOfficial Website | Customer Reviews
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6. Havana Grill: Paradise For Non-Vegetarians
If you are fond of grilled food and steaks; this is the place for you. One of the premier fast food restaurants in South Africa, Havana Grill is located within the Suncoast Casino Hotel complex and offers excellent steaks, grills, meat, and seafood. Boasting a delightful selection of food and wine and breathtaking views from Bluff to Umhlanga Rocks; Havana Grill is an essential destination for any South African restaurant enthusiast.
Location: 42, Suncoast Casino, Battery Beach Rd, North Beach, Durban, 4001, South AfricaMust try: Prawn salad, Seafood platter, and T bone steakHours of operation: 12 PM to 3 PM and 6 PM to 10 PMOfficial Website | Customer Reviews
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7. Butcher Boys Florida Road: Finest Place To Indulge in Beef In Durban
Back in 1991, Laz and Derryck planned to establish a restaurant in South Africa called Butcher Boys Florida Road. Currently, this is one of the premier steak houses in Durban and has gained immense popularity. The meat here is of excellent quality and completely fresh. Furthermore, when served with their own homemade basting sauce and carefully selected vintage wine, it becomes a magical experience. This is the sole establishment among the renowned restaurants in South Africa that has an in-house butcher shop, where you can always personalize your meat cuts.
Location: 170 Florida Rd, Morningside, Durban, 4001, South AfricaMust try: Any beef dish. Additionally, you can also sample their Creamed spinach, Calamari Cajun, and Cheese prawns.Opening hours: 12 noon to 10 pm. On Sundays, the restaurant closes at 9:30 pm.Website | Reviews
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8. La Petite Colombe: Of Wine And Vibrant Atmosphere
When compiling a list of top restaurants in South Africa, it is impossible to overlook La Petite Colombe. This is an intriguing establishment with a fantastic tasting menu that changes according to the seasons, as well as an exceptional selection of wines. Additionally, the opportunity to meet the chef and sample his unique recipes and palate cleansers is an added bonus. Without a doubt, this is one of the finest restaurants in Franschhoek, South Africa, offering vegan and gluten-free options and is renowned as one of the most exceptional vegan restaurants in South Africa.
Location: Le quartier Francais Hotel, Franschhoek, South AfricaMust try: Wagyu beef, Yellowfin tuna, and Pan seared line fishOpening hours: 12 noon to 10 pmWebsite | Reviews
9. Old Townhouse Restaurant: For A Quick Grab
Among the must-visit restaurants in George, South Africa, Old Townhouse is a cozy family-run establishment, boasting a warm and hospitable atmosphere. The couple who own the restaurant fulfill the role of perfect hosts and personally ensure the satisfaction of every guest. The menu is detailed and well-planned, and the delightful ambiance and decent crowd make it a top choice among fast food restaurants in South Africa.
Location: 94 York St, George Central, George, 6530, South AfricaMust try: Springbok Shank, Snail bread, and Biltong spring rollsOpening hours: Open every day, except Sundays, from 12 noon to 11 pm.Website | Reviews
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10. Cuisine Africa Restaurant & Venue: Local Dishes
Finishing your trip in South Africa without savoring local cuisine is an incomplete experience. Therefore, if you desire genuine local food, look no further and visit Cuisine Africa Restaurant & Venue. This is one of the highly-rated eateries in Boksburg South Africa, focusing on delectable African dishes. Aside from tasty meals and crafted beer, this establishment is renowned for social gatherings, bonfires, live music, alfresco dining, and romantic dinners. Offering hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, Cuisine Africa Restaurant & Venue is a restaurant in South Africa that you should try at least once.
Location: 20 Asquith Rd, Ravenswood, Boksburg, 1459, South AfricaMust Sample: Oxtail, Eisbein, and Amuse boucheOperating Hours: 6:30 am to 10 pm. On Sundays, the restaurant operates from 7 am to 4 pmOfficial Website | Customer Reviews
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11. Mosaic At The Orient: French Fine Dining
The Mosaic is located at The Orient Hotel and offers exquisite, seasonal dishes such as Earth and Clouds. It is a combination of sautéed mushrooms with black truffle foam and mashed potatoes. Another renowned specialty offered at this establishment is quail tempura with tamarind syrup. You can also enjoy some of the finest wines available in South Africa.
Location: Francolin Avenue | The Orient Hotel, Pretoria 0001, South AfricaMust Try: Earth and CloudsOperating Hours: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PMOfficial Website | Customer Reviews
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12. The Eatery At Waterkloof: Delightful Classic Dishes
The eatery stirs the appetite with contemporary classic dishes complemented by the finest wines of South Africa. Their chef prioritizes the use of fresh ingredients such as organic eggs and a diverse range of vegetables and rare herbs many of which are their own produce.
Location: Sir Lowry’s Pass Village Street, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7129, South AfricaMust Try: Mauritius SeabassOpening Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PMWebsite | Reviews
13. DW Eleven 13: Experience Innovative Delicacies
DW – Eleven 13 is considered one of the finest restaurants in Johannesburg, South Africa. It offers some of the greatest experimental cuisines to its diners. They are popular among food enthusiasts due to their ability to create distinct flavors in the familiar dishes.
Location: Dunkeld West Shopping Centre, Jan Smuts Ave, Dunkeld West, Johannesburg, 2193, South AfricaOpening Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
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14. The Pot Luck Club: Enjoy Innovative Dishes
Located on the top floor of the Silo of the Old Biscuit Mill, The Pot Luck Club opened in 2013 and has gained the reputation of being the coolest place to be in Cape Town. It achieved success through innovative cuisines and a relaxed ambiance. Numerous diners spend their evenings with their friends & loved ones, indulging in elegant dishes.
Location: The Silo, The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915, South AfricaMust Try: Truffle and Asparagus tart fine, Porcini Hollandaise and Poached Quail EggsOpening Hours: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PMWebsite | Reviews
15. Camphors: Experience Dishes At This Extraordinary Restaurant
The name Camphors has been derived from the ancient Camphor trees which lend a verdant atmosphere to the surroundings. Similarly, the restaurant is spread across a large area overlooking expansive lawns. It is counted among the top 21 exceptional South African restaurants. You can savor some of the best seasonal dish varieties along with classical wines.
Location: Lourensford Rd, Golden Acre, Somerset West, 7130, South AfricaOpening Hours: 12:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PMWebsite | Reviews
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Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants In South Africa
How many restaurants are there in South Africa?
There are approximately 85,000 restaurants in South Africa, with around 57,000 being street stalls and about 9,000 being full-service restaurants.
What do people mostly eat in South Africa?
South Africans consume not only beef but also goat, chicken, mutton, and other meats. On weekends, South African families often have a “Braai,” which consists of “pap and vleis,” which is maize meal and grilled meat.
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