2 Best Restaurants in Johannesburg, South Africa

Basalt

$$$$ | Melrose Arch Fodor's choice

This is fine dining at its finest, according to the 2021 Luxe Restaurant Awards which conferred the title of Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year on Basalt. This intimate, dinner-only establishment prides itself on attention to detail with immaculate plating that plays on a fusion of color, texture, and storytelling. It hosts chefs-in-residence who design tasting menus (from three to seven courses; price quoted for seven courses), with options for meat lovers, pescatarians, and vegetarians, that can be complemented with a wine pairing selected by an experienced sommelier. It’s a memorable culinary experience that is accentuated by a sophisticated, yet comfortable, atmosphere in The Peech Hotel’s heritage house, with its parquet flooring, Basalt-gray walls and backlit bar.

61 North St., Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
011-537–9797
Known For
  • a romantic night out where the prix-fixe menu is served at a leisurely pace
  • quality service and attention to detail
  • regularly changing menu in line with seasons and fresh produce
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No lunch, Reservations essential, Children aged 16 or over are welcome

Old East Precinct

$$

The Old East Precinct is a suburban development in Hazelwood with a village feel to it, as a wide selection of coffee shops, restaurants, bars and bespoke stores line the leafy streets of Hazelwood Road and 16th Street. If you’re hungry, you’ll have plenty to choose from here, from Lexi’s Healthy Eatery (our number one choice which serves a selection of vegan, but not only, dishes) to Alfie’s Pizzeria and Deli, and you can never go wrong with Cowfish, which as the name suggests serves a combination of fish, seafood and meat-lovers dishes, alongside cocktails. The gelato at Aroma Coffee Roastery is a must (you’ll recognize it from the giant mural of a tucan at its entrance) and pop by Spout Coffee Company housed in repurposed shipping containers for a cuppa and baked goods. Once you’re satiated, you can browse the handmade leather goods at Freedom of Movement and go off in search of some of the murals and artworks that give this precinct even more character. Certain establishments may be closed on Mondays.