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New restaurants to put on your eating out bucket list

 

It seems new restaurants are popping up left, right and centre these days, so we’ve created this handy list of new restaurants around South Africa. We’ll be updating it regularly, so check back whenever you feel like exploring a new spot in your neighbourhood!

November & December 2022

Liberté (Craighall, Johannesburg)

This French-inspired restaurant combines flavour and art to bring guests a unique experience that they’d want to return for.

Upper Union (Cape Town)

This modern eatery situated in the popular Kloof Street, is the perfect place to awaken your senses. Their menu introduces a shared-dining concept that promotes bringing people together through food.

 

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Chunky Chau Restaurant (Rosebank)

Pan Asian fusion dining is what you can look forward to at this establishment. Tuck into hearty bowls of ramen, enjoy some fresh sushi, or tuck into a fresh poké bowl. Bookings are essential.

Who Knows Bar (Cape Town, CBD)

Delicious street food and ice cold beverages are the name of the game at Who Knows Bar. This playful establishment is ideal for lunch out with some friends.

 

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Mama Samba (Johannesburg)

This Latin American spot is situated in Jozi. Serving up fresh dishes and some occasional live entertainment, Mama Samba is indeed the place to be at this Summer and holiday season.

 

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TANG (V&A Waterfront)

Bringing the chic, modern and luxury lifestyle to Cape Town, TANG has now opened its doors at the V&A. Book your table at this trendy spot and experience all of the luxury TANG has to offer.

 

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Ramen Head (Cape Town)

Chefs Peter Tempelhoff and Ashley Moss from FYN are at it again, and this time, they’re serving up some hand made Japanese Ramen in Parliament Street! Stop by at Ramen Head and discover your favourite dish of all time.

 

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Cowfish (Waterfall)

From dim sum and sushi, to burgers and ribs, Cowfish certainly has something for everyone! Whatever your favourite item from the menu may be, be sure to pair it with one of their delicious cocktails.

 

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Urchin (Cape Town)

Sustainable, fresh fish and local ingredients are the order of the day at this new seafood spot. Chef Gerard heads up the kitchen at this modern establishment and his dishes are strongly influenced by his travels across Europe, Asia and Africa.

 

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Sofia Eatery (Stellenbosch)

A whimsical cafe and eatery situated in the tourist attraction town of ‘Stellies’. The menu showcases fresh meals made with the freshest ingredients sourced locally. Stop by for breakfast, brunch or a light lunch.

 

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Zai Restaurant (Durban)

This Argentinian spot is situated in Durbs. Serving a beautiful array of cocktails and Argentinian grills and dishes – it’s a spot fit for a gathering with a group of friends, or an intimate date night.

Perere (Sandton)

Situated at the Sandton Hotel, Perere brings a collaboration of African and Mediterranean flavours to the people of Jozi. Bookings are essential.

 

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Platō Coffee (Stellenbosch)

This chic eatery and café has spread its wings all the way to Stellenbosch. With branches in Hyde Park, Northriding and Hermanus, ‘Stellie’s was bound to be on the radar! Stop by for your favourite caffeine fix.

 

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Beluga (V&A Waterfront)

After months and months of having had their doors closed, Beluga has finally made a come back at the trendy Makers Landing building at the iconic V&A Waterfront. They’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

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Acid Food and Wine Bar (Parktown North)

This rustic eatery has opened its doors in the trendy town of Parktown North. They have an evening of wine tasting and wine intros called “Wine Wednesday’s”. They’re listed on Dine Plan and encourage guests to make a booking before dining at the establishment.

 

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The Nines (Sea Point)

A cocktail lounge and rooftop restaurant, The Nines promises to bring you a great and “worth it” dining experience this summer.

 

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October 2022

Jordan Restaurant (Stellenbosch)

Renovated and reopened, Jordan Restaurant brings innovative and creative cooking to Cape Town.

CHEFS (Cavendish Square)

Chefs is a foodhall and store determined to promote the ideas of art, music and delicious food. Situated in the hustle and bustle of Cavendish, this spot’s focus is to serve chef-made dishes at affordable prices.

Dungeon coffee shop ( Cape Town)

On 10 October, this minimalist-styled establishment opened in the underrated Riebeeck Street, Cape Town. This is a coffee lover’s paradise, and if you’re a student you can get 20% off with a valid student card. 

Chorus (Somerset West)

This new restaurant opened at Waterkloof Wine Estate in Somerset West on the 18th of October 2022. Chorus serves a seasonal four and six-course menu.

Hacienda (Cape Town)

Bringing the spirits of Baja California to the tables of Cape town, located on Bree street Cape town this Mexican restaurant is perfect to offload by enjoying your favourite Mexican dishes and some toquilla.

 

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Scala Pasta/Bar (Cape Town)

The restaurant is located at 81 Church Street, Heritage Square in Cape Town, and it specializes in gluten-free and delicious pastas.

 

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Loco Restaurant ( Cape Town)

An authentic Italian restaurant located in Kloof Street, Cape Town, run by Chef Luca Toni. 

Ukkō (Johannesburg )

Mediterranean Tapas and Sushi spot, with a wine and cocktail mixology bar, Located in Bryanston.

 

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The Village Hazelwood ( Pretoria)

Opened 15th September on 16th street Pretoria. An open-air dining environment with an ambiance like no other. Featuring a fantastic selection of restaurants, eateries, and boutique retailers, there’s something for everyone here.

 

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Dusk (Stellenbosch)

Opened 1st September 2022 in Stellenbosch, Chefs Darren Badenhorst and Callan Austin have created the innovative and thought-provoking restaurant concept Dusk. They envision Dusk as a place that challenges the boundaries of the fine dining industry and ultimately pushes them aside by having unique food and beverage offerings.

 

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Moonshine Menlyn

In Time Square, Pretoria, Moonshine is a  New York-style bar/restaurant that offers good times and great vibes. 

 

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August & September 2022

Roar Bistro & Bar (Sandton)

Sandton’s latest addition to the gastronomic scene. This spot opens to the public on the 23rd of September.

Dhaba and Gimba (Sandton, Rosebank)

Dhaba and Gimba are both proudly South African brands (Dark Kitchens), and both will emanate from the same kitchen. Both food brands are now available via delivery app, Uber Eats, in the Sandton and Rosebank areas. Both Dhaba and Gimba have been certified halaal by the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT).

Tiger’s Milk (V&A Waterfront)

This popular eatery has opened its doors in the picturesque V&A Waterfront. After taking a walk through a few markets and enjoying some of the live entertainment the V&A has to offer, wined down with a few cocktails and the vibrant atmosphere at Tiger’s Milk.

Bougainvillea Grill & Lounge (Green Point)

Offering modern dining, Bougainvillea Grill & Lounge sure knows how to flip a good classic and make it a great experience. Think grilled or deep-fried calamari with lemon-butter sauce, or grilled prawns, then head down to Bouganvillea and enjoy.

Sonny and Irene (Sea Point)

Cafe-style classics with a contemporary twist are what you’ll find at Sonny and Irene, a ‘non-traditional’ neighbourhood bakery and cafe in Sea Point, Cape Town. From healthy to decadent, savoury to sweet, and coffee to cocktails, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

Cookie Co.

The store features a wide variety of sweets and treats, including milk tarts and ice cream. Their American-styled cookies are made with real ingredients such as dark chocolate and orange pieces. The Cookie co prides itself in delivering a cookie experience that is out of this world, as well as creamy coffee.

Shift Espresso Bar (Deer Park)

The Shift Espresso Bar is a symbol of defiance against convention. Where coffee is an obsession and is used to nurture and motivate human connection. It is everything from coffee to food to service. Shift prides itself on serving food that is non-GMO, organic, and free range. Sourcing all of their products from local suppliers and farmers.

Modern Tailors (Rosebank, Johannesburg)

Located in Rosebank, Johannesburg, Modern Tailors serves Indian cuisine which is rich, colourful, and diverse in flavours. The menu offers dishes for all occasions.

Butter (Cape Town, City Centre)

Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to work or recharge, Butter Bistro Bar offers an all-day breakfast. Whether you stay for one cup of coffee or an entire day of work, the menu is sure to satisfy your craving.

Deux Lions (Franschhoek)

The premier restaurant and winery is located on the scenic Excelsior Road in Franschhoek, offering unique experiences with a menu that reflects the seasonality and availability of fresh ingredients and products to ensure the highest quality.

Conchilla (Ballito)

Conchilla prides itself in taking care of its guests by entertaining and spoiling them. They believe that dance is the language of the soul, and their Salsa Sundays are hosted on every last Sunday of the month.

The Eatery at Antrim House (Three Anchor Bay)

Antrim House’s onsite restaurant serves a variety of meals and cocktails. Their menu has many options for breakfast and lunch.

Solo (Sandton)

Located in the heart of Sandton, Solo is set in a contemporary and upmarket setting offering a stylish and soulful experience. The menu features steak and mouth-watering burgers and tapas. If you’re craving something sweet, their dessert options endless.

The Persian Peacock (Vredehoek)

The Persian Peacock offers Persian and modern Iranian cuisine. Think flavourful kebabs served with a veg combo and spiced rice. The Persian tea made with aromatic and magical spices is also a drawcard.

The Wine Glass (Stellenbosch)

Located in the beautiful Stellenbosch, The wine glass offers deliciously prepared meals by their chef that is inspired by local cuisine and guaranteed to take you on a gastronomic journey. Their menu offers a variety to choose from, with their average main meal amounting to R150, They also offer the finest selection of wines from award-winning wines to bubbly and beers from Stellenbosch. Open every Tuesday to Saturday 8am to 10pm; Sunday 11am to 10pm; Monday 4pm to 10pm.

The Wine Glass (Hermanus)

The Wine Glass is a wine bar located in Hermanus that offers outstanding food and wine tastings.

July 2022

Only Fools Bar (Sea Point)

Burgers, sides and wine are reason enough to stop by this new Sea Point eatery. Try their classic burger, made with a beef patty on a fresh potato bun with truffle mayo, aged cheddar and pickled onions, or opt for their chicken burger with feta, tomato relish, pickles and lettuce. Not too keen on meat? They’ve got vegan burger alternatives available too. Only Fools Bar is open 7 days a week.

 

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WE Cafe (Tamboerskloof)

This Tamboerskloof eatery has your back for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Run by three families from different countries, this cafe is a hub for people to come together from far and wide, enjoy a fresh bite to eat and discover a favourite on the menu. WE Café is open from 9am to 8pm from Tuesday to Saturday and from 9am to 4pm on Sundays.

 

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The Poké Co. (Stellenbosch)

Passionate about good food and taking care of the environment, Andrew Flanagan introduced us to The Poké Co. With branches in Loop Street, Kloof Street, Claremont and Sea Point, a fifth branch opens its doors in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch. Stop by for your pick of their signature poke bowls or build your own! They’re open from 8am to 8.30pm from Monday to Friday and from 9am to 8.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

 

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Yori Oki Sushi and Grill (The Lifestyle Centre, Ballito)

Yori Oki is the latest edition to Eat Street at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre. Yori Oki offers traditional and signature sushi, along with an extensive main menu focused on the food of Japan, including Dim Sum, Ramen, Mamezara (small dishes) and Robatayaki (flame-grilled skewers on special Bincho-tan coals). Japanese fusion cuisine at its finest. A small space with an intimate ambience, seating only 60 people. You can expect an extensive range of Japanese liquor and whiskies. Do leave some room for their selection of desserts especially the ‘Yo Muso’ (layers of Oreo crumble, Nutella mousse and ice cream). Open daily from 11am.

 

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The Black Rabbit (Hillcrest)

The Black Rabbit is the brainchild of restaurateur, Chris Black. Expect fluffy soufflés and oozy croque monsieurs. Snack on Parmesan churros, whipped ricotta or marinated olives. Mains are where the wood ovens come alive with options such as wood-roasted hake with lemon butter or poached kingklip. Their wood-fired pizzas take you from Mozambique to the Mediterranean. Open daily from 11.30am to 9.30pm.

 

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Cafe at the Club (Durban Country Club)

Run by the Grimaldi’s team, this eccentric café offers both traditional and creative breakfasts, as well as an assortment of lunch options. They include Hawaiian poke bowls, pasta, pizzas and much more. Surrounded by the golf course and the ocean in the distance, the views are sure to be magnificent. In addition to a jam-packed menu, the café’s incredibly cool interiors are undoubtedly one of the top reasons to visit. Open Monday to Sunday from 6am to 4pm.

Conchilla Tapas and Lounge Bar (Ballito)

Conchilla is an upmarket, trendy and stylish new tapas and lounge bar situated upstairs from the popular Concha Café on the North Coast. Their menu includes a variety of tapas-style meals, sushi and desserts. Although the menu is short and sweet, the Zen-inspired flavours are perfectly aligned with their exotic drinks and cocktail menu. They have DJs after 8pm as well as a dance floor. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 1pm to 1am (no under 24s after 5pm).

 

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June 24, 2022

De Eetkamer (Stellenbosch)

Chef Marco Cardoso – previously from Thali and Chefs Warehouse – has set up his own place in a former stable in Stellenbosch centre. The small-plate menu setup allows diners to get a good sample of a range of global flavours, from risottos to tataki. De Eetkamer is open Tuesdays to Saturdays for lunch (12–3pm) and dinner (5:30–9pm). Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Café Chiffon (De Waterkant)

For delectable desserts, head to this Asian-inspired dessert café in De Waterkant, Cape Town. The café pays homage to owner Christine Hu’s childhood in China. Must-try desserts include the Japanese cheesecake and colourful Korean macarons – but be warned: come early because Café Chiffon’s cakes and desserts fly out the door! Café Chiffon is open from 7:30am to 5:30pm on Mondays to Fridays, and from 8am to 4pm on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays.

WATCH: Eat Out visits Café Chiffon in De Waterkant

Cafe Chiffon

Perlemoen (Hermanus)

As the name suggests, Permeloen specialises in serving the South African delicacy. It’s set on the water’s edge in the Old Harbour, which was the first abalone hatchery in Hermanus. Don’t worry if permeloen isn’t to your taste, as they serve a range of dishes featuring other freshly caught fish. Although if you are on the fence when it comes to permeloen, this is the place to try it! Perlemoen is open 9:30am to 4pm, Tuesdays to Sundays. Closed on Mondays.

 

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Farro (Bot River)

After a successful pop-up in Bree Street in Cape Town last year, Farro has found a permanent home at Gabriëlskloof in Bot River. Now you can enjoy their well-known dishes, such as the ever-popular duck liver parfait, while sipping on a glass of Gabriëlskloof’s finest wine. Farro is open for breakfast and lunch from 9am to 5pm every day.

READ MORE: Farro finds a new home at Gabriëlskloof

Farro Gabrielskloof team

KōL Izakhaya (Hyde Park)

An “izakhaya” is a Japanese food bar and “KōL” refers to coal, which gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect at this new spot in Hyde Park. The star of the show is robata grill, a traditional Japanese method of cooking over coals, so you can expect to find an array of grilled dishes from meat to fish and even vegetables. They also serve sushi. KōL Izakhaya is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 11am to 10pm. Closed on Mondays.

READ MORE: How KōL Izakhaya embraces natural elements like charcoal and stone

kol izakaya

Deux Lions (Franschhoek)

Chef Nanda Cardoso, previously the head chef at Chefs Warehouse in Bree Street, has headed out to the beautiful Winelands. At this elegant spot, situated at the La Bourgogne Wine Estate, the interiors are every bit as enticing as the food. Select a variety of small plates, from ceviche to spätzle, or go for the three-course menu option. Deux Lions is open from 11am to 5pm on Sundays and Tuesdays to Thursdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, they’re open until 7:30pm. Closed on Mondays.

 

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Ouzeri (City Bowl, Cape Town)

Expect modern takes on traditional Greek Cypriot dishes at this happening new spot in Cape Town’s CBD. Chef Nic Charalambous was influenced by the culture in which he grew up and many of the seasonal dishes on offer are inspired by his grandmother’s home cooking, so you’ll be transported straight to the sunny Mediterranean. Ouzeri is open for lunch (12–3pm) on Wednesdays to Saturdays, and dinner (6:9:30pm) on Tuesdays to Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

READ MORE: Greek Cypriot restaurant, Ouzeri, to open in Cape Town’s City Centre

 

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Café Fleur (Somerset West)

Vergelegen Wine Estate is becoming popular for their seasonal pop-up restaurants, from their hot dog pop-up in a cow field to the more romantic River Café. Café Fleur, which is in the newly revamped building that was previously the home of Camphors, is the latest in their pop-up series. Guests can look forward to French-style dining including classics such as French onion soup, duck a l’orange and crème caramel. Café Fleur is open for lunch on Wednesdays to Sundays (12–5pm) and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays (6–11pm) until further notice.

Cafe Fleur

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