A dine-in deli offers guests a unique and delectable dining experience – where eateries combine the convenience of a deli with the ambience of a restaurant, allowing them to savour an array of foods and flavours in a cosy communal setting.

Let’s travel vicariously and explore the broad range of flavours available in some of our country’s finest dine-in delis.

Cape Town and the Winelands

The Deli at Hazendal (Stellenbosch)

Tradition and contemporary meet in this cosy and nurturing space. Look out for the Babushka pastries and baked goods. The all-day breakfasts are sublime. Try their Eggs Benedict on homemade bread or the traditional breakfast plate. Their cheese and charcuterie boards are great for pairing with wines. Enjoy the architecture, the décor, the gardens, the vintage car collection, and shop for food and crafts in their deli and shop. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8am to 5pm.

 

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Goldies Deli (Sea Point)

This place oozes comfort like the Savta (Jewish grandma) that you never knew you needed. There is soup on the menu every day, as well as falafels, pitas, and hummus just like in Tel Aviv. Choose toppings to create your own breakfast bagel and don’t leave without ordering the shakshuka. Whether you’re shopping for daily needs, Shabbos or even for the holidays, Goldies offers a good product range and an exciting menu. They can even help you cater for those special occasions.

 

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Johannesburg

Obento Ramen Bar (Japanese street food in Sandton)

This tiny eatery is drawing in the crowds with their speciality Japanese fare. Their Japanese Street Food days have seen queues forming to enjoy the special treats available. In-store, you can enjoy treats like their macha tiramisu or the crispy, crunchy and umami goodness of an Osaka-style Okonomiyaki pancake. Take home an Obento Dinnerbox for a load-shedding-proof meal. This tiny shop is making its mark on Jozi as a noteworthy spot.

 

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La Marina Seafood (Modderfontein)

As the name suggests, La Marina started off as one of the foremost suppliers of traceable and sustainable seafood in Joburg. Their offerings also include poultry and all manner of free-range fowl, other pantry products, imported chocolate and over 200 cheeses. Many chefs stock their restaurants from La Marina, but if you are in the know, you can visit their in-house restaurant for a wholesome breakfast (R69) or order a platter of the freshest sushi from the sushi bar (16 pcs R190), grilled seafood platter for two (R320), or the delightful six oysters and a glass of bubbly at R129.

 

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Pretoria

Mèze Greek Deli and Restaurant

Their shelves are well stocked with a selection of Greek goods. The friendly staff know their products well. In the restaurant, delectable lamb, seafood, filling gyros and many lovely meals are served. What a joy to have such a gem in our capital city.

Vee and Forti Wine Bar and Liquor Emporium (Lynnwood Glen)

This Italian-style deli grew out of the passion of two consummate food lovers, Fortunato Mazzone and his wife Veralda. They have built up an impressive wine and spirit selection and the shelves are regularly stocked with gourmet ingredients. Vee now has a flock of goats, so follow their new cheese-making journey in-store and online.

 

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Gqeberha

Off the Menu Food Emporium and Deli (Walmer, Main Road)

This is an excellent venue for breakfast. Enjoy the brioche French toast (R105) or the Belgian waffles (R105) with freshly squeezed juice or coffees from around the world. Lots of rustic charm and fresh ingredients make this a great place to shop at too. Look out for their cocktail and tapas combos or some of the other regular specials on offer.

 

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Durban

Col’tempo Deli

Share a salami platter for two or indulge in a rich and creamy Gorgonzola gnocchi. The deli also specialises in a wonderful range of olives, preserves and pickles. Shop for mushrooms, artichokes and Italian cured meats.

 

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