I first moved into Northriding – located north of the boerewors curtain in Joburg – 10 years ago from Tamboerskloof, Cape Town. What was previously farmland plots has been transformed into a bustling residential and commercial hub. The Ticket-Pro Dome is an iconic landmark providing constant entertainment and adding to the hustle and bustle of this neighbourhood. I have grown to love this rapidly developing hood, which has easy access to all major highways, good schools and Lanseria airport with flights to major South African cities.

A photo posted by Juno & Co (@junoandco) on Nov 13, 2015 at 1:22am PST

When I first moved here, the hood was filled with the usual franchised eating spots in shopping centres. Over the years I have seen the food scene change from drab to fab, with a few hidden gems that have become my go-to places for any occasion.

For lazy Sundays

For Sunday breakfast or brunch I always head on to Wild Goose Restaurant at Blandford Manor. Blandford Manor provides the space and tranquillity reminiscent of an English garden country estate, with the grove of trees and dam enhancing this dreamy setting. The restaurant serves the perfect Sunday breakfast / brunch buffet for R175 person. The buffet is a full spread of deliciousness, which will have you lingering in the garden way after you’ve had your fill. The à la carte restaurant, which is open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner, also caters for weddings and any other special event at the manor.

The fare at Wild Goose Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

For special occasions

For any special occasion or date I always end up at Café del Sol in Olivedale. This is my all-time favourite Italian restaurant and deli. The restaurant was first opened in 2007 and has won many accolades, including Eat Out’s Best Italian Restaurant in 2012. The brand stands for great food and atmosphere that speaks to the heart and soul of every patron. The décor is simple red and white with inspirational quotes adorning the walls. The food is wholesome, honest Italian fare, freshly prepared under the watchful eye of the owner Mama Luciana. My favourite dish at Café del Sol is Al Salmone Vodka, which is vodka-flambéed salmon in a creamy Napoletana sauce with leeks and asparagus, served with fresh tagliatelle. Their wine list is extensive, carrying both local and international wines and champagnes. Café del Sol always delivers a world-class food experience.

The interior at Cafe del Sol. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

For a quick bite

For a quick takeaway curry experience I head on to Curryliscious at Bel Air mall. This hole in the wall serves authentic North Indian fare and the best bunny chow this side of Durban. The food is always fresh and Mrs Naidoo, the head chef and owner, has maintained a good balance between quality food and value for money. The restaurant also offers a delivery service for those nights you don’t feel like leaving your home for a good Indian meal. The restaurant is open everyday for lunch and dinner.

For drinks with friends

For drinks with my girls, Joshua Tree Restaurant and Bar at Northlands Shopping Centre is the perfect spot for dinner and sundowners. The bistro-style menu features gourmet burgers, platters to share and amazing steaks. The décor is modern-meets-industrial, with black-and-white wall prints featuring rock ’n roll greats adorning the walls, creating a warm yet relaxed ambience. There’s always live entertainment from Thursday night to Saturday night. The restaurant offers refreshing signature cocktails, local and international wines and craft beers. Food and drinks are well priced at R59 for a tasting platter and bottomless ribs for R119. Phuza Thursday is always a treat at Joshua Tree.

For Thai food

Kai Thai is my go-to place for authentic Thai food at good prices. The restaurant situated at the All Saints Shopping Centre in Olivedale also has a spa with good value treatments. The décor is beautiful: Thai-inspired with life-size Buddha statues in gold and black creating an opulent experience. The food is always cooked fresh, so you usually have a bit of a wait. This is a small price to pay for their Angry Duck, which is my favourite dish on the menu: garlic, ginger and chilli pack a punch in this beautiful dish. Their crispy duck and green curries are also winners. The restaurant stays open late on the weekends (just past midnight), and is closed on Mondays. You can also opt for takeaways or order through Mr Delivery. The service is always on point, with Thai massage therapists on hand to give you a neck rub during dinner.

For business

For quick business meetings I always go to Juno & Co at Northlands Shopping Centre on Witkoppen Road. This owner-run bakery and deli serves the best harvest table in the north. All the cakes, bread and pies are baked daily, with any leftovers sold at half price at the end of the day. The free WiFi and the fresh coffee ensure that I always linger on, way after my meetings. Smoothies, freshly squeezed juices and virgin cocktails are also on hand to quench your thirst.

Bacon and egg on toast at Juno & Co. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

For family time

Casa Polana in Northriding Square is another favourite for my family and me. This traditional Portuguese restaurant serves authentic fare packed with flavour. My favourites are the trinchado, cooked with wine and garlic, and the chorizo-and-prawn espetada. The food is well-priced and the atmosphere relaxed, with a jungle gym outside guaranteed to keep the little ones entertained. Casa Polana offers a full bar, featuring Portuguese and local wines. The festive Portuguese music playing in the background and the delicious smell of food is guaranteed to transport your senses to some remote village in Portugal. The service is great and the owner is always on hand to make sure everything is running smoothly.

A function at Casa Polana. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.