The restaurant spot at a lake in the lush suburb of Parkview that has stood empty for far too long now has new life, thanks to a name well-loved in Johannesburg. A foodie’s visit to Soweto is incomplete without tasting the seven colours from Sakhumzi Restaurant, the first establishment on the famous Vilakazi Street. Now, this proudly South African taste has opened another home, at Zoo Lake Park.

 

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General manager Ronald Ndlovu explains that their first location is often frequented by diners from other parts of Johannesburg, and the new location will allow the restaurant to bring their traditional and delicious flavours and vibe closer to home. “We are in the process of venturing out into different spaces to bring that Soweto experience closer to people,” he says.

The restaurant has taken over what used to be a Moyo restaurant and updated it with some personal touches. A highlight is the large wooden deck, where you can sit under the trees very close to the lake. It’s a perfect spot to go after a walk or even a go at the paddle boats, when available. The whole family is welcome!

 

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At the hands of chef Nelly Sithole, the new spot’s menu has Sakhumzi’s signature mix of family favourites like burgers and traditional South African dishes such as the homestyle mogodu tripe or cow heels. There are also a number of braai platters to choose from, which Ndlovu says will be popular because Zoo Lake is a place known for picnics and braai meat.

“People should look forward to our traditional buffet, because that’s what we’re known for and what we’re great at,” Ndlovu says. The buffet offering that has become somewhat legendary at Sakhumzi will now be available on weekends for lunch and dinner at Zoo Lake, at R270pp for adults.

 

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Sakhumzi Maqubela, owner of Sakhumzi Restaurant, is excited about what this new location will bring. She says they aim “to bring the authentic Soweto experience to the Zoo Lake community and surrounding areas, where they can come with friends and family to enjoy their time or host events.”

While the new restaurant has big shoes to fill in living up to the original location, it will hopefully bring new life and buzz to Zoo Lake and surrounds.