Located at the end of bustling food hub Bree Street, in Sababa Kitchen and Deli’s former spot, Olami is a quaint little salad-bar restaurant. Upon entry, you’re greeted with the sights and smells of vibrant fresh dishes. Everything is beautifully laid out on a centre table in the restaurant, with just enough space to make your way around to see all that is on offer.

A post shared by Olami (@olami_kitchen) on Apr 25, 2018 at 2:36am PDT

Fast facts

Cost: R85 average main meal
Parking: Street parking available
Best for: A take-away lunch
Star ratings: Food and drinks: 4; Ambience: 3; Service: 4

Food

Customers are encouraged to create their own combination to make a personalised lunchbox takeaway or plate. There are a few choices of proteins available – meatballs, curries, stews and a plethora of brightly coloured salads sprinkled with seeds and scattered with herbs. The idea is that you choose your protein and a selection of three salads or vegetable dishes to make up your lunchbox. The Durban-style chicken curry is lightly spiced and filled with a tender chicken breast. The whole roasted cauliflower with its burnished exterior and soft creamy interior is sublime. The sweet roasted beetroot scattered with seeds and tossed with herbs is a consistent feature on the salad offering.

A post shared by Olami (@olami_kitchen) on May 14, 2018 at 1:40am PDT

For something sweet, there’s a selection of sweets and confections on offer, all displayed beautifully in jars and on cake stands to entice you. The almond Florentine is a must-try, baked until beautifully golden and crispy. The sesame-rolled date balls are one of the signature confections on offer too.

A post shared by Olami (@olami_kitchen) on Oct 23, 2017 at 2:03am PDT

Drinks

Choose from a selection of fresh juices made to order. The apple and lemon combo is deliciously tangy and refreshing. There is also a choice of sparkling or still water and limited soft drink options.

Ambience

The restaurant is small and can get cramped during the lunch-hour rush. If you’d like to sit inside, there are a few bar stools inside lined up against the wall. Otherwise there’s limited seating available outside.

A post shared by Olami (@olami_kitchen) on Oct 23, 2017 at 2:40am PDT

Service

The staff is friendly and efficient, serving each customer in turn as they dish up your food choices to make up your desired lunch selection. Since most patrons come to this spot for takeaways, the staff understands the importance of speedy service and delivers accordingly.

And…

The delicious dishes on offer are all compiled in a cookbook also named Olami and written by owner Nirit Saban. It’s available for purchase at the restaurant.

Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our full editorial policy here.

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