Celebrating National Book Week by heading out to the South African Book Fair taking place between 7 and 9 September? Feed your stomach after feeding your brain at these spots nearby the Newtown Precinct.
Father Coffee (Braamfontein)
This spot needs no introduction to keen coffee addicts. Grab a brew and be tempted to linger in the airy spot.
The Immigrant Bar (Braamfontein)
Pop in for a breakfast of mushrooms on toast or shakshuka paired with a flat white, cortado or whatever tickles your fancy.
Post, Breakfast, Lunch (Braamfontein)
Have all your favourites at Post, like French toast with bacon and honey, flapjacks with bacon, and scrambled egg with spicy tomato salsa. Get your caffeine fix in your favourite form or sip on a cup of rooibos tea.
Dosa Hut (Fordsburg)
You’ll have to stop by here for dinner too to make the best of all 17 of the spectacular dosa options. Think perfectly rolled, perfectly light and crisp rice pancakes canoodling a firm pile of filling with a trio of interesting sambar. You’ll be hooked.
Gwigwi Chesa Nyama (Newtown)
Don’t miss the vibe at this chesa nyama spot for the books. Go with a bunch of friends, order all your fresh-from-the-fire faves plus drinks galore and make a day out of it.
The Potato Shed (Newtown Junction)
Grab a late lunch at The Potato Shed to satisfy all your cravings – from a poker of lamb from the coals and pulled pork and crackling, to pizzas and every type of potato. Also choose from a varied drinks menu. You may just end up staying for dinner too.
Turkish Kebab House & Butchery (Mayfair)
Don’t be fooled by this restaurant’s unassuming exterior. Turkish Kebab House turns out excellent traditional Turkish cuisine, with options like kofte, iskender, lavash and lahmacun. Enjoy kadaifi or baklava with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
The Orbit (Braamfontein) ?
Everyone’s sure to find something at this bistro with live jazz. Vegetarians can opt for the Thai veg curry while carnivores can enjoy the Asian pork belly or the 1kg of prime rib. You could also warm up with the oxtail casserole or the Wagyu beef brisket. Or, if you’re going low key, order a platter or grab a burger. The wine list is varied, giving you plenty of options to sip from as you enjoy the live music.
? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app.
Urbanologi (Ferreirasdorp) ?
Expect the best of fusion cuisine from chef Jack Koetzee, who plays with the techniques of kushiyaki, yakitori and teriyaki. There are options for vegetarian and vegan diners, as well as dishes that will pair perfectly with beers from the neighbouring Mad Giant.
? Available for online bookings on the Eat Out app.
Gentleman’s Arthouse (Newtown)
If you want an exclusive vibe, head to the Gentleman’s Arthouse, which is only open to the public by reservation on Thursday nights. Dive into a set menu meant to surprise and of course pair it with one of the house cocktails or something from the carefully selected wine list. You also might be entertained by anything from jazz singers to burlesque dancers and acrobats.
The Immigrant Bar (Braamfontein)
Don’t call this spot a restaurant with a bar – it’s a bar with a restaurant. Fresh herbs and fruit accompany the cocktails, and flavoured G&Ts come in jam jars. Wines range from dirt-cheap to splurge-worthy, and are all available by the glass.
Mad Giant Brewery (Ferreirasdorp)
It’s all about the beer at Mad Giant. Whether you’re pairing it with a meal at Urbanologi or just relaxing with a brew, this is the spot for you. Pick your poison from pale ales and lagers to pilsners and amber ales.
Kitchener’s Carvery Bar (Braamfontein)
Make sure you’re up for the party here and that you’ve organised a lift home. If you’re keen for something to eat too, choose one of the variety of burgers or from the bar snacks.
Have you been to any of these spots recently? Review them on our free app now and we’ll pledge a meal for a hungry child through Rise Against Hunger. Download and register on the app now.