This owner-run landmark in Johannesburg won the Sunday Breakfast Award at the Eat Out DStv Food Network Restaurant Awards in 2011. We find out why salvationcafe remains a reliably excellent start to the day.

The people
Chef-patron Claudia Giannoccaro was travelling the world, cooking up a storm in ski resorts and aboard yachts, before being discovered by a prominent South African mining family, for whom she worked as a private chef. In 2007 she decided to branch out on her own and open salvationcafe, allowing all of Johannesburg – and beyond –to enjoy her culinary flair in this stylish, relaxing space.

The food
The daily chalkboard broadcasts up-to-the-minute dishes. Everything is seasonal and fresh, with an emphasis on free-range, grass-fed and organic ingredients as far as possible, and it’s all cooked with enthusiasm, soul and love.

If you’re feeling frisky and want to start your breakfast with a bang, ask for a Tasharita, a super-refreshing sipper with strawberries, cucumber and mint. The breakfast menu has sections for healthy, sweet, savoury, burritos, scrambled eggs and omelettes – what a treat having a real chef sort out your poached eggs! The award for most exciting and fresh-tasting salad goes to a citrus chicken and almond version. The mussel bowls, when they’re on special, are expertly done. Also recommended are the eggs Benedict and the gourmet beef burger with homemade relish.

The service
The waiters are friendly and personable, with a keen level of efficiency.

The ambience
It’s all such great fun, from the manager and the waiters to the food and the likeable chef. Situated in the heart of 44 Stanley, salvationcafe boasts an eclectic interior and roaring fireplace with a covered outdoor deck. While it can match all seasons and moods, it remains a favourite for a weekend brunch.