It all started as my girlfriend and I sat down and our friendly waiter Melusi brought us the complimentary snacking bread, accompanied by some of the inhouse peri-peri sauce. Hungry as we were, we spread some on the fresh bread with butter and immediately loved the unique taste. Just the right amount of bite, with a rich and zesty flavour to boot. But this was only the beginning, and we had no idea that we were about to have what we both deem to be the best meal we've ever had. This is no idle praise, as I love food of all kinds, and my girlfriend is admittedly fussy about restaurant food. For starters, she opted for the prawn pastries (risolles) and I chose the traditional chouriço. We decided to each have a taste of each other's orders. The risolles were mouthwatering, and replete with flavour and texture. And the chouriço was brought to the table still flaming with ignited brandy. Needless to say, it was delicious too. Simple, but full of flavour. For our main courses, I decided to go with a tried and test favourite of mine, Chicken Trinchado. And my girlfriend wanted to try something new, so she chose one of the house specialties: Porco Com Ameijoa, a traditional dish comprising potatoes, pork and clams in a garlic and wine sauce. These main courses were hands down the most hearty, rich and delicious dishes we've ever had. My girlfriend does not usually eat pork, but even she loved the balance of flavours in her dish. The meat was tender and perfectly cook in both mains. And the Trinchado sauce was mind blowing. Throughout the meal, we savoured each bite, and admired the warm and cozy decor of the quaint venue, noting that the colours and ambience felt hearty and welcoming, with the dishes matching that atmosphere and elevating it to altogether new levels. After the meal, we waited a bit, still awestruck by the food we had, and how it made for such an amazing date night. Then, we capped our evening with dessert. She chose one of her favourites, chocolate mousse, and I decided to go for the almond tart. The desserts were delicious too, and along with a little caffeine on the side, a perfect end to a lovely evening. We left the restaurant happy and extremely impressed. And we definitely plan on going there again.

Fantastic restaurant - great food and welcoming family-style service. The secret is out though, so book well in advance.

Unfortunately we were not afforded the opportunity to even enter the restaurant this afternoon/evening. Having phoned beforehand to find out whether a booking was required or not and being told it wasn't necessary, upon arrival (at 17:00) we were ceremoniously turned away and told we needed a booking. When we said that we had been told we didn't need the booking, they said they could only accommodate us until 18:30, we left and had a wonderful evening at Fratelli next door. We're sure the food is absolutely amazing, but the attitude we received this afternoon/evening we'd rather support someone else.

Simply the best food in Johannesburg!

Fantastic. Excellent food.