Now that winter is well and truly here, things have quieted down on the new restaurant scene in South Africa. But, that doesn’t mean the food scene has gone into hibernation.
Things may have slowed down a bit, but here are 6 of the must-have restaurant reservations for July.
Cape Town and surrounds
Vadivelu
The trio behind Vadivelu, Kloof Street’s newest eatery, say their aim is to be “authentically South Africanly Indian”. I spoke about this newbie on Cape Talk in May, but since eating there (twice!), I can highly recommend a visit. For starters, try out the pani puri for an addictive burst of flavour. Then order a selection of paratha, chutneys and pickles to accompany your choice of curries. While the list of options has been kept limited, Chef Jai has created a winning menu. I personally love the Durban lamb curry on the bone, the paneer tikka masala and their coconutty prawn curry with lots of crispy curry leaves. Vadivelu is open from Monday through Saturday for both lunch and dinner.
“Do yourself a favour and book a table today! What a fabulous place.” – Dineplan reviewer
Upper Union Restaurant
While relatively new to the Cape dining scene, Upper Union has already earned a loyal and devoted following amongst Capetonians. It’s a versatile spot – great for long, lazy weekend lunches, generous family-style dinners or after-work drinks and a quick bite. In summer, the shaded courtyard and conservatory offer a welcome oasis from the business of Kloof Street but, in winter, head on inside and find a cosy spot by the roaring fire. Until the end of August, the Upper Union team are offering a very tempting winter neighbourhood lunch special at R225 per person. The menu starts with a delicious bread and butter course, followed by two warm and hearty plates of Chef Amori Burger’s famous cooking.
The Kraal Restaurant
Much loved for their hearty, family-style meals made using farm-fresh produce, The Kraal at Joostenberg hosts special events every now and then, including workshops, wine tastings, guided farm walks and dining experiences. This month, they are hosting two exciting events. On Saturday, the 22nd of July, join them for their Christmas in July Fynbos and Farm Flower Workshop. For R980 per person, you’ll create Christmas-themed floral decor, while enjoying coffee and pastries, followed by a festive farm lunch with Joostenberg’s amazing wines. On Thursday, the 27th of July, they’ll be hosting a steak and Cabernet winter supper. At R500 per person, you’ll be treated to a tasty steak supper and get to taste several vintages of the Joostenberg Cabernet Sauvignon.
Johannesburg and Pretoria
JoyJozi
School holidays have arrived and, as a parent, grandparent or guardian, you’re probably on the lookout for ways to keep your little ones occupied and entertained. JoyJozi in Dunkeld is the perfect spot. While they offer great dining options for both kids and adults, JoyJozi is so much more than just a restaurant. For outdoor fun, this one-of-a-kind family playground has a garden with a treehouse, mazes, slides, a bicycle track and a splash park. Inside, there is a play centre with a games room, reading room and lots more.
If you’re looking for more holiday inspiration, check out our list of over 40 child-friendly restaurants across the country that combine great food with fun activities.
Saigon Suzy Hazelwood
Taking its inspiration from the vibrant and rowdy back streets of Ho Chi Min (Saigon) in Vietnam, Saigon Suzy is opening a new branch in Pretoria on the 3rd of July. If the success of the Parkwood and Fourways locations in Joburg is anything to go by, the new Hazelwood opening is going to be a huge hit! Suzy serves up the tastiest Southeast Asian-inspired street food, including bao buns, dumplings, noodles and sushi, alongside punchy cocktails in their laid-back, food market-style setting.
Smoke
After travelling internationally for years, the founders of Smoke have opened a restaurant that celebrates the best of South African food and drinks, including our deep love for cooking over an open fire. Two giant cabinet smokers dominate the open smoke yard, filling their air with the mouthwatering smell of 18-hour smoked ribs. Gather your friends and sit around the open firepits while the chefs prepare some incredible food using the Josper grill and bake fresh potbrood in the open fires, as their resident DJ sets the tone.
Open from Wednesday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you need to add this spot to your reservation list! One Dineplan reviewer even commented how the good food and service make the drive from Jozi worthwhile!
0 Comments