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It’s that time of the year when our local food hubs come alive with the excitement of trying out all the new restaurants. Whether it’s rooftop bars with panoramic views of Table Mountain, world-class fine dining in the Winelands, laid-back eateries in tropical KZN, or the latest openings and whisky-tasting experiences in Gauteng, there’s lots to explore on January’s list of must-have reservations!
Cape Town and the Winelands
VUE Shortmarket
(Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town)
Located on the second floor of 108 Shortmarket Street, VUE is one of the latest openings in the Mother City – and very likely to become your new favourite spot. With 180-degree views of the CBD, Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill, it’s the place to be this summer. The menu includes light and refreshing options, like fresh oysters with a trio of dressings, scallop crudo and anchovy flatbread, as well as more substantial mains, including gnocchi, ribeye and whole roasted fish. The VUE Shortmarket is open from noon to late, making it a great hangout to enjoy a lazy lunch, a glass of bubbly after work, or a leisurely dinner on a balmy evening.
Great experience, will visit again.
MERTIA
(Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch)
MERTIA presents a multi-course fine dining experience set in an elegant dining room flooded with natural lighting from the large windows overlooking Die Braak Park in Stellenbosch. Having opened its doors toward the end of last year, MERTIA is already racking up 5-star reviews for its exceptional food and world-class service. Each course is packed with flavour and beautifully presented on the plate, and the sommelier is happy to guide you in your wine selection or choice of cocktail. On arrival, you’ll have the choice between a 10-course dinner, a 6-course summer menu, a 6-course lunch menu or the 3-course executive lunch menu. If you have a special occasion coming up, I highly recommend choosing MERTIA for your celebration.
Ramenhead
(Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town)
We have some exciting news for all the “ramen heads” out there! Your favourite ramen spot on Parliament Street now accepts bookings. While walk-ins are still very welcome, you can now secure a table, bypass the long queue, and get a steaming bowl of their legendary ramen with house-made noodles whenever the craving strikes. As for seating options, the shaded outdoor courtyard is surrounded by greenery and lit by soft fairy lights, creating the perfect spot for a quick “salaryman” lunch or a romantic dinner on a still summer’s evening. Alternatively, reserve a table inside and enjoy the ambience of blackened wood panels, Japanese posters, and neon lights. And, if you nab a seat at the bar counter, you’ll get a front-row view of all the action in the kitchen.
The most authentic Ramen experience you’ll find in Cape Town, we were pleased that we now can make a booking.
Durban
Spoon Eatery & Pizzeria
(Assagay, Outer West Durban)
Visit the newly-opened Spoon Eatery in Assagay and reserve a table on the wrap-around verandah to enjoy a casual lunch while overlooking the beautiful gardens and lush valley. Personally, I recommend trying the piping hot pizzas from their wood-fired oven, but diners also rave about the sticky Asian-style ribs and homemade burgers with all the toppings. While you’re there, be sure to greet the two well-behaved pups that patrol the property. Spoon is open for both lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, and exclusively for lunch on Sundays.
We had a wonderful dining experience at Spoon, a cosy and charming restaurant with a beautiful garden. The food was delicious and fresh, and the portions were generous and satisfying. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. Spoon is a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends, and I highly recommend it.
Johannesburg and Pretoria
Fireroom Village Walk
(Hazelwood, Pretoria)
Fireroom has branches across the country and, in early December, they opened their newest location at the trendy Village Walk in Hazelwood. The restaurant space is beautiful, with gorgeous lighting, plush chairs and an elegant mix of modern and industrial materials. Known for their slick service, the team of friendly staff will go the extra mile to make your meal special. Fireroom Sushi & Grill serves fresh and tasty food. From oysters, poké bowls, dim sum and sushi, to stir-fries, curries, and a selection of hearty chicken, fish and meat main courses, there’s something for everyone on the menu. Open seven days a week, from 11 am to late, this is a great spot for date night or a special occasion.
An incredible experience from start to finish. The most beautiful restaurant too! Phenomenal food and service.
NPF Tasting Room – Melrose Arch
(Melrose Arch, Johannesburg)
Short for “Nose, Palate, Finish”, NPF Tasting Room is a haven for “spirit geeks” and whisky aficionados. With over 600 rare bottlings and unique expressions of whisky, rum, mezcal, cognac and calvados, you’ll be able to choose from a vast selection of tasting flights. All pours are served in accessible 15ml half-measures, allowing you to sample a wider range of spirits during your visit. They also offer a selection of craft beers and fine wines. Whether you have half an hour or the entire afternoon, make a reservation at NPF Tasting Room in Melrose Arch to discover the world of premium spirits. Their doors are open every day from 11h30
A fantastic tasting experience that I can highly recommend to anyone with even a passing interest in whisky/whiskey/bourbon/rum… Suggest you check out their other tasting options too, because I’ll be back again to try those at some time soon too.
Sebule at African Pride Hotel
(Melrose Arch, Johannesburg)
Translating to “living room” in Swahili, Sebule at the African Pride Hotel in Melrose Arch is an upmarket and exciting addition to the Joburg dining scene. Serving beautifully presented plates of food, personalised drinks and superb service, add this one to your list of must-visit restaurants. The menu features a tempting selection of starters, chargrilled steaks and seafood, all categorised according to the elements – air, earth, fire and water. Save room for dessert because the interesting flavour combinations (think: whiskey and caramel, pistachio and rose, and raspberry and matcha) are simply delicious!
What an extraordinary fine-dining experience. Eating at the Chef’s table made the evening one to remember. The service was great, and the food was excellent. Will definitely recommend Sebule to anyone who is looking to have a special night out.
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