One thing Johannesburg denizens know how to do is eat well. We are certainly spoilt for choice; it seems a hot new eatery is opening its doors every five minutes. And lucky us: here are the four brand-new restaurants that you simply must visit ASAP.
Mamasamba
The hottest new addition to the Rosebank dining scene is Mamasamba, a Latin American inspired restaurant and bar that is as Instagrammable as it is appetising. Mamasamba’s double-story venue is a delicious carnival-esque jungle dream, complete with an acid-green staircase and bold murals.
The menu is as creative as the interior and offers a variety of Central American cuisine, from ceviche and dishes prepared by open fire wood & charcoal grill, to the not-so-traditional oysters and sushi options.
The real showstopper is the bar upstairs, where Mamasamba serves up an eclectic mix of cocktails. The jungle daiquiri – roasted pineapple, pineapple juice, sugar syrup, mint, crushed ice + a shot of rum – is a must-try.
Location: The Zone @ Rosebank
Besos
Besos is a brand-new all-day eatery located in the heart of Craighall. With a passion for seasonal, classic food and a warm interior, Besos begs you to stop and stay awhile.
Their menu boasts both contemporary and classic dishes, and shifts from conventional cuisine such as eggs benedict, burgers and grills to the more adventurous lobster rolls, wasabi prawn linguine and Greek-inspired fare.
Besos is an ideal meeting spot for coffee, breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner – there really is something for everyone. Make sure to book a table before you visit – the space packs out quickly!
Location: 345 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall Park
Artistry JHB
Foodie aficionado, musician and restaurateur J-Something is getting back in the kitchen with his latest passion project, Artistry. Touted as a full cultural immersion in one building, the space is intended to be a melting pot of art, performance, food and live music across three floors.
The light and airy and feel of the restaurant invites its guests to pull up a chair to meet and eat with friends and loved ones for all manner of occasions. Centred around good old hearty fare, Artistry offers wholesome and flavourful dishes. The menu is segmented into breakfast and lunch & dinner, and the latter is chock-full of familiar favourites such as burgers, pizzas and generous grills.
The drinks menu is carefully curated with a decent cocktail and wine selection, and bottle service for the most discerning of palates.
Location: 22 Fredman Drive, Sandown
Fugazzi
A short stroll down from Mamasamba will bring you to Fugazzi, the new kid on the block for all-day Italian dining. Inspired by the retro Italian diners of ‘80s New York, Fugazzi’s retro-cool leather booths and vintage posters is the perfect invitation to get comfortable and enjoy some hearty cuisine.
Fugazzi’s menu is a celebration of traditional cooking and interesting twists, from antipasto and pasta to quintessential meatball subs. Honourable mention must go to their Napoli-style sourdough pizza, topped with unusual tidbits such as hot honey chicken or braised short rib with jalapeno.
Location: The Zone @ Rosebank