Spots
No matter the occasion, we’ve got the perfect spot to celebrate.
Joburg
The Marabi Club 47 Sivewright Ave, New Doornfontein 010 591 2879
With a jazzy ambience, live music and a range of tapas-style food offerings, Marabi is a treat for many of Joburg’s young professionals. The tuna ceviche with grilled onions (R90) is excellent, as well as the marinated mushrooms with ricotta cheese (R90). Litchi sorbet with elderflower soda (R70) adds to the attraction.
pigalle 1 Corlett Dr, Melrose Arch, Melrose 011 684 2711 Characterised by its chic bar and private dining balconies that overlook the Melrose Arch Piazza, Pigalle is the perfect place for those celebratory occasions that call for a trendy yet elegant vibe. Set aside a few hours to indulge in the sesame seed Norwegian salmon served with fresh avo (R110) and the Mediterranean kingklip topped with feta cheese and olives (R265). Add a chocolate fondant (R89) to the end, and it’s a night to remember.
Che argentine Grill 303 Fox St, Jeppestown 011 614 0264 Che is popular for its authentic Argentinean dishes, and happygo-lucky and relaxing mood that’s perfect for entertaining both big and small groups looking to party in an intimate setting. We enjoyed the beef empanadas (R30), the aranita steak (R235) and the flan with dulce de leche (R54) for dessert.
Durban
9Th avenue bistro 9th Ave, Avonmore Centre, Morningside 031 312 9134 When it comes to ambience, music and food, 9th Avenue Bistro rules. Enjoy classic and contemporary cuisine cooked with care, like crispy fried calamari (R110) and slow-roasted pork belly (R110) to start. For mains, we loved the crispy duck (R225).
republik 217 Florida rd, Morningside 082 877 4614 If you want a celebration with an electric atmosphere, Republik is the place to be. Enjoy deep-fried halloumi bites (R60) and spicy calamari (R65), then dive into the Republik 8.0 burger (R100) or chicken bunny chow (R120) – incredible value for money.
The Grill room 2 Lighthouse rd, the oyster box hotel, Umhlanga rocks 031 514 5000 Want to celebrate like a celeb? Treat yourself to dinner in The Grill Room, renowned for its fine dining reputation and outstanding fare. Start with the roasted parsley prawns (R190) or poached crayfish (R220). Then tuck into the lemon grass kingklip (R290), which is prepared to perfection.
Cape Town
bilboa 1 Victoria rd, the Promenade, Camps bay 021 286 5155 Relaxed, cool and social, this ocean-view spot stands out – and for good reason. Start with the grilled halloumi (R95), followed by the swordfish (R175). Into shellfish? The crispy prawns (R110) are a great option, too.
upper bloem 65 Main rd, green Point 083 886 8167 Upper Bloem will surprise the unsuspecting diner with a sensory experience like no other. Go for their full-course menu which includes nine tapas of Cape Malay cuisine, like hake sandwiches and salomies (R395 per person), and koesisters with cream (R35).
arcade 152 bree St, CBD 060 861 0511 This popular resto-bar serves delicious food by day and turns into the most talked about dance floor by night. Go for the steak prego roll (R115) or G-JO pizza (R100). End with great music and an Instagram of the famous purple fluorescent light.