With Heritage Day right around the corner and the weather finally warm enough to braai again, it’s the perfect time to pause and appreciate the jaw-dropping diversity of our nation‘s cuisine. While Joburgers are blessed to have access to restaurants serving up dishes from every continent, it’s only fitting that the spotlight falls on African kitchens this month.
Mama Putt
At Mama Putt, you’ll find all the hearty classics West Africa is famous for. Sit down for lunch in Sunninghill and dig into generous portions of flavourful jollof rice, ofada stew, and grilled fish.
The Venda Pot
Just off the corner of Witkoppen in Paulshof, The Venda Pot highlights the range of traditional South African cuisine. Pile your plate high with pork trotters, chicken feet, rich stews, and grilled meat — but make sure to leave some space for the fluffy dombolo.
Sakhumzi
Best known for their delicious tripe, Sakhumzi is a definite must-try the next time you find yourself in Soweto. Dive into their buffet, served daily from 11:00, and take in the traditional flavours of mogodu, tender stewed meats, and hearty vegetable dishes. There’s no better place to get a genuine taste of Soweto’s soulful cuisine.
Chaf Pozi
For an authentic shisa nyama experience, head to Chaf Pozi in Orlando West, at the base of the Orlando Towers. This lively restaurant and bar combines a braai (our beloved national pastime) with live music and an unforgettable vibe. Pair your favourite cut of grilled meat with traditional sides of pap and chakalaka, and you’ll be full until next week.
Pata Pata
Follow the sound of live music to Pata Pata on Fox Street in Johannesburg’s buzzing Maboneng Precinct. Offering African classics with a modern twist, traditional 7 Colours plates, and Sunday buffets, you’re spoiled for choice here.
1947 on Vilikazi Street
1947 on Vilakazi Street infuses elegance into traditional South African cuisine, while preserving the warm, comforting elements we love so much. Located on the famous Vilakazi Street in Johannesburg, the only street in the world to have housed both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
Hombaze African Cuisine
Curious about Congolese food? Hombaze’s got the goods. With daily sit-down service and a buffet every Sunday, there’s plenty opportunity to explore a whole new array of flavours. Peppered fish, grilled plantain, and yam porridge go great with a beer. Trust us.
Little Addis
If you’re a fan of African cuisine, you know Ethiopian food is rated as some of the best. Now at 41 Stanley, Little Addis serves up a spread of rich, colourful dishes packed with flavour, with a myriad of traditionally vegan dishes for your plant-based friends. Let’s not forget that Ethiopia is famous for their coffee — have a taste, and you’ll quickly understand why.
Berry Foods
Berry Foods in Kempton Park is all about serving you dishes that make you feel like you’re at your Nigerian granny’s house. Meals are prepared with the freshest ingredients and a whole lot of love, so you’re guaranteed to leave with both a full belly and heart.
Traditional African food is all about bold flavour, wholesome ingredients, and recipes passed down through generations. Every plate will share a different story, with one thing remaining constant: there’s no skimping on flavour.
Planning a trip to Soweto? We’ve got your itinerary sorted, with things to do, and even more suggestions on where to grab a bite.
