by Saira Lortan
Are you a Bryanston baddie with a serious appetite? Bryanston’s dining scene has something for every craving, and we’ve been eating our way through the neighbourhood in search of the best plates. From trendy brunch cafés and quick lunch stops to date-night restaurants and high-end dinner destinations, this bustling corner of Joburg is packed with flavour. Here’s our guide to the best restaurants and places to eat in Bryanston right now.
PANTRY by Gemelli
A bougie brunch spot in Bryanston? Yes, please! Not to be confused with Pantry in Rosebank, Pantry by Gemelli is the perfect place if you’re someone who loves having breakfast for dinner. The Pantry branch of their restaurant is an all-day breakfast spot ready to fulfil your breakfast and brunch dreams; enjoy a delectable waffle sandwich or be a little cheeky and have sushi for breakfast, because why not? There’s also something for those who prefer a more classic breakfast option, like fluffy buttermilk flapjacks. One thing's for sure: this elegant restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating is bound to elevate your Joburg brunch experience.
Details: 13a Posthouse Link Centre, Corner Main Road, Bryanston, Sandton | 078 048 1188 | Instagram
Social On Main
Social On Main is the place for you if you’re a social butterfly who also happens to be a foodie; this will totally become your new favourite go-to neighbourhood bar. With seafood, vegetarian and meat dishes on the menu, there’s truly something for everyone. Feeling thirsty? Sip on a fruity cocktail or enjoy a crisp beer on tap. Beyond the food and drinks, this Bryanston restaurant also hosts fun weekly events, including Bottomless Cocktail Sundays, Bingo Saturdays and Friday Happy Hours. Great flavours, good vibes and lively events make it one of the best hangout spots in Bryanston.
Details: 1 Posthouse Centre, Corner Posthouse Street & Main Road, Bryanston | +27 76 609 5585 | [email protected] | Instagram
Ukkō
Ukkō is a stylish Mediterranean-style tapas and sushi spot in Bryanston. They also have an extensive wine list and mixology bar. Ukkō delivers a Mediterranean-inspired dining experience that feels like an escape to sunnier shores. The fresh, flavour-packed tapas are made for sharing; every small plate brings a burst of coastal flair to the table and keeps your taste buds happily travelling from bite to bite. Their speciality item on the menu is sushi rolls, but they have a little something for everyone. If you’re feeling fancy, try their baked camembert with a balsamic dressing, but you can also enjoy a plate of good old grilled chicken wings if you’re not the adventurous type.
Details: Shop U24, Nicolway Shopping Centre, Bryanston, Sandton | 010 335 0770 | [email protected] | Instagram
Parvati's
Bunny chow in Bryanston that's just as good as what you'd find in Durban? We wish we'd known about this sooner. Parvati's is an Indian restaurant that offers home-cooked-style meals full of flavour. No need to hop on a flight to KZN to enjoy an authentic Durban-style bunny chow; this delightful hidden gem has you absolutely sorted. If bunny chow isn’t your thing, you can still indulge in other authentic Indian dishes like lamb curry or chicken biryani. Light meals like salads, toasties, and pastas are also available; they know not everyone can handle the heat, shame.
Details: 274 Bryanston Drive, Bryanston, Sandton | 011 460 8940 | [email protected] | Instagram
Gather Coffee
Are you a fitness freak who also happens to be a caffeine addict? We think Gather Coffee might just be your new home away from home. They offer a simple yet well-rounded menu of coffee, juices, iced teas, and milkshakes, while being a popular hub for active communities in the area. Gather Coffee marks the starting point for the Wake Up Jozi running club, which hosts a 5km early-morning run on the first Saturday of every month. If you’re allergic to your snooze button and can’t resist a delicious cuppa, visit this ultra-fit spot for a pre- or post-run coffee!
Details: Payne Road, Bryanston, Sandton | 060 486 2872 | [email protected] | Instagram
Forking Good
Wood-fired pizza, sizzling steaks, cocktails that slap...Forking Good is exactly what it sounds like: a flavour experience. They've got breakfasts you'd be happy to have for all three meals of the day, and pastas that would make an Italian tremble. The words 'bland' and 'boring' are not part of Forking Good’s vocabulary; they promise to provide good food, cheeky cocktails, and great vibes every day. This is the kind of place where you’ll walk in saying, “Just one drink,” and find yourself ordering another round (and a pizza!) four hours later. There's a reason they recently made it onto our list of Joburg's hottest new restaurants!
Details: 298 Main Road, Bryanston, Sandton | 064 748 8019 | [email protected] | Instagram
Salivating yet? We thought so. From bougie breakfasts to bunny chows, Bryanston has something tasty for everyone. Check out one of these spots next time you’re in the area.
