Latin American Food In Joburg

by Saira Lortan

If your taste buds are itching for succulent cuts of meat, bright bursts of lime and chilli, and cocktails with a fiery kick, but your passport is gathering dust in a drawer, we’ve got good news. You don’t need a lengthy wait at Home Affairs or a long-haul flight to enjoy the bold, vibrant flavours of Latin America; you’ll find them right here in Joburg.

Latin American cuisine is rich, colourful, and deeply rooted in celebration. Every dish tells a story of passion and resilience, punctuated by a rich history and culture that goes back centuries. We’ve rounded up the spots bringing those travel-worthy flavours to the City of Gold, so go ahead and cancel that passport renewal appointment. Your Latin American food adventure starts right here at home...and we won't judge you if you consider changing your citizenship.

Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas

Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas in Melrose Arch has been open for three decades, so you know they know their stuff. This restaurant offers more than the exquisite, flame-licked flavours of Brazil; it hums with colour and rhythm, too. The upbeat sound of samba and the sizzle of authentic Brazilian cuisine are a match made in heaven.

Whether you're craving melt-in-your-mouth beef carved straight off the skewer, seafood with a squeeze of lime, or a colourful vegetarian plate bursting with spice, Rodizio Brazilian Grill & Tapas always delivers. A must-try for meat lovers is their famous Meat Rodizio, which consists of a selection of succulent, flame-grilled skewered beef, chicken, lamb, or pork. Not only are the flavours of this dish authentically Brazilian, but the meat is also traditionally carved for you at your table by their skilled gauchos. This food and service will make you so happy, you might as well be dancing in the streets of Rio de Janeiro.

The Library Food Club

This classy restaurant, located in Birdhaven, offers a one-of-a-kind modern Peruvian dining experience. Inspired by Peru’s sun-kissed coastlines and Machu Picchu’s ancient pathways, The Library Food Club brings a plethora of Peruvian cuisine you won’t believe was cooked in Joburg. You can’t visit this magical spot without trying Peru’s beloved ceviche, a traditional dish consisting of cured fish or shellfish marinated in citrus juice and delicious seasonings. There are five different variations to choose from here, but we have a feeling you’ll end up having one of those “I just can’t decide” moments and ordering them all.

Another must-try is the Pisco Sour cocktail, known for its frothy, silky texture. It combines Peru’s national spirit, Pisco (a clear brandy made from distilled grapes), with sweetener and egg white. Don’t let the egg white put you off; this is a “Who wants a second round?” kind of cocktail. Trust us.

Che Argentine Grill

Located in Parkwood, Che Argentine Grill is all about authentic flavours and a welcoming atmosphere. They specialise in Argentine meats cooked the traditional way on an open flame, paired with other classic dishes like smoked provolone cheese and chorizo sausage. One of Argentina’s most-loved delicacies is empanadas: delicious fillings of either meat, chicken, vegetables, or cheese, ensconced in golden-brown pastry, either baked or fried. You’ll need to practice your self-control with these, because you’ll want to order them by the dozen.

Argentina isn't just known for football and food, either; it also produces some of the world’s best wines. Che Argentine Grill specially imports Malbec wine from Argentina, so you can enjoy an authentic tasting experience without the hefty price tag that comes with cross-continental travel.

La Boqueria

Do you fancy trying lots of Latin American cuisine all in one spot? Look no further, La Boqueria in Parktown North is an incredible eatery that provides a little bit of everything. From Argentinian-inspired asado and Peruvian ceviche to Mexican tacos, this is the ultimate spot for Latin American food lovers. One of the most interesting dishes on the menu is the oxtail empanada: a mouthwatering pastry filled with slow-braised pulled oxtail, coriander mojo verde dressing, and beef gravy. It's a tasty new spin on a classic meaty pastry that's been around for longer than anyone can remember.

One of their more traditional Mexican offerings is the Baja taco filled with panko-fried prawns, cabbage and radish slaw, charred pineapple salsa, avocado crema, lime aioli, and coriander. One bite of this, and you'll find yourself reopening Duolingo to learn Spanish.

You could turn your house upside-down looking for your passport, but why bother? With these restaurants, you can take a tour of Latin American food right here in Joburg. We hope you’re not on a diet, because these lip-smacking Latin American dishes are guaranteed to be addictive.